How to Groom a Dog with Anxiety
Have you ever had a dog that was fearful of grooming or going to the groomer? What can you do if your dog flees and hides under the bed whenever you bring out the brush or the nail trimmer or begins to shiver as you pull up in front of the groomer?
Dogs demonstrate nervousness in various ways; they may pant, whine, shiver, hide if feasible, or even become violent. A dog fleeing or becoming violent is particularly difficult to groom and a threat to himself. Specific grooming instruments are sharp, and an uncooperative dog may accidentally hurt itself. If the dog bites or scratches in fear, they risk injuring the groomer. In either case, your dog will be unpopular with the groomer!
If you’re grooming your dog, his anxiousness may make the job substantially more difficult and unpleasant. Finding ways to reduce or eliminate dogs anxiety while grooming is crucial for everyone’s safety and for acclimating your dog to the grooming process. Numerous activities may be taken to make grooming a scared dog more manageable and safe for all involved.
10 Things To Do Before Taking a Nervous Dog to the Groomer
Is your dog in a tense state? Make arrangements for the groomer’s visit. You can even reduce tension quickly before your next grooming appointment by following these simple steps.
Massage
When a dog visits a groomer, an expert will clean all sections of her body, even sensitive spots. It will be necessary to handle her ears, genital area, paws, and glands. You can prepare your dog for this by giving him a full-body massage. Pet your dog gently from head to toe. Play with her paws and ensure that her toes are spaced apart. Scratch her earlobes and play with her ears. The first step is to ensure that your dog is accustomed to being handled.
Following that, massage her on an elevated table. It replicates her experience at a pet grooming salon. With a scared dog, take small steps. Anything you can do to ensure your dog’s comfort is a good idea. Numerous soothing language treats or a blanket will contribute to her favorable association with these strange events.
Bathing, Brushing, and Supplies
Expose your dog to as many grooming sensations as possible. At first, recreate these experiences in little increments at home. After that, take your dog to the groomer when she is ready.
If you feel comfortable bathing your dog at home, give this a try. Daily brushing is also beneficial for your dog. Assemble as many sights and sounds as possible for them to become accustomed to. Turn on a blow dryer to make her aware of the sound and reward her with a treat. Hold a set of nail trimmers alongside her paws without trimming them, and then give her a treat.
It may sound extravagant, but it will benefit an anxious dog.
Make Sure She’s Plenty Exercised
“A tired dog is a happy dog” is entirely accurate. Not only do dogs have a natural desire to explore the world by peeing on everything, but they also require plenty of exercise. Make sure your dog has gotten a walk before taking it to the groomer. It will provide her with an opportunity to relieve herself and expend any nervous energy.
Find an Understanding Groomer
Not every groomer possesses the resources or professional abilities necessary to work with a severely frightened dog. Inform the groomer if your dog exhibits signs of nervousness or hostility. Specific groomers specialize in grooming dogs with unique needs.
Training Visit
Once you’ve found a groomer with whom you and your dog feel comfortable, inquire about scheduling a dog training visit. You can wander around with your dog during this grooming session and gradually acclimate them. Your dog will be able to see the grooming facilities, hear the loud nail clippers and blow dryers, and practice standing on a grooming table.
It also allows your dog to meet the groomer. A responsible groomer will spend time getting to know your dog and assisting her in relaxing. A groomer can help in coaxing her anxiousness away during this time.
Special Equipment for a Nervous Dog
Dogs suffering from anxiety are somewhat prevalent. Over the years, specific grooming supplies have been developed to accommodate a frightened dog’s grooming routine.
It is why Scaredy Cut was created. Scaredy Cut blades are serrated and feature seven comb attachments ranging from 1/2 to 1 or #1 to #6. It enables the groomer to trim a dog’s coat with the same precision as an electric blade. This silent clipper enables groomers to trim the coat of a nervous dog more gently.
Aromatherapy
Numerous pet salons have incorporated aromatherapy into their treatments. Aromatherapy works for dogs by conditioning them. You may teach your dog to link relaxing scents with a state of tranquillity. Aromatherapy dog shampoos are often made with botanicals such as lavender and chamomile, as well as essential vitamins. These formulations are intended to generate a state of tranquillity.
Related Question
Do groomers administer sedatives to dogs?
Groomers are not permitted to sedate a dog lawfully. If the groomer is employed by a veterinary hospital, the veterinarian may authorize sedation, which is administered by a technician. In the event of oral drugs given by a veterinarian, the owner may administer them to the pet prior to a grooming appointment, as they take around an hour to take effect.
