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Grooming Puppies

Grooming A Puppy

Early in life a puppy should learn that grooming can be a pleasant experience. A puppy is easy to handle, and in a few months, with the proper training, he will be used to regular grooming. Begin with short grooming sessions. Reassure the puppy and praise him. As you repeat the daily grooming, accustom the puppy to opening his mouth for inspection and having his ears and paws handled. Later, when his teeth and ears need cleaning and his nails clipped, he won’t resist this care.

You may acquire a puppy or a young dog who resists grooming. Chances are, he had a bad experience and he will have to be shown, with considerable patience on your part, that there is nothing to fear.

Establish A Grooming Routine

While there is no set time that is best to groom a dog, it is not a good idea to handle any dog, especially a young puppy immediately after he has eaten. Nor can a young puppy or even an older dog be expected to stand quietly for grooming when he has to go outside to relieve himself.

If the puppy tends to resist grooming, avoid chasing the puppy. This has only negative effects: the puppy may become even more resistant to grooming or he may interpret chasing as an invitation to play.

Plan time for grooming when you can give the dog your full attention. The place should be one that is convenient for you, has good light and is free from distractions. Have your grooming tools assembled and within easy reach.

Establish and follow a specific order in grooming and follow this order. This helps ensure that the dog will be completely groomed and no part of the routine will be missed.

Placing the dog on a table usually makes the job easier. Choose a sturdy table which places the dog at a comfortable height for you. Place a rubber non-skid mat on the table to give your dog secure footing. If it is feasible, you may want to do what professional groomers do. Place a mirror where you can observe your dog from another perspective as you groom him.

If you have several dogs or groom dogs for show, you may prefer a professional grooming table available through pet supply stores and catalogs.

After each grooming thoroughly wash, rinse and dry the grooming equipment.