With the start of the New Year, I am sure there are some new furry family members being brought home. This is a copy of a post I wrote a little while back ago concerning puppy grooming!
PUPPY GROOMING!
It is so exciting to welcome a new furry family member, especially a puppy! There are many things to think of and plan for when your new friend arrives, but sometimes we do not think of grooming as first on that list. However, a proper introduction to grooming is crucial for a puppy that may spend any time of its life being groomed. Here are some key points to remember when it comes to having your puppy groomed:
WHEN SHOULD MY PUPPY FIRST VISIT THE GROOMER?
Even if your puppy will not receive a haircut, or any other grooming services, for a while, it is best to go ahead and select a groomer and schedule their first visit. This could be done as soon as a healthy puppy is 8-10 weeks old. This will start to familiarize your puppy with the groomer and grooming location.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY PUPPY'S FIRST GROOM?
This could vary depending on the puppy and what needs to be accomplished. A first visit may simply be an introduction with some puppy cuddles and tasty treats to provide a positive experience. If the puppy is ready, he/she may be given a bath and brush out. Often this will also include cleaning the ears and trimming the nails. For longer coated puppies, they may receive trimming around the face, feet, and sanitary areas to help maintain cleanliness. This will also be the time when the groomer will be introducing the puppy to the various grooming tools, including the sounds they make and the sensations they create when in use.
WHEN WILL MY PUPPY RECEIVE HIS/HER FIRST HAIRCUT?
This can vary, especially by breed. Generally speaking, it is typically around 6 months of age or later that a puppy will receive their first all-over haircut. Most puppies with longer coat will start out with soft, fluffy coat that will eventually be replaced with a stronger, coarser coat. The coat color may change, too. As Groomers, we like to see a nice transition to adult coat before trimming. Puppy coat may be lightly trimmed, but a puppy is typically better prepared for a haircut, both physically and mentally, when the adult coat has set in. Oftentimes, trimming between the layers of puppy and adult coat will appear patchy and uneven.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As a groomer, I want your puppy to come to love being groomed! Puppies should have an enjoyable and playful experience as they learn the grooming routine. Starting them early is key to their success. If you worry they will feel nervous or miss you during their groom, I often suggest they have something familiar to comfort them. This could be a worn t-shirt that smells of you or a favorite toy. Working with your groomer and discussing your puppy's needs will set him/her up for great success in grooming!
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