Groomer to Groomer Online Roundtable!

What is your greatest behavioral issue or concern in dealing with dogs that come into your establishment? Is it fear related (blowers, dryers, clippers, grooming table, grooming noose, nail clipping, barking dogs, etc.)? Is it aggression related (touch-sensitive, space/distance related, etc.)? Is it a crating issue? Or is it something altogether different?

     I groom a lot of Poodles. The problem that I have with dogs is resistance to having their feet worked on, either to have them shaved or to have the nails cut. I mean, they really don't want to even have their front legs held to be either scissored or clipped. I am not quite sure if it is fear or what. For the record, I am not trying to pick on Poodles because other breeds of dogs have the same issues and I have a Poodle myself, and he gives me a hard time... it sometimes becomes a tug of war, and it is extremely tiresome. Joy Cummings, Gone With The Fur, Raleigh, NC

     I’m still in school for grooming but in the past four months, I’ve noticed a huge issue with the puppies. They seem to be scared to death of the dryers and a few are scared of the water. The only other huge issue is their feet… a lot of them that have even been getting groomed for years HATE their front feet touched.

     I have recently gone mobile, best thing I ever did, but before I went mobile the biggest issue I ran into with dogs was ear plucking or nail trimming. I always was on my toes a bit when I groomed a new dog, because nine times out of ten they hated having their nails trimmed or the ears plucked. Since I have gone mobile though, they are so much more relaxed I barely have a problem with either thing anymore. Rose Cyrus,
Rose's Spa-Day Mobile Grooming LLC

     I believe a few things are becoming apparent to the dog behavior I am seeing. Most dogs are defensive and it isn't always their fault. We have to finesse dogs and really put yourself in what the pet feels when something is done to them. Smiling at them and laughing diffuses a tense pet. Problems are power blowers accidentally going to ears and eyes and the noise, blasting water in tub and water going into nose and clipping front legs and feet. Be aware of how you must conform to the most comfortable position for the pet, not the other way around. Lastly, ear cleaning should be pulling as few hairs out at a time and watch dumping the cleaner into ear. I recall in my 26 years of grooming some groomers choose to attach the hemostat, lock it and turn it until all the hair is in it and pull! OUCH! We need more finesse. Lori Zozulia, ESMT, MG, Grooming by Lori, Wood-Ridge, NJ

     The biggest problems we see are fear of nail clipping and fear from whatever happened at another grooming shop. Some fear the crates, others the dryers, other just being handled. In our shop we work with a lot of older, and behavior problem dogs that other shops have turned away. We recommend frequent visits in the beginning and we have seen very good results with our handling technique. Laura Schwarting, Four Paws Spa, Broken Arrow, OK

     The main problem at my place is aggression. If I do get a dog that is fearful it usually is a young dog or pup. They're easier to train to overcome their fears. As with the aggressive ones, I keep a kennel leash on them and keep the other end outside the kennel so I don't have to reach in after them. And with the aggressive dogs it has a lot to do with the owner not socializing their pet during the younger years of the pet's life. So if I keep a certain routine during the pet's grooming session, everything goes well. C.W., Hillsboro, OR

     I only groom cats. My issues range from being scared of water to clipping nails to the dryer. It seems once they trust me to not hurt them they are okay. It usually takes about three visits for the cats to become accustom to my handling them. I will play with them a little before and a little after bathing them and that helps. Also, I am grooming in the cat’s home, not at a shop or a grooming van.

     By far it's the lack of obedience training, especially in the large breeds. When you have 120 pound Golden Retriever that WILL NOT go into a cage, it's an issue; it stresses the groomer out, the dog out and makes for a totally unpleasant day. I have dogs that I have refused to groom because they are completely out of control. The owners are being dragged around by them and are relieved to be rid of them for a day. They pawn them off on us. You can condition fear out of a dog, but bad behavior is forever unless it's intervened. Tami Dille, Salon Manager, PetSmart, Monroe, NC

     Most often, I have dogs that are fearful of the high powered dryers. I can see why the noise and feel of it can be quite scary to the inexperienced dog, but I usually remedy this by using a regular hand-held dryer for the first few minutes. This usually has a relaxing effect on the dog and when I feel they are more confident, then I may move onto the high powered dryer at a lower level. I start with their back feet or backside area first and see how much they let me finish before deciding to move onto a more sensitive area such as the front feet and chest area. If the dog remains nervous with the high powered dryer, I succumb, and dry the rest of the dog with the hand-held dryer since I do not do any cage drying in my shop. Vanessa Legeckis, Philadelphia, PA

     I work for a company that has a wonderful product that helps control stress and fear related behaviors in dogs and cats. Comfort Zone with D.A.P. (dog appeasing pheromone) uses an innovative and natural pheromone technology that mimics the comforting pheromones produced by a nursing mother dog, three to five days after giving birth. The clinically tested and veterinarian-recommended product comes in diffuser and spray applications and is used to make dogs feel secure and comfortable in unfamiliar environments or stressful situations such as being groomed. Comfort Zone comes in two easy to use formats, an electric diffuser or spray. Groomers can use the diffuser in their salon or van for 24-hour continuous comfort in their facility or use the spray on their smock, on the table or the holding kennel for those stressed out clients. Tammy Senter

