Make grooming a pleasant experience

Grooming should be pleasant for both you and your dog. It strengthens the bond between you, and keeps your dog's coat and skin healthy by improving circulation and removing dead hair. Avoid being too vigorous and watch your dog's expression to ensure he is enjoying the experience, not simply politely waiting for you to stop.

Young dogs are often wriggly when they are groomed and may mouth the brush or start playing with your hand. If you have already taught him the containment and handling exercises (ways 11 and 12), it is unlikely that this will be because he is over-sensitive to contact and is more likely to be because it is a new sensation. Put some squeezy cheese or doggy pate on the fridge door to take his mind off the brush.

If your dog is nervous or unsure, use a sheepskin mitt or a soft Jelly Scrubber™, which will make the grooming experience less challenging and therefore possibly more pleasurable. Use TTouches to access areas that may be of concern to your dog. If your dog has serious concerns about being groomed, take him to the vet for a thorough health check as he may have problems with his neck, back and/or hips. If he is given a clean bill of health, contact your nearest TTouch Practitioner who will be able to teach you bodywork exercises that will help your dog.