Dogs and anxiety sometimes go hand in hand. About 70% of all dogs have experienced nervous behavior to some degree. Out of all the different types of phobias that a puppy can experience, 11% of them agree that new experiences are pretty scary.
If your dog has never been to the groomer, keeping them calm while they're shampooed and brushed will prove a unique challenge. On top of being a new experience, the equipment also produces loud noises that dogs tend to hate.
You can try to wear your dog out before their pet grooming appointment or offer them treats. Choosing an understanding professional groomer is also a plus. Keep reading to learn more.
Choose an Understanding Groomer
The thing that scares puppies about dog grooming the most is the idea of an unfamiliar human touching them. Most professional groomers know that, which is why they do their best to accommodate anxious pups.
Before taking your dog to a salon, ask the groomer about their experience with dogs with anxiety. You should also talk to them about your dog's unique needs so they can prepare.
Of course, some dogs can't be accommodated. If this is the case for your puppy, talk to your vet. They may be able to prescribe medication that will keep them calm during their grooming session.
Wear Your Dog Out
It will be hard for your dog to be stressed while they're exhausted. Play with them before you take them in for their grooming appointment.
If your dog is a particularly energetic breed, you may need to double your efforts. Take them on a long walk or spend a few hours tossing a frisbee around outside.
Make the Car Ride Less Stressful
Not all dogs enjoy car rides. In fact, for some, getting in a car is about as stressful as going to a groomer or the vet. Plan your route ahead of time to ensure that you don't pass any scary animals or sights.
You can also try giving your dog a chew toy or playing relaxing music to distract them from the sound of your car engine. Take a few test drives around the neighborhood to get them used to being in your vehicle.
If nothing you do seems to calm your dog's car anxiety, walk to the salon if you live close enough. Not only will this cut out the stressful ride, but it will also let your dog expend some of their pent-up energy.
Familiarize Your Dog With the Grooming Equipment
If you have some time to spare, try to get your pet to their grooming appointment early. Ask the groomer to let your dog sniff the equipment that they'll be using.
If you're grooming your own dog, turn on the clippers to let them get used to the sound. Run the trimmer across their fur so that they can become familiar with the sensation.
If you're giving your dog a brushing, gently run the bristles through their fur at first to introduce them to the idea.
Offer Them Treats
Dogs respond well to rewards. Even if they're shaking, as long as they're standing still as they can and not fighting the groomer, give them a treat. This will cause them to think of going to the groomer as a good thing after a while.
If you're bathing your dog at home, try the peanut butter on the shower wall trick. Your dog will be so busy with their treat that they won't notice they're standing in water.
You should also consider giving them anti-anxiety treats about an hour before their grooming appointment. This should keep them calm during the entire ordeal.
Stop When the Grooming Becomes Too Much
In the case of most groomers, if a dog becomes too anxious, it will either take a break or stop the session for the day. You should do the same when grooming your dog at home.
If you try to force them through their bath and trim, you'll undo all the good you did while trying to keep them calm. Anxious dogs can also become overheated.
Create a Soothing Atmosphere
Turning on the classical radio station may distract a dog from the loud sound of the trimmer.
You can also try dimming the lights. Not many people respond well to bright fluorescents in their faces. The same goes for dogs.
Get Your Dog Used to Being Handled
Again, dogs don't like being handled by strangers. That's why you have to get them used to the idea.
Of course, that doesn't mean you should let some random person on the street pick up your dog. Build trust between yourself and your pet by laying on the floor with them and casually brushing them. This will make them less anxious when someone else does the same.
Try to Stay Calm
Dogs can tell when you're feeling nervous. If you're scared about how your pet is going to react during their grooming session, they'll become anxious as well.
Try to stay as calm as possible, and don't make a big deal out of going to the groomer. It shouldn't be any different than heading to the park.
Dogs and Anxiety Don't Have to Go Hand in Hand
Dogs and anxiety tend to go hand in hand, but it doesn't have to be that way. If you get your pet used to being handled and wear them out before their grooming appointment, they may not fight against being brushed and bathed.
It also helps to choose an understanding groomer who's willing to accommodate your pet. We offer a full-service treatment that your furry friend is sure to love! Go here to book your reservation today!