Puppy’s First Grooming
Congratulations!! You have a new puppy! Enjoy!!
Come see us so we can help you get some grooming tools for at home. We know which brush and comb would work best with your dog’s coat.
Most puppies should see the groomer after they’ve had their second round of vaccinations, no later than 16 weeks. At this time they are trusting, and willing to let strangers handle them, and will acclimate to strange noises and sensations comparatively easily.
A new puppy’s first groom is very important and should be a pleasant and pleasurable experience. You can help your puppy get used to the grooming procedures at home by teaching them the basics. Gently touch your puppy all over every day, playing with and massaging the feet and face. To get your puppy used to the dryer, blow on him or use a hand-held blow dryer (no warmer than medium heat! and keep the dryer moving, not pointed at one spot) You can use a metal spoon and just very gently tap their nails. Don’t forget the back paws! When your puppy is comfortable being handled, you are ready to begin brushing and combing. Doing this at least once a day will help your new puppy get used to being handled. Of course have lots of yummy small treats handy too!
The first grooming appointment might be quite lengthy, as you want the puppy to feel comfortable and trust the groomer. With a gentle touch, the puppy will learn that grooming is an enjoyable experience and not something to fear.
What happens during your puppy’s groom?
Your puppy will be thoroughly brushed to remove any knots or tangles. Next the groomer might trim the nails, clean the ears and even brush your puppy’s teeth. Now it is time for a warm bath, where the puppy is shampooed and conditioned, followed by towel drying and a warm blow dryer to prevent any chills.
Once your puppy is dried, it is time for the groomer to start the haircut. This can be the most difficult of all tasks and we always recommend starting slowly for a puppy’s first haircut.
Instead of doing an all-over haircut, have the groomer do a face trim, feet trim and sanitary cut. This allows the puppy to get used to the sights and sounds of a grooming salon without being overwhelmed. You can then bring your puppy back in three to four weeks for a body trim.
We are here to help you, as we know it as hard to leave your puppy for the first time, but rest assured, we love to groom puppies and we will give them lots of T.L.C.!
