What to do if your dog is nervous about grooming

Many dogs find grooming stressful: new smells, loud dryers, being held still. The good news is that nervous dogs usually improve a lot when the appointment is planned around them.

Tell your groomer honestly

When you book with Maya’s Pet Grooming, choose "Nervous" or "Reactive" for temperament. It's not a label against your dog. It adds calm extra time to the appointment, so nobody rushes, and it steers bookings toward quieter morning times when the studio is calmest.

At home

• Short, positive handling sessions every day, paired with high-value treats.
• Avoid bathing at home right before the groom if baths are a trigger.
• Keep drop-off calm and quick.
• Talk to your vet if anxiety is severe. Some dogs benefit from prescribed calming support.

What I do differently

Nervous dogs get breaks, lower dryer settings, and a slower order of work: the easy parts first, feet and face last. One-on-one grooming means there are no other barking dogs in the room. Over a few visits, most nervous dogs become noticeably more relaxed.