Question by WriterMom: Any over the counter med to help a dog relax enough I can groom him?
Something safe. I neeeeeeed to groom this dog but he’s so *%$# friendly he’s all over me! I can probably figure out how to hold his head up like they do at a salon, but sincerely, this guy needs to CHILL. He just won’t stop going after my clippers, my face, whining….suggestions???
Truth…GREAT advice. I loved it. Very sensible, very helpful! I am feeling more confident now.
Best answer:
Answer by Truth Hurts, Doesn’t It?
Two things.
One, you need to desensitize him to the grooming experience. Whatever tools you use, start leaving them out. Pick them up, drop them, brush them by him – just get him used to seeing and feeling them with NOTHING else happening. If you use a certain table or leash, get him on/in those randomly throughout the day.
Eventually he will stop going “crazy” when he sees the tools or is put into the “grooming position.” While you’re doing this, enforce his behavior with praise or correct it by maneuvering him into the right position. If you want him to stand, MAKE him stand by putting a hand under his belly and pushing up.
Two, before grooming take him for a nice long walk. Drain his energy so he won’t WANT to wiggle around and whine. Then start small and work your way up – brush, bath, clip. Scissoring and clipping is done LAST. If he wiggles, just wait it out and ignore it. When he’s done, he gets a final reward.
Drugs should be the LAST resort and you should talk to your vet before giving him any.
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