06/11/2025
A post for an owner with an anxious dog finding a dog groomer ππΎ
Almost every day I see posts from loving pet owners asking for recommendations for a groomer who is good with anxious dogs.
But what exactly is an anxious dog? Is this is a dog who needs space from others? Is it a dog who has never been into a professional grooming space before? Is it a dog who doesnβt like to be separated from their owner? Are they really anxious or do they just struggle to cope in particular environments or around new people?
So many questions left unanswered.
Then the recommendations come through, often from other well meaning pet owners whose dog seems to cope well with the chosen groomer. But, and hereβs the big but - a groomer who is fantastic at desensitising dogs for nail trimming but wonβt allow an owner to stay with their dog, isnβt going to work for a dog with separation anxiety. A groomer in a busy salon who has helped dogs with handling issues in the past isnβt necessarily going to be an appropriate for a dog who doesnβt like other dogs. Maybe youβve got a newly adopted rescue. Yes they may have a bit of a kennel smell, but it takes time for these dogs to build trust and feel safe with you as a pet owner, never mind with a complete stranger - is it something you could manage at home until theyβre more settled?
Finding a groomer who is suitable for your dogβs individual needs is more than just recommendations. Itβs asking questions, itβs finding out the groomers experience, their willingness to adapt if necessary. Visit the salons, speak to the groomers. Above all, trust your dogβs instincts - if they need to be dragged in then it may not be the right set up for them. What works for one, wonβt work for another.
β¨ And never forget, that if your dog feels safest with you, maybe itβs time to learn how to groom them at home β building their confidence and yours, right where theyβre most comfortable.