Let’s talk about desensitisation✨
Why is it so important to get your puppy groomed as soon as they have had their final injections?
💙it gets them use to the grooming environment
💙it gets them use to loud noises (dryer, clippers)
💙it gets them use to scissors & combs around
their face
💙getting groomed feels a part of life & builds
their confidence
💙it builds a bond between your dog & their
groomer
With love, patience (and lots of treats) it is possible to get anxious dog’s loving their grooms!
I don’t care how many sessions it takes, my promise to you always is that your dog comes first and I will forever ensure they are happy and loved in my care!💙
✨THE BARK HOUSE WAY✨
❗️If at any time during the desensitisation process your dog shows that they are uncomfortable with your touch, immediately stop and make it easier for them by backing up a step. This is a marathon not a sprint! Slow and steady ALWAYS wins the race.❗️
1️⃣Get a supply of tasty treats cut into tiny bites. Use something the dog loves and doesn’t get often, such as cheese, cooked chicken, freeze dried liver. Train in 5 minute sessions and always end on a good note!
2️⃣Start without the clippers. Get your dog lying quietly (always best to do at the end of the day or after a long walk so they are sleepy) and just run your hands down his leg towards their foot. You want to stop at the point that they are calm and not reacting, say “YES” and reward. Do this with all four feet and then end your session. Depending on the severity of your dog’s phobia you may have to do this for several 5 minute sessions over a couple of days.
3️⃣Next step is to run your hand down the leg to the foot, touch the foot briefly, say “YES” and reward.
4️⃣Next pick up the foot, hold it briefly and then say “YES” and give the treat.
5️⃣Next pick up the foot in your hand and put light pressure on the toe above the nail, when the dog accepts it say “YES” and reward. Do this for all 4 feet, but remember to keep the session short and fun.
6️⃣Repeat the above step but take out the nail clippers and leave them sitting on the floor next to you during your session.
7️⃣After this, hold the paw and pick up the clippers, but do not bring the clippers close to the nail. Again when the dog is calm say “YES” and reward.
8️⃣When the dog accepts you picking up all four feet and putting slight pressure on their toes, while holding the clippers, you can graduate to just clipping the very tip of the nail. Always mark the behaviour you like with an upbeat “YES” and reward right away.
9️⃣Start with just one nail at a time,
The first of two Queen’s today✨
This gorgeous girl isn’t silly, she requires a treat before every activity😂Which is more then fine with me because I get all the cuddles in return🥰
She’s still not sure about having her picture taken yet though😆
See you next time Dancer💙
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#doggroomer #doggrooming #dogspa #doglove #greyhound