Grooming, from most dogs' perspectives, is anything but fun. They have to endure the dreaded B-A-T-H, the noise of the dryer, clippers buzzing near their ears and other sensitive places, and standing still when they'd rather just escape. Most groomers have precious little time to do anything but get the job done; however, grooming doesn't have to mean drudgery for the dog.

Some grooming salons are going spa, offering massages and facials to relax your dog and make her grooming experience one she'll love! Make your dog's grooming experience one to enjoy for both of you and you'll find a more cooperative and relaxed dog. You'll feel better grooming your dog without the struggle you may normally have.

Rewards

Start out positive. Play for a little while before grooming. Smile and talk in a high happy tone. Give your dog lots of pets and praise. If you call your dog to you and immediately begin the work of grooming, your dog soon learns that “Come!” means nothing good is going to happen to him and he will stop coming. Always reward your dog for coming to you with a smile, pat, and “Good boy!” — and a few treats won't hurt!

A Little to the Left .. .

While you bathe your dog, scratch those itchy spots! Massage her back, hips, and legs while shampooing her. When you clean out her ears, be sure to give her a good, long ear rub. That makes it all worth it. After grooming, a little walk outside to go potty and play makes grooming not so bad after all. Dogs want to please you. When you smile and praise them for doing what you want, you'll see a big difference in their attitude.