Why? Brushing your pet regularly at home is a great bonding tool and, most importantly, helps them become acclimated to being handled. The more you practice with your puppy the more confident you both will become.

When? The time to work with your puppy is when you know they do not have to use the potty and when they don’t have an abundance of energy. After a good play session or walk is usually best.

Where? The ground is your pup’s playground. If you get on the floor they naturally want to play and jump on you. If you put them on a higher surface they will be more attentive to you, and it will introduce them to the grooming table experience! Some breeds are too large to be put on high surfaces at home. However, for small puppies, a towel on top of a washer or dryer will make a good home grooming spot. Be sure to always have one hand on them for safety. If you have a rambunctious puppy, it will be a good idea to have an additional person help the first few times you work with them. In time, you should be able to brush your dog on the floor or on your lap as they mature into adults.

How? Do very short sessions to begin with. Your first session should be about getting your puppy used to being on the table. You can pick up the front and back paws, lift up their tail, and look in their ears. Give them lots of praise and treats for being good. The next session you can introduce the comb and/or brush. Praise them for smelling it, but tell them “No” if they try to bite or chew. I usually begin brushing the back legs and slowly work my way up to the head, but you can start wherever is best for you! Tips for combing your dog’s face: Before doing anything to your puppies face, teach them the “Be Still” command. Gently hold the hair under the chin (this is where groomers hold when scissoring around the face).
Say “Be Still” in a calm voice.
As soon as they stop wiggling their face you let go.
Have a huge celebration, give them lots of treats and kisses
Puppy should quickly catch on to this after a few times and then you can proceed with some light combing

Remember! All puppies are different. Take little baby steps if necessary. Always be upbeat and give lots of praise for the behavior you want. Have fun!

Going to the Pet Groomer

When? As soon as they have their vaccines. 12 to 16 weeks is a good age to begin.

Who? It is important for all dogs to become accustomed to the grooming process. Medium to long coated breeds require regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. Shorter coated dogs usually end up going to the groomer to help minimize shedding.

What to Expect

The first few times is all about a good experience! They get loved on and usually minimal trimming is done. They will get a bath and blow dry, toenail trim, brush out, ear cleaning, and feet trim. They are getting used to a new person, place, and funny looking equipment that makes odd noises. We want to keep things short and fun! Depending on the puppy, I recommend they come every 3 weeks while they are young so they have consistent interaction with grooming. Then, we start stretching the length of time between sessions as they grow. What they learn now, as puppies, will help establish habits of good behavior for the rest of their lives.