How to prepare your dog for their first groom
A calm first visit sets the tone for years. Five simple things to do in the weeks before, and what to expect on the day.
By Maya Ellison, groomer at Maya’s Pet Grooming
The first groom is less about the haircut and more about teaching your dog that the grooming table is a safe place. A little preparation at home makes a big difference.
In the weeks before
- Handle paws, ears and the base of the tail every day for a few seconds, with a treat after.
- Brush gently for two minutes at a time, even if the coat doesn't need it yet.
- Let your dog hear a hair dryer or electric toothbrush nearby so buzzing sounds are familiar.
- Practice standing still on a stable, non-slip surface.
- Keep up with vaccines — a current rabies certificate is required before booking.
On the day
Take your dog for a walk first so they can burn off energy and go to the bathroom. Keep the goodbye short and cheerful; long goodbyes tell a dog something is wrong. For puppies under six months, I recommend the Puppy Intro — a shorter, gentler session focused on getting comfortable.
Afterwards
Praise your dog, and book the next visit within 4–6 weeks. Frequent short visits early on build confidence far faster than one long session every few months.
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