Liberty Dog Spa
Your dog’s first visit to the groomer will be monumental. It’s their first real professional bath with all the trimmings so, of course, you might be anxious not knowing what to expect.
After 8 weeks old, puppies are ready to come in and get their first bath! Typically after 12 weeks of age they are ready to try their first full groom!
We always recommend starting with a bath only appointment before booking a groom. Baths are a great introduction to grooming and helps our little buddy ease into things. If you have an older dog that has never been to a groomer, we would still recommend starting with a bath for their first time. After they have gone through the bathing process and feel comfortable being handled, then they are ready to book for their first groom!
Our groomers greet you when you arrive for a few different reasons.
One is for the dog to be walked back by them after having met you and been able to build a little trust up.
Another reason is so that you can meet the person that will be taking direct care of your loved one.
And finally, we really want to make sure that you and the groomer have the opportunity to discuss exactly what you want done so that we can make sure we deliver!
If you have any questions about who might be the best groomer to work with your new dog, feel free to check out our groomer profiles on the Liberty Dog Spa website! There you can learn about each of our team members and decide where you feel best matched!
To help ease the process for both you and your dog, we’ve acquired a basic list of dos and don’ts when it comes to your pup’s groomer visit!
Do Prep Your Dog at Home
The best thing to do to get your dog used to the grooming process is prepping them at home first. You’ll want to familiarize your dog early on what goes into bath time so that they’re used to it when they go to a groomer for the first time. Their first bath at home can help them when away, so you’ll want to go through many of the same procedures a groomer will do at home. Things, like bathing them in water, cleaning their ears, and even blow drying their hair, can help later on. This way, your pooch won’t freak out once a groomer tries to do the same.
Do Brush Regularly at Home
Besides getting Fido accumulated at home to grooming methods, you’ll want to also brush their hair as often as possible so that they don’t go in with knotty hair. Brushing it daily or even just weekly will help prevent knots, which means an easier grooming experience that won’t frighten the dog. Think of your dog’s hair like your own hair and brush it every day if you can.
Do Continue to be Calm
You’ll want to be extra calm and collected when you drop off your pooch at the groomers for the first time. Remember, dogs can easily sense your anxiety, so if you’re anxious about their first grooming experience, so will they. You don’t want to make them frightened or scared. This will only translate to a squirming dog that will make the grooming experience horrible overall.
Don’t Check in on Your Dog
At drop off time, it is best to hand the dog over to the groomer and make a swift and calm exit. Hanging around can make the dog anxious and wonder why you aren't following. Once you drop your dog off at the groomer, we do not recommend dropping in to see how they’re doing or if they are finished. This will get your dog excited and make grooming very difficult. It’s better to wait for the groomer to officially call you before you head over to pick them up. Use this time to go run other errands or just relax and treat yourself to something!
Have questions or concerns?
Don't hesitate to reach out, our receptionist is always ready to help!
847.247.4809