How to Groom a Dominant Dog

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How to Groom a Dominant Dog

Hard

15 - 30 Minutes

1 Week

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Introduction

Grover is a take-charge kind of dog, he seems to think that the only opinion that counts is his. When it comes to grooming, he has no problem letting you know it just isn't his thing. In fact, he might even become a bit aggressive when you approach him with the brush and clippers. You could, of course, secure him in place and put a muzzle on him, so he can't bite you. But, this will never teach him to kick back and enjoy being groomed. Instead, you need to teach him to stay calm and relax at grooming time.

Dog's Perspective

Just because Grover is a bit on the dominant side, doesn’t mean you have to let him get away with it. If Grover is a bit on the aggressive side, it could mean he has had a bad grooming experience at some time in the past. Your job then will be to help him come to see grooming as a good thing and that it is okay to kick back and enjoy it.

The Getting to Know You Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Pin Brush

Comb

Step

Set out the tools

Start by setting out all of the tools you plan to use where they are close at hand and where your dog can see them and sniff at them. Give him plenty of time to get used to their presence.

Step

Introductions all round

Call your dog over and slowly bring each tool up to eye level. If he looks like he might be getting upset, back off. Give him a few minutes and a treat then try again.

Step

The best place to start

The best place to start is by taking a slicker brush and gently brushing his head. Keep using a soothing voice to keep him calm.

Step

All along the ridgeline

Then you can work your way down the neck and along his back to his tail. If your pup is getting antsy, stop, praise him and give him a treat, then carry on.

Step

To the stern

Take your time and be very gentle when grooming your dog's derriere. He is sure to appreciate a gentle touch back there. Keep working with your pooch and it won't be long before he starts enjoying the sessions.

The Positive Things Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Scissors

Pin Brush

Deshedder

Dematter

Clipper

Step

Choose a cool spot

Choose a spot in your home that has at least two of the following items: a window, a radio, or a TV. Each can be used in its own way to distract your dog from the fact he is being groomed.

Step

Go for a stroll down the avenue

Put your dog's leash on and take him for a nice long stroll. Give him plenty of time to go potty, run around a little, and just generally tire himself out.

Step

You keep on talkin'

Once the two of you are in the grooming spot, spark up a conversation. You can talk about anything, just don't expect him to give you too much in the way of answers. The idea is that your soothing voice will settle him down while you are brushing him. This is a good time to brush his head and neck.

Step

Add some tunes or a cool TV show

If your stimulating conversation is starting to lose its charm, try turning on some soothing music on the radio. Or if that is putting you to sleep, turn on Dog TV and let FIdo watch his favorite shows while you finish up brushing the rest of his coat, starting with his back and rear end.

Step

To the final stroke

Finally, have your dog lie down and roll on his back (getting a dominant dog to do this can be challenging) and then brush his legs and belly. If you make the whole process fun, it won't take long before he starts enjoying this time with you.

Caution & Considerations

Since your dog has a dominant personality, you need to learn to work with him to show him that you are the Alpha in his pack.
Give your pooch plenty of time to get used to being around the tools before you start to use them.
Be sure that any clippers or shears you use have sharp blades to avoid ripping hair out.
Your dog should be groomed on a weekly basis, so it shouldn't take him long to get used to the process.
Be sure to reward him with treats when does well.
You can also use treats as encouragement when you need to take a short break in the process.
Use this time to check your pooch over for any signs of fleas, scabs, or injuries.

Conclusion

Just because Grover thinks he is the boss, once you make him understand he is mistaken, grooming should become a time to relax and for both of you to enjoy a little bonding. Take your time, let Grover set the pace and it won't be long before he is coming to you to be groomed on grooming day.

How to Groom a Dominant Dog

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Getting to Know You Method

The Positive Things Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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