What Your Dog Groomer Wants You to Know Before Your Appointment
Taking your dog to the groomer isn’t just about keeping them looking good—it’s essential for their overall health, hygiene, and comfort. However, professional grooming involves more than just a quick bath and trim. Groomers wish every pet owner understood a few key things before their appointment to ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved.
From coat care to behaviour expectations, here’s everything you need to know before your next grooming session.
1. Make Sure Your Dog Has Gone to the Bathroom Before Their Appointment
One of the simplest yet most overlooked steps before a grooming appointment is ensuring your dog has had a potty break.
Why It Matters:
A dog that hasn’t relieved itself before grooming may have accidents during the process. This can be messy and stressful—especially if it happens mid-bath or while the groomer is using sharp tools.
What You Can Do:
• Take your dog for a bathroom break before heading to the salon.
• Arrive 5-10 minutes early to allow for a quick walk if needed.
• Avoid feeding them a large meal right before their appointment to reduce the chance of accidents.
2. Your Dog’s Coat Condition Matters
Matted fur isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can be painful, unhealthy, and challenging to manage.
Why It Matters:
Mats pull on the skin, cause discomfort, and can hide sores, parasites, or infections. Severe matting may require shaving instead of brushing out, as untangling knots can be painful.
What You Can Do:
• Brush your dog regularly, especially if they have a long or curly coat.
• Use the correct grooming tools—ask your groomer for recommendations.
• Never attempt to cut out mats with scissors, as it’s easy to accidentally cut your dog’s skin.
📖 Further Reading: How to Prevent and Treat Matting in Dogs
3. Be Honest About Your Dog’s Behaviour
If your dog gets nervous, reactive, or aggressive during grooming, be upfront about it.
Why It Matters:
Groomers are trained to handle anxious dogs, but unexpected aggression can pose safety risks. Transparency helps them take necessary precautions.
What You Can Do:
• Inform your groomer if your dog has ever growled, snapped, or bitten.
• Work on desensitization at home (touching paws, brushing, etc.).
• Talk to your vet about calming options if needed.
📖 Further Reading: How to Reduce Dog Anxiety at the Groomer
4. Grooming Is More Than Just a Haircut
Grooming involves much more than a trim. A full appointment often includes:
✅ Nail trimming
✅ Ear cleaning
✅ Bathing and drying
✅ Checking for skin issues, parasites, or lumps
Why It Matters:
Skipping regular grooming can lead to painful problems like overgrown nails, ear infections, and hygiene issues.
What You Can Do:
• Maintain brushing and nail trimming at home.
• Schedule grooming appointments regularly (every 4-8 weeks, depending on breed).
📖 Further Reading: Dog Grooming Basics Every Owner Should Know
5. Don’t Wait Too Long Between Appointments
A long gap between appointments can lead to excessive matting and hygiene issues.
What You Can Do:
• Stick to a consistent schedule (your groomer can recommend the ideal frequency).
• Brush and maintain your dog’s coat between visits.
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6. Not Every Dog Can Have a Long, Fluffy Cut
Long, fluffy coats require daily maintenance. If your dog arrives tangled or matted, your groomer may have to shave rather than trim.
What You Can Do:
• Brush your dog daily if you want to maintain a longer cut.
• Accept that a shorter cut may be necessary if matting is present.
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7. Groomers Aren’t Magicians (or Veterinarians)
While groomers can make a dog look great, they can’t:
❌ Fix severely matted coats without shaving
❌ Diagnose or treat medical issues
❌ Transform a neglected coat into a show-quality style in one visit
What You Can Do:
• Have realistic expectations—sometimes a fresh start (shaving) is best.
• Visit your vet for any medical concerns before your grooming appointment.
8. Proper Training Makes Grooming Easier for Everyone
Dogs that are comfortable with being handled and groomed make the process much easier.
What You Can Do:
• Start early—get puppies used to being handled and brushed.
• Teach basic obedience commands like “stay” and “stand.”
• Do short practice grooming sessions at home.
Further Reading: Training Your Dog for Grooming
9. Arrive on Time and Pick Up on Time
Groomers work on a tight schedule. Being late can throw off their day, and leaving your dog too long after their appointment can cause stress.
What You Can Do:
• Arrive on time for drop-off and pick-up.
• Call ahead if you’re running late.
10. Don’t Expect a Perfect Cut From a First Visit
Grooming is a process, especially if your dog’s coat isn’t in great condition. It may take a few sessions to get the ideal look.
What You Can Do:
• Be patient, especially if your dog hasn’t been groomed in a while.
• Communicate clearly about your preferences, but trust your groomer’s advice.
11. Tipping Is Appreciated
Grooming is physically demanding work. A tip isn’t required, but it’s a great way to show appreciation.
What You Can Do:
• If you’re happy with the service, tipping 15-20% is a kind gesture.
• Even a kind word or a positive review helps!
Further Reading: How Much Should You Tip Your Groomer?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should my dog be groomed?
A: It depends on the breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Most dogs benefit from grooming every 4-8 weeks.
Q: What if my dog hates being groomed?
A: Try gradual desensitization at home, use positive reinforcement, and talk to your groomer or vet for additional tips.
Q: Can I groom my dog at home instead?
A: You can do basic maintenance, but professional grooming ensures thorough coat care, nail trimming, and hygiene.
Q: My dog was shaved—will their coat grow back normally?
A: In most cases, yes. However, some breeds with double coats may experience changes in texture or regrowth.
Final Thoughts
Dog grooming isn’t just about making your pet look good—it’s about keeping them healthy and comfortable. By following these tips—especially ensuring they’ve had a bathroom break, maintaining coat care, and being honest about behavior—you’ll make the process easier for everyone.
A little preparation goes a long way in making grooming stress-free for both your dog and your groomer!
