Congrats on Your New Puppy - Grooming Edition
When should I start the grooming process for a puppy?
As soon as possible! We like to see puppies as early as 3 months old so that they can start being desensitized to the grooming process and be less likely to give their groomer issues as they get older and bigger.
How often should my dog be groomed?
All dogs should see their groomer at least every 6-8 weeks to ensure grooming becomes routine for them and they are less anxious for it. Grooming includes things like ear cleaning and nail trimming which should be done regularly. For higher maintenance breeds (doodles, poodles, bichons, etc.), we recommend a 4-6 week grooming schedule as they tend to be more susceptible to matting.
Grooming schedules can also be based on the length of your dog’s haircuts and the level of proper maintenance being done at home. Grooming does not always need to be a haircut, even a proper bath and brush out at your grooming salon can improve your dog’s health and hygiene and prevent things like matting and impacted coats!
Additionally, your dog’s groomer may find or notice things on your dog that you may not have since you see them everyday and they can let you know if they are a cause for concern.
What should I be doing at home in between my puppy's grooms?
This will largely depend on the breed you have! A short-haired dog like a beagle will require much less work than a long-haired dog.
Your dog needs to be properly brushed regularly (ideally a few times a week) to ensure their skin and coat health are good. Longer-haired breeds will need much more intensive brushing. We highly recommend reviewing videos on Youtube on a technique called “line brushing” to ensure you are properly brushing your dog and getting all the way down to the skin!
If you have a long-haired dog and you want to bathe them at home, make sure to thoroughly brush them out before AND after their bath to prevent mats from forming. Water and soap will tighten mats on your dog. We recommend investing in a high-velocity dryer to use at home on your dog so that they can get used to the drying process, you can properly blow their coat out and you can prevent any hotspots from forming on damp areas.
Nail trimming should ideally be done at least once a month so if you are not visiting your groomer, make sure you are still keeping up with nail trims at home! There is a vein inside your dog’s nail that grows with the nail so the longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to recede and shorten your dog’s nails. Dogs ears should be cleaned 2-4 times a month, as needed.
What brushes should I be using on my dog?
Why is my dog uncooperative for grooming?
Grooming can be stressful for dogs, some more than others. This can depend on a variety of factors like: frequency and consistency of grooms, frequency of matting, desensitization at home, training, genetics, prior experiences, etc.
You can work with your dog at home to ensure they are set up for success. We also recommend working with a professional dog trainer if you are having difficulties with your pup.
Our Groomers are here to help!
They want to see you and your dog succeed and enjoy the grooming process!
Be sure to ask your groomer any and all questions you may have regarding your dog’s breed and grooming needs to ensure they are all met. Your dog’s groomer should be your support system!