How to Get the Most out of Your Grooming Appointment

So your dog needs a haircut. Where do you start? Browse the AKC breed sites? Google search “puppy cuts?” Make a grooming appointment and show up, or just buy a clipper, and go for it? (Please don’t!)

Here’s what we recommend:

1. Decide on a Style

Take a good look at your sweet baby, and consider the following:

• What type of hair they have
• What their daily activities are. Are they indoors most of the time, or outside swimming and rolling around?
• How you want them to look.

Browse hairstyles and find a photo of a haircut you love.

Next, as many of us do for our own hair, try to find a picture of some styles you like. As a groomer it is always good to have a visual of what you have in mind. Keep in mind that not all specialized looks are attainable for every dog but we will get as closes as we can.

2. Book Your Grooming Appointment

So you’ve decided on a style, and chosen a groomer. Time to give them a call!

• If you are looking for a haircut in which the total length of your dog’s coat is shortened, you’re looking for a “full groom”.
• If you want your dog bathed and brushed out, but you want to keep their overall length and want light trimming around their feet and face, you are looking for a “bath and brush”, “fancy bath”, or “mini bath”.

Names for types of services vary by salon.

Communicate your dog’s size and current coat condition when you book your appointment.

It’s important to communicate your dog’s size and current coat condition to your groomer at the time you schedule your grooming appointment. Both of these factors are important, because they determine how long the groom itself will take.

We’ll need to see your pup before we can provide a cost estimate.

It can be difficult for groomers (I can’t speak for corporate salons) to give exact prices over the phone before seeing and meeting your dog. We understand that this can be frustrating, so we always try our best to get as close as possible.

3. Show up Prepared

Today is the day for your grooming appointment! You have your reference photo, your pooch, and both you and your groomer have an idea what you’re looking for.

• Bring your dog in with an encouraging and positive attitude. As dog people, we know that these sensitive pets can read our emotions quite well, and we want them to have a positive experience!
• Let the groomer feel your dog’s coat, to determine if the style you wanted will work with your dog’s current condition. Will it work? Great! If not, then you may need to try a “Plan B.” Have no worry, your groomer will help guide you to the best style groom for your dog.
• When departing from your dog, try to avoid prolonged good-byes. It’s like dropping a kid off at daycare – the longer you linger, the more chance they have to become upset. Don’t worry, your dog is in good hands!