December 17, 2009
Need some help with dog grooming, please?
I have a Westie who is in serious need of some grooming. He needs a bath, his nails trimmed and at 7 months-his first hair cut. I've given him a bath and taken him to trim his nails before but I've never taken him to get a cut or to the groomers. I want him to look good for Christmas so I will take him to a groomer to do everything. He has a small problem though…he tends to nip and want to bite if someone is touching him in a way he doesn't like, and I'm positive he will be scared of scissors since he's never had a cut before. I don't want to cause problems with the groomers so how can I handle this? Should the groomers be experienced with different reactions from dogs? Will they provide him with a muzzle if he needs it or do I need to bring one? I don't want a law suit along with the groomers bill! Any suggestions on how to make his first grooming experience a good one would be appreciated 
Groomers deal with snappy dogs all the time, trust me.
Tell them before hand that he will need a muzzle/that he tends to bite/nip and mention it's his first time.
They will supply the muzzle.
Just take him in, drop him off, pick him up. Don't fuss over him, it will probably add to his anxiety.
Good luck (:
A freshly groomed dog is amazing, haha.
I love when my pup comes home from the groomer.
Filed under Westie Grooming by admin
Comments on Need some help with dog grooming, please? »
Groomers deal with snappy dogs all the time, trust me.
Tell them before hand that he will need a muzzle/that he tends to bite/nip and mention it's his first time.
They will supply the muzzle.
Just take him in, drop him off, pick him up. Don't fuss over him, it will probably add to his anxiety.
Good luck (:
A freshly groomed dog is amazing, haha.
I love when my pup comes home from the groomer.
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groomers will know how to deal with grumpy dogs but if I am you, I would bring a muzzle along and then put in on my dog prior handing to the groomer.
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My groomer will not touch a dog without a muzzle. Most dogs do not like strangers. Also there are slf serve grooming places. They will charge you a small amount and let give you advise on how to self wash or groom you dog. GOOD LUCK!
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Self
They will muzzle him if he is seriously trying to bite them, but usually groomers have a confidence about them that the dog feels (as Cesar Milan says, "a positive energy") and they rarely get bit, so don't worry, he will be fine, give him some positive energy when you bring him in, say nice things to him and act happy and excited when you bring him in to their shop, otherwise he will pick up on your nervousness,just like human babies do,they follow cues from their parents. Parents talk negatively about going to the dentist, then they act scared themselves and their kids cry and go nuts because of their parents attitudes and actions, it is the same thing.
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They have a muzzle and are used to all kinds of dogs. Don't worry.
They want you to come back so will do all they can to make it a happy experience for you and your dog.
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Warn the groomer up front.
In my experience, most dogs have a tendency to nip when being groomed for the first time - especially by a stranger! Unless he viciously attacks the groomer and causes serious damage, it should be no problem. The groomer will be aware and take precautions, and if necessary likely has a lil' muzzle that would just fit him until he gets used to the idea of clipping and trimming.
Good luck!
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Groomed dogs
We use muzzles when necessary, sometimes just taking the time to talk to the dog and reassure them does the trick. Terriers can be tempermental about thier nails. We are professionals and are trained to deal with different situations. Talk to people and find out about thier groomer. Word of mouth is the best reccommendation a groomer can get. Trust them and if there are any problems have them call you/ Sometimes the owner can stay with the dog in the beginning to calm them. Good luck with him. A well groomed dog is a joy to look at. And they love the attention.
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30 yrs grooming
Honestly, your Westie will probably react differently towards the groomer than towards you. Groomers know how to handle them and yes, they will muzzle if absolutely necessary. Let the groomer know it is a first haircut and he can be a pill so they can work that into the schedule to allow for more time. Honestly, drop him off with NO hard feelings and pick him up full of excitement. He will learn that this is ok and you will come back.
I groom only difficult dogs that other want to sedate…Proper handling is the key and not being in a rush to get them done.
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Just tell the groomer beforehand. We are very used to doing 1st time clips & fearful dogs. You need to get an appt. now as all groomers get booked up for the holidays quickly so if you want before holidays, call tomorrow. Scissors usually not the issue but the clipper noise & the dryer upset most dogs the 1st time or two til they learn the routine & sounds. As hard as it is to believe for the owners, their pets behave much better for us since they know they can't get their way like they do with their owners. Groomer wouldn't sue over a simple bite either. A vicious dog which attacked & did serious damage might be a different story especially if the owner didn't warn the groomer of dog's behavior.
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31 yr grooming
Dog grooming may sound simple, but it is more involved than just washing and drying your canine friend. There are some important health benefits that can be obtained by either learning the proper techniques or visiting a professional dog groomer on a regular basis. Not only do you address their fur but you also address their paws, ears, and other important senses.
Dog Grooming Ins and Outs - http://www.dog-pound.net/dog-grooming.htm
Dog Grooming Tips - http://www.dog-pound.net/tips-for-dog-grooming.htm
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