Do’s and Don’ts Before Taking Your Dog to a Groomer: What You Need to Know

Do’s and Don’ts Before Taking Your Dog to a Groomer: What You Need to Know

So, you’re thinking of booking a grooming session for your pup-or maybe you’ve already locked it in. Good call. But before you grab the leash and head out the door (or schedule that mobile van to your driveway), let’s pause. Because as simple as it may seem, taking your dog to the groomer involves more than just showing up.

Here’s a look at the do’s and don’ts you’ll want to keep in mind so both you and your dog get the most out of the experience.

DO: Get Your Dog Comfortable with Handling

Let’s face it-being handled by a stranger with buzzing clippers can feel like an alien abduction to a dog. You don’t want your pooch turning into a furry tornado the moment your dog groomer reaches for the paws.

Start small: Practice touching your dog’s paws, ears, and tail at home. Get them used to the sensation with gentle massages or a treat every time you handle a sensitive spot.

 “Desensitization is key. The more your dog is used to being touched in various areas, the less likely they are to panic during grooming”

DON’T: Skip the Pre-Groom Walk

Got a ball of energy on your hands? A quick walk or light play session before the appointment helps burn off excess energy and keeps your dog calmer on the grooming table. You wouldn’t show up to a spa session wired on three cups of coffee, would you?

Also, if your dog tends to get… let’s say “excitable” in new places, this walk can help them go potty beforehand-saving everyone a very messy situation.

DO: Be Honest About Your Dog’s Behavior

If your dog has ever bitten, snapped, or gone full Cujo during past grooms, don’t sugarcoat it. Good groomers are trained to work with anxious or reactive pets, but they need a heads-up.

Many grooming services now offer specialized anxiety care, like breaks between grooming stages, calming pheromones, or even “quiet mode” clippers. But they can only prepare for your pup’s quirks if you let them know.

 “Transparency saves time, reduces stress, and helps build trust with the groomer,” notes one Reddit thread on r/dogs, where pet owners share grooming horror stories and the groomers who turned things around.

 DON’T: Feed a Full Meal Right Before the Appointment

Here’s something dog owners learn the hard way: dogs + grooming stress + full bellies = bad mix. Feeding your pup a full meal right before heading to the groomer can lead to nausea or-you guessed it-accidents.

Instead, go for a light snack at least an hour before the appointment. That way, they won’t be hangry but will still feel comfortable during the session.

 DO: Pack the Essentials

If you’re heading to a salon or sending your pup off in a mobile van, make sure you bring:

• Vaccination records (some salons ask for them)
  
  
• A favorite toy or blanket (for comfort)
  
  
• Clear grooming instructions (you’d be amazed at how often “just a trim” turns into a full shave)
  
  

If your dog has skin allergies or sensitive spots, bring your own shampoo or alert the groomer ahead of time. Most pros are happy to accommodate.

DON’T: Be Afraid to Ask Questions

You wouldn’t hand your kid to a new babysitter without asking a few questions, right? The same applies to groomers. Ask about:

• What’s included in the service?
  
  
• How long will it take?
  
  
• Do they use cage dryers or hand drying?
  
  
• How do they handle anxious pets?
  
  

You’re not being “that client.” You’re just making sure your best friend is in good hands.

 DO: Maintain Between Groomings

You can’t expect a once-a-month groom to undo a month of matting, dirty paws, and outdoor adventures. Brushing your dog at home—even just a few times a week—makes the groomer’s job easier and keeps your dog’s coat healthier.

Small efforts like wiping paws after walks or checking for ticks will help you get better results each time.

Final Thoughts: Grooming Habits Are Evolving

As mobile grooming, pet wellness services, and individualized care become the norm (especially in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi), the pre-groom checklist is expanding too. More owners are treating grooming as an essential part of pet health, not just vanity.

Still, not all dogs are the same-and neither are groomers. Some dogs need time to warm up to the experience, while others jump right onto the grooming table. We’re still figuring out the best ways to support high-anxiety pets or breeds with special coat needs.

The good news? You’re already ahead of the curve just by taking the time to learn what to do (and avoid) before that appointment. So give yourself a treat-and maybe one for your dog, too.