Brushing

Every groomers nightmare is to shave a dogs coat down to the skin. We don't like doing it and the owners don't like how it looks. But when it comes to matting I don't mess about, I clip it off as it's the kindest thing to do for the dog and their welfare. That's why a regular brush routine is very important for long haired and curly coats. You can find more about matting here.

Training

Dogs need training, we know that by now, and the same goes for grooming. As a professional groomer I work with a lot of sharp items from scissors to clipper blades and it's important that I train your dogs to be calm around these items. That's why bringing them in regularly from an early age goes a long way. Their coats may not look like they need a groom but it's the training that we focus on at that age. 

Letting them go to the toilet before the groom

This one is self explanatory but it does save the dog some discomfort. There's nothing worse than washing, drying and starting to clip a white Bichon or a snow white Maltese and they "do their business" right there on the grooming table. It means another wash and dry session for them, more time spent  grooming for the groomer and at the end more money for you. It can take a groomer up to 30 minutes extra to redo everything and most groomers will charge extra for their time.

Bring a picture of the style you like

Pictures of the type of haircut you would like for your dog is always very helpful. Whilst all dogs have different shapes and hair grows in different ways, it gives us a chance to come as close to a desired groom as we can. Another thing to consider is what your dog is like and how busy your life is and then choose a groom that will be most suitable. For example, if your cavashon (cavapoo, cokapoo, bichon etc.) is very active, loves puddles and you have a very active life with no time to brush him, then a shorter style might be best!

Regular clients

Most of my clients are on 6, 8 or 10 week schedules and they book their next appointment on departure from my grooming studio. I send them reminders a week in advance which allows them to make any changes to the timings and most of them genuinely forget how quickly the appointment comes around. Also dogs that stay with the same groomer regularly learn to trust them. They get to know the groomer, trust the process and are calmer as a result. Plus regulars always get a discount!

Make dropping-off your dog stress free

If you speak to any groomer they will tell you the same thing: drop the dog off and walk away as if it's a no big deal. Dogs are great readers of our emotions so if we're stressed, nervous or a bit "off", they will feel it and it can stress them out. So treat it as a normal appointment, say a short bye to your dog and walk away calmly.

Regular vet checks

Ticks, fleas, teeth, changes in skin and hair etc. ​Yes that’s right, going to the vet once a year or more often as your pooch ages is the best way to make sure your pet is healthy and ready for grooming.

My dog can't see!

The number one reason why my clients attempt home grooming is because their dogs can't see out of the hair in their eyes. Please, please don't try cutting them yourself! I offer free eye trims for all my regular clients in between grooming appointments. It only takes me a few minutes and makes a huge difference to their little faces.

I hope this is helpful and if you need any further advice on all things dog related or just have a chat about your dog, you can find me in my groom room in Raheny!