How to Groom a Dog with Anxiety

How to Groom a Dog with Anxiety
Grooming Schedule, Pet Health
Anxiety in dogs appears somewhat like it appears in humans. But of course, they can speak it out. That’s why some dogs express their unease through barking, whining or crying. Others might shake/shiver uncontrollably, show bad behavior or avoid you.
The reason behind your pet’s anxiety during grooming sessions may not be immediately apparent. It could be due to discomfort or pain, feeling overwhelmed by scents and sensations or a past traumatic experience.
First, let’s discuss the pain points…
What Are the Challenges of Grooming an Anxious Dog?
It's possible that your dog may have had experiences in the past such as getting their nails clipped short or experiencing discomfort from clippers. If this has happened, it's important to work on rebuilding their trust for grooming sessions.
Some dogs may simply feel uneasy in new environments or around people. Whereas others may not enjoy being handled during grooming sessions especially in an unfamiliar setting, especially with someone they don't know well.
Well, grooming a dog can be challenging whether you are doing it at home or getting help from professional grooming services in Dubai. These challenges lead to:
- Physical stress: Dealing with an anxious dog during grooming can be physically stressful, especially if the dog is resistant or tries to escape again and again.
- Emotional strain: Dealing with a scared dog can take a mental toll especially when the dog is upset or in pain.
- Time limits: Working under strict time limitations while grooming a dog can add pressure and stress.
- Likely to lose focus: It can be challenging to focus when you are concerned about the dog’s anxiety or facing distractions.
Tips & Tricks to Tackle Anxious Dogs During Grooming
· Observe Your Pet
When grooming your pet, watch for any body language or weird sounds. You should address the signs of anxiety earlier, otherwise it will worsen their distress.
If your puppy is feeling scared or nervous, professional groomers have the expertise to use techniques that can help your furry friend relax.
Also, consider taking your dog for a walk to the groomer if possible. A brisk walk can help release any built-up anxiety and allow your dog to arrive at the grooming salon feeling composed and self-assured.
· Take Care of The Sensitive Areas
For dogs, grooming can be quite nerve-wracking, as it involves touching the sensitive areas on their bodies, like their paws, belly, ears and more.
It's ideal to gently touch and massage these areas when you’re the dog is feeling somewhat relaxed.
· Use Hearing Protection Tools
During grooming sessions, your furry friend is exposed to potentially distressing stimuli such as noises from hair dryers, electric shears, running water, and other animals (their sound and smell).
Loud noises can be especially distressing for pets who are not used to such sounds. One way is to give them over-the-head hearing protection tools for relief.
These tools are designed to protect your pet’s ears from strange noises and cold weather. While they can help ease your pet’s stress, they may not completely eliminate anxiety.
When using such tools during grooming, it's important to consider the need for ear washing, shampooing, drying and cleaning.
· Treats Are the Way to Go
Offering treats/biscuits is ideal for reducing anxiety during grooming sessions. Although treats may not tone down salon noises completely, they can offer some distraction.
· Remember, Be Positive & Be Rewarding Towards Your Dog!
When grooming a dog, it's crucial to stay composed and patient. If they start acting or show signs of anxiety, it's essential to keep your cool and take pauses as needed for them to calm down.
Using comforting words such as "good job buddy" and "you're doing great" can help ease their stress. By staying upbeat and supportive throughout the grooming or bathing process, your dog will likely feel more at ease.
This leads to our next point…
· Take Breaks If Needed
It's essential to take breaks as needed and not force your dog or cat if they show signs of fear or discomfort during grooming.
Providing them with water, treats or a short walk before resuming can help them relax. Try to create a positive bond with the animal while grooming.
· Lastly, Introduce Grooming Tools Slowly
One of the basic reasons for anxiety in pets during grooming is the tools used. Tools such as blow dryers, scissors, clippers and nail trimmers are a nightmare for some pets.
To help ease your pet’s anxiety, it's best to introduce these tools slowly if they seem nervous about them.
Here’s a tip…
Start by showing the grooming tools to your pet without using them. Let them explore and sniff at their pace while offering pats and treats to keep them calm.
Once your dog is comfortable with the sight and smell of the tools, start using them. For example, take a moment to brush or trim your pet’s hair before rewarding them with a treat and words of encouragement.
As your pet becomes more relaxed, you can increase the duration and intensity of the grooming session gradually.
Also, introducing your puppy to grooming at an early age can show them that visiting the groomer is an enjoyable part of life.
FAQs
How to calm a nervous dog for grooming?
Here’s how you can calm a nervous dog for grooming:
- Massaging your dog can have a soothing effect on their mental health.
- Familiarize your dog with car trips if he/she is fearful of car rides.
- Start by brushing or massaging a dog and let them explore and sniff the grooming tools.
- Consider using aromatherapy or calming aids to ease your dog’s nerves during grooming.
- Using a neck restraint or harness can help keep the dog secure during grooming.
- Lastly, providing a static mat (that doesn’t move easily) on the grooming table can also enhance comfort. This way, you can avoid resistance from the animal.
How to groom a traumatized dog?
For grooming a traumatized dog, go for the desensitization techniques. They can help in keeping your traumatized dog calm when being handled in different ways. Also, when preparing your dog for a grooming session, it's helpful to adapt them to being handled the same way at home.
Consider giving your friend a treat as a reward during or right after giving them hints for a bath. To familiarize your pet with grooming tools like nail clippers or blow dryers, run them, let your dog sniff them and then reward them with treats. Over time, the dog will become used to these sounds that once caused fear and realize there's nothing to be afraid of.
How do groomers deal with difficult dogs?
Dealing with difficult dogs during grooming requires patience and caution. It's important not to end a session if the dog is showing signs of aggression. The professional groomers at Barkoo & Co wait until the dog is calm and cooperative before ending the session. Keeping the dog against your body using a neck restraint or collar can help maintain control during grooming.
What is the best sedative for dogs’ grooming?
For dogs undergoing grooming sessions, it's essential to consult the vet before giving them any medications. Sedatives such as diazepam, acepromazine, gabapentin or fluoxetine may be recommended by the vet based on the needs of your dog. Usually, general anesthesia is also given in some situations. This approach aims to create a grooming experience for your friend, leading to decreased anxiety over time as they become more comfortable with the process.
Why Professional Grooming is Important for Anxious Dog?
At Barkoo & Co, we take pride in offering luxury bubble bath for nervous dogs that require gentle handling and special attention. We are more than a regular grooming salon—we are a place where your furriend can receive the affection and care they truly deserve.