If you prefer to leave the dirty work of nail trimming and anal gland trimming to someone else, you may think your dog’s grooming job is over when you drop him off at the groomer. Let the groomer worry about mats in the fur and unruly behavior in the tub, because that’s their job, right?

Most estheticians beg to differ.

No matter how big the puppy at the table is, grooming them can be a daunting task. From bathing, drying, brushing and combing, to cleaning ears, eyes and sanitary areas, and finally, cutting the dog’s hair perfectly by hand to make your dog beautiful.

Grooming a dog can be stressful for many dogs who don’t like physical control. A nervous or scared dog doesn’t like to be touched, making the job more challenging for your groomer – and more unpleasant for your dog.

The following dog groomer tips will help your pup feel comfortable during the grooming process and will help him make the most of his time at the grooming salon. With patience and training, grooming day will be the equivalent of a spa trip for your dog, plus your groomer will appreciate your cooperation with your dog!

Start combing right away

Regardless of the breed, every dog needs some grooming in their life, even if it’s just a bath or nail clipping. If you can get your dog comfortable with grooming early in life, you can make the process stress-free.

Get your dog used to using his paws, ears and tail to control your dog. Before you start putting water in for the bath, have him check the tub and the dog shampoo (and give him some reward for doing so).

You can even take your puppy to the groomer for a few low-pressure “get-to-know-you” sessions before the real training takes place. Many pet owners wait too long to take their pets to the groomer; this can make your pets become very scared and unable to enjoy their time.

Getting your dog used to the extra bathing steps

Bath time with your dog can be optimized by adding two products: a simple brush brush, like the ConairPRO Pet-It Boar Bristle Brush, and a conditioner, like the Isle of Dogs Silk Coat Conditioner for dogs.

Bathing with a brush can help remove dirt from the coat, and for better health exfoliation can also help remove dead skin and prevent mats from forming.

She also recommends using a conditioner, even for the short-haired variety. This shampoo works to remove dirt and excess oil, keeping the skin and coat clean but porous. This conditioner shrinks the pores and the hair shaft, preventing tangles.

Dog Maintenance

If possible, daily dog maintenance will make your dog feel more comfortable when grooming.

Dogs that are not groomed regularly are more likely to have more challenging mats and tangles, which may result in the groomer needing to shave the hair rather than cut your teddy bear’s coat as short as you would like.

If you spend a few minutes a day grooming your dog, your dog is more likely to leave some hair on your dog.

In addition, grooming tangled fur can be uncomfortable and increase the amount of time a dog spends at the dinner table. It is recommended that pet parents should use a smooth brush first, a large, stiff pet slicker, and then a fine-tooth pet comb.

Prepare for a bathroom break in advance

While your pet may be a little impatient to get to the groomer, think how bad it would be if they still had to go to the bathroom.

Most busy salons are fully booked throughout the day, which means it may not be possible for your groomer to take your dog to the bathroom with her. Your pet should be changed once before arriving at the salon.

Don’t hang around

Unless the groomer explicitly asks you to stay and help with your pet, most salons will not, and do not, allow owners to stay and help or watch during the grooming process.

Even though you may think your presence will calm your dog during grooming, being in the room may make your dog more anxious. Your dog may move around the table trying to get to you, which makes the process even more dangerous for him and your groomer, especially when sharp scissors are involved.

If you trust your groomer, know that although your pet may feel anxious when you arrive, they will be much calmer without you there. It will also help them bond with their groomer without having to look to you for comfort.

Stay relaxed

Many pet owners walk into grooming salons saying how much their dogs hate grooming and apologizing for having to bring them in. This makes the dog feel scared and nervous – not a good way to start a good day.

When you’re going to the groomer, don’t act like you’re sending your dog off to suffer, stay upbeat. If you’ve followed the other secrets to making the dog grooming process stress-free, spending time with your groomer should be a pleasant experience for your dog.

Keeping your pet in a relaxed and excited state will make the entire grooming process less stressful for both pet and owner.