How Do You Groom An Older Dog At Home?

It is crucial that your training encompasses all ages and breeds, as professional dog groomers work with dogs of all types. Working with an elderly dog can be challenging because you must consider each dog’s needs and diseases. The key to a successful grooming appointment is being kind and attentive, but what else do you need to know when grooming a senior dog?

Follow these vital tips for grooming elderly dogs, and your clients will be ecstatic with your expertise!

Less standing

Senior dogs (dogs in their latter quarter of life) should be groomed logically. Consequently, you must have a plan for where to begin and how to progress based on the needs of each dog. Older dogs require rest and typically have less muscle and stability than they formerly did. Be sure to take breaks during the grooming session to allow your animal companion to rest his legs and muscles.

A excellent grooming technique for elderly dogs is to begin under the belly and work your way up. This allows the dog to lie down or sit while the remaining fur is brushed. You can also support the dog with your arms or recruit an assistant to help keep the dog comfy.

Make it quick 

An key grooming lesson for senior dogs is to emphasize their health over their appearance. Fundamentally, a dog’s comfort always takes precedence. Therefore, if you notice that an older dog cannot handle a full grooming session, shorten it and stop if you observe signs of pain.

Muscle or joint pain, as well as stress, are the last things a senior dog wants. Use the dog’s body language and temperament to determine how much it can withstand. It is preferable to perform a rapid trim than to induce discomfort or concern.

Be practical

Consider the lifestyle of an older dog; they are likely not as active as they previously were, and their risk of injury increases. Communicate with the owner and consider your age and breed research. Consider the paw pads of a dog that has problems standing or walking for extended periods, for instance.

The removal of superfluous fur could improve their traction on the floor. Additionally, take sure to cut a dog’s nails if he no longer spends as much time outdoors. Again, you’ll need to chat with the dog’s owner to determine his or her specific situation.

Be gentle

Maintain a senior dog’s stability and comfort by mild brushing. Similarly to people, a dog’s skin can become more sensitive with age. Choose your brush with care and employ slow brushing strokes to comfort your furry clients. In addition, understanding a dog’s diseases will help you avoid grooming issues.

Learn the sensitive areas of an elderly dog, and don’t risk aggravating them. As the groomer, it is your responsibility to provide as much maintenance as possible without causing harm. Senior dogs require tranquility, therefore this should be your top focus!

Don’t risk it

Knowing when to say “no” as a groomer can increase your credibility. Even if some of your consumers do not comprehend the risks associated with grooming an older dog, they should recognize that you are the expert. Never jeopardize your reputation as a groomer. If you anticipate a problem, you should not groom a dog that is ill or injured, even if he is a young dog.

You must also know when to quit grooming an older dog if it becomes intolerant. He may lose the ability to stand or get hostile towards you. Regardless, you should be aware of the symptoms of an uneasy dog. This is yet another reason to work fast and cautiously with older dogs; keeping an eye on him will protect both you and the dog.

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