Introduce grooming by a second person

It does not automatically follow that your dog will enjoy being groomed by a second person just because a friend or family member can now handle him all over (way 61). If he will not allow a second person to groom him, he will loathe going for a cut and blow dry. The grooming parlour will not be that thrilled to see him either.

Every time we change one thing, we potentially change everything, so some dogs that enjoy being groomed by their favourite person may still be concerned if someone else approaches them with a brush. Begin by following the steps in way 61. If your dog is happy to be touched all over, your friend can go ahead and spruce up your pooch with his usual grooming brush. If he is a little reticent give your friend a sheepskin mitt or a Jelly Scrubber™ and show them how to do some TTouches with it. Watch your dog's expression all the time. He may be still because he is happy but he may be still because he has gone into 'freeze'. If he is in 'freeze', ask your friend to stop, then take your dog and walk him quietly away.