     In my salon (which is in a vet clinic), my problem is mostly aggressive behavior dogs. I find that I can take them from a client okay, but as soon as something is done that they do not like, the teeth are their first reaction to a situation. Later, after dodging these little darlings, I find out from their owners that something (like a bath) has been tried at home and the dogs have bitten their owners so that the bath or whatever would stop. And it does.
     With most of my animals, Barkbuster’s Bah works very well. I start out at the high level and being very firm in handling. One such recent incident, the Bah did not work AT ALL, and I had to scruff the dog to finish bathing him. I was honest with the owner and explained what I had to do in order to get the dog bathed and keep my fingers safe. She understood completely and just said to do whatever to get him to not mind it. Honesty is still the best situation and I have only lost one client by being honest. I have been grooming for 34 years and feel that this is a pretty good record. I do no advertising except word of mouth and stay booked about 3-4 weeks out, summer months are sometimes two months out.
      Main issue is related to fear of blowers. Dogs keep shaking all the time after they hear blowers. Sometimes they are so frightened I can't continue to groom them without them suffering the rest of the time, which affects me a lot. Elizabeth Contreras, Doggie Cuts, Mexico City, Mexico

     Aggression. Luckily I have been blessed with a natural patience with aggressive animals. I believe eight years at a SPCA shelter helped me understand a wide variety of clues. I can read animal responses before they happen. I didn't realize I did this until I left the SPCA and moved into the Veterinary/Grooming world. Not all people have this ability. That doesn't mean they are not terrific and talented groomers.
     I have many clients, some of which have been to other groomers and been turned away. I can't blame the other groomers but I am not for sedating any of my clients. I do have one that needs to be sedated. Otherwise all are sedative free. A dog that gets sedated never learns how to behave on the table. Not that they will change from one groom to the next, but they will make small adjustments as time goes on.
     The problem I encounter most is dogs that get the muzzle off. One cure for this is multiple muzzles. This works on all breeds, including short-faced dogs. I put the first one on. It's usually snug but not tight around the muzzle. If you approach from under the chin you have the best advantage. Over the nose doesn't work because the dog can see what you are trying to do. Once the first is on the next size muzzle comes out and goes on. Most breeds can't get that off or if they can they get the second one off and you have time to replace it before the first one comes off. I've put as many as three muzzles on a dog, and as long as the dog is breathing easily there is no problem. I also favor those mesh muzzles that cover the entire muzzle. They are a little harder to get off.
     Eventually my aggressive clients learn that I am not an easy pushover, which doesn't mean they are easy to deal with, they learn the drill. Sedation is sometimes necessary and essential to handling an animal safely. My peer groomer won't handle aggressive animals, and I don't blame her at all. Aggressive animals are not for everyone, and I wouldn't blame any groomer who states her abilities honestly to the customer. In fact, I'm sure the clients prefer honesty.
     This scenario is not fool proof. An intimate knowledge is required for handling aggressive animals and should only be done by people who really want to accept the challenge. If not, send them out to look for a groomer who is comfortable with the challenge. And if you can do it, charge a lot! Make them appreciate you for what you can do! Wendy Masura, Limestone Veterinary Hospital, Hockessin, DE

     I am a one person grooming business (23 years). My biggest concern is the stupidity of owners who do not leash their dogs when walking up to my shop door. I am on a fairly busy street and give out free leashes to those leaving the shop and a warning to those coming into my shop without a leash. How can us groomers educate the world of people who don't have a clue as to how to control their dog? How about if we create a legal Holiday called, Leash Awareness Day? Let's do it!
Roxanne Johnson, It's A Dog's World

     The biggest problem at my shop seems to be fear related. Our clients are about 50 % city and 50% country dogs. (The country dogs seem to have more fears, as they are not done as often as their city cousins are.)
First mostly of the blowers, dryers, second clippers, nail clipping and last but not least the tub and water. Cherie, Dirty Dawg Spa, Oneill, NE

     For my particular shop it is the bite issue because small dogs aren't trained properly for the groomer. Big dogs no issue, small dogs don't want their faces touched or to be restrained. No proper socializing and no proper manners! Keith Roberts, The Pet Pawlor, San Diego, CA

     Fear is #1... (A-nails, B-dryer, C-water) Sharon, Aussie Pet Mobile, Temecula, CA

     I would say the behavioral problem coming into my shop would have to be the fear of nail clipping. Some of the little guys will start screaming when they see the nail clippers before even touching them. (These are usually the ones that don't like the ears messed with either). We do get a good laugh out of it anyway. Thanks so much for including me in your roundtable question. Sheila Gillespie, The Grooming Spot, Taylors, SC

