Helping puppies to get into the grooming groove

It goes without saying that welcoming a new puppy into the family is an extremely exciting time. However, introducing a new pet into the home requires training, setting boundaries and starting new habits for your customers and their furry friend. With this in mind, it’s important that customers understand their pup’s grooming needs from the get-go, not only ensure their pet is happy and healthy but also save their home and clothes from excess loose fur. To help, Furminator’s professional grooming expert Stuart Simons offers, top tips for your customers on introducing their new pup to a grooming routine. Start grooming early It’s important to introduce puppies to a professional grooming routine as early as possible, that way they will learn it’s simply a part of life, just like eating, drinking and walkies. The quicker they start to understand the noises and smells of a working salon, the sooner they will learn to be comfortable in that environment. Remember, they will see a groomer far more regularly than any other professional, so a good experience early on in life makes for a much happier pup. A handy tip to remember is to take dogs to the groomer before food and after they’ve been to the toilet. We all know how playful puppies can be, so a nice walk is always advisable too so that they have used up their excess energy. On top of this, introducing a gentle grooming routine in the comfort of the home is also key. However, it’s really important that you ensure dogs are comfortable and happy throughout the experience. Keep an eye on their body language and start with small sessions to begin with. Positive reinforcement is key Puppies love to know that they’ve been good, so lots of happy sounds and gentle handling will reassure them during their grooming session. Try to make the whole thing a positive experience. Lots of love and cuddles after a groom go a long way, as will some of their furry friend’s favourite treats. Afterall, we all need paying for a job well done and it’ll be a positive memory for next time. Don’t forget to be in charge Gentle assured handling will always reinforce the puppy that they’re safe. Like a child, puppies will probably not want to be there for as long as needed but persevering is key. If puppies wriggle away when home grooming, try to take him off the floor and on to a table. Keep them safe and don’t be afraid to ask someone to help hold them. Remember, patience is key. Keep things consistent It’s a good idea to decide on a place in the house where the grooming will happen and stick to it. That way, the puppy will know that when they’re in that place, it’s grooming time. Also, pick a regular time within the pet’s daily routine such as in the evening when the home is quieter. You wouldn’t believe how well this works. Remember, groomers can help with additional maintenance Although it often depends on the breed, puppies should come in once a month for a feet, face and bottom trim together with a nice wash and brush until they are six months old. Once they reach this milestone, they should be ready for their first big dog haircut! It’s important to note, in most hair-bearing breeds, the coat goes through a change at around six-12 months and this can make it difficult for home maintenance - if in doubt, professional groomers will be able to help. Grooming the UK’s favourite breeds If your customers are thinking of getting a puppy, Stuart has also shared his tips on looking after three of the UK’s most popular breeds. Staffies The great thing about Staffies is that they are low maintenance when it comes to grooming. A trip to the groomers every 4-6 weeks will keep their coat looking healthy and shiny. TOP TIP - Get a FURminator undercoat deShedding tool for home grooming and they’ll think it’s a fun game too Cockapoos Their hair grows and grows so it’s really important to stay on top of their grooming with a daily brush and comb. A 6-weekly haircut at the groomers is also essential, with a bath in between appointments too! TOP TIP - If your Cockapoo gets wet on a walk, use a hairdryer and brush once indoors – this will help keep on top of knots and matting Labrador Retrievers Did you know that shedding depends on colour with chocolate and cream labs tending to shed more than black labs? Keep your house from becoming a hair haven with regular use of a FURminator deShedding tool together with a professional grooming appointment every 6 weeks. TOP TIP - Home grooming once a week for at least 10-20 minutes can reduce shedding by 99% Stuart Simons