     I have found that with almost all these behavioral issues they are related to your state of mind/body at the time working on these dogs. If you are in a panic, stress, or agitated state it enhances all of these fears these dogs have. Having a calm mind and state I have found really alleviates the issues that they have. Also I found nature noise CD's and gentle noises (streams, birds chirping, gentle wind blowing etc.) playing help tremendously! I also think limiting the amount of the number of other animals in the shop work wonders for those who seem to have issues. I seldom run into a dog with any of these behavioral problems that we have not been able to work out together. Cindy Geisler, Forget-Me-Not Pet Grooming, New Tripoli, PA

     My biggest dog problem would be dogs that are not very well leash trained, like the 80 pound Labs that want to drag us all over, rope burning our hands. I rarely have other behavior issues that can't be calmly, gently handled.
      I think the biggest issue I have in my dog grooming shop is that I work alone and every once in a while I have a dog that hates to have their nails clipped. Some of them get pretty snappy. If I can't do them by myself then I tell the owner about it when they come to get their dog. Usually they will hold the dog for me while I clip the nails and it works out fine, but if not, I tell them they need to have a vet do it. Kathe Buset, Kathe's K-9 Grooming, Albany, OR

I think that one of the greatest issues is the dogs that don't like the front legs, feet and nails touched. They get very aggressive and bite, jump around and make the grooming almost impossible a lot of the times. If the grooming is impossible the front legs won't look as nice as the rest of the grooming on the dog.
     It is very stressful for the groomer who is trying to do a very good job and it can be a safety issue for the dog, as no one wants a dog to get hurt. Judy Miller, PetSmart, Gainesville VA

I would say aggression, mostly dog aggression. Diana Edwards, Winward Grooming, St Louis, MO

     I think that the biggest concern in dealing with dogs doesn't come from the dogs at all – it comes from the groomers. Dogs are so intuitive and can pick up on a lot more than most people realize. Dogs will respond to a new groomer's timid handling skills, a groomer's frustration when they've had a bad day, and a groomer's stress if they get behind on their appointments.
Dogs will respond to that insecurity – whether it's by nipping, growling, being wiggly, or becoming downright aggressive. Experienced groomers who have a gentle touch and are confident in their abilities will have far fewer behavioral problems with their furry clients. Julie Kent, PetSmart, Lansing, MI

     I find by far that the biggest aggression problem I have is with nail clipping. I find that I can do just about everything else with little or no problem other than the nails. One of the ways I combat this problem is to do the nail prior to bath and drying, and to try very very hard not to quick the dog. Doing the nails before the bath sometimes gives them time to forget when it comes time to do their feet. Melissa Leytem, Home Groomer, Kansas City, KS

     Thank you for including me in your questions but I do not have a good answer for this question as most of our clients are very well behaved. Once in a great while we have a dog that is afraid of the forced air dryers and we have found putting cotton balls in their ears helps a lot. A good ear message helps with a toe nail trim. As far as barking dogs, we try to have everyone in and out in less than two hours, less stress on the dogs and our groomers. As far as aggressive dogs, well they are just not welcomed at our shop, makes for a very nice day of grooming. My biggest concern is that every dog gets the special attention that he or she needs and sometimes their owners too... Debbie Ray, Best Friends Pet Salon, Salem, Oregon

     I find that the worst behavior occurs when I get a dog that will not stand still and is hopping all over the table. These are the ones that get choppy haircuts, won't keep their faces still and end up going home with incomplete heads. For the dogs that are fearful of equipment, I remain calm and matter-of-fact. I put a light hand on their chest, leg or back, turn on the dryer or clipper, blow a little air on their feet so they get used to the sound... then dry them or clip. Sus'n G, Nashville, TN

     I am a mobile groomer and I hand dry all my dogs with a HV (body only, not their face) then fluff out with a regular hair dryer. It upsets me very much when the dog is terrified of the regular hair dryer on their face and they struggle and struggle with me while I am drying it!

     The biggest issue I have with my clients is time. They bring dogs in at a year to two years old and want to get their first groom, so of course they are spooked about everything. Mainly on a regular basis I would have to say the Velocity dryer. Patricia, South Gate

     I would say my salon's biggest issue with the dogs that come in is that they are not desensitized (their body) early on in life. Biting for nails, feet, front legs, and face is the biggest issue we deal with. We even have a special package (that's significantly cheaper than a groom) to encourage our customers to bring in their puppies early so they can get used to the smells and sounds of a grooming salon.

     The greatest behavioral problem in my shop is fear related. Especially this time of year, we get a lot of once a year dogs for shave downs. They haven't been out of their backyards in a year and are either hyper or scared to death. These poor dogs are usually matted to the skin and just the act of trying to get that coat off freaks them out. Not to mention the bath, hair dryer and nail clipping. They probably haven't been touched much in the past year period! Brooke Clark, Puff Grooming, Las Vegas, NV

     I would have to say that nail clipping is the biggest fear-related problem that I deal with on a daily basis. Talking to them constantly and reassuringly seems to help get the job done. Luckily, I only work on small breeds and they're a bit easier to handle. Jean, Dapper Dogs, Laurel, DE

     I would say one of the behavioral problems I have the most difficult time with is when the owner drops off their dog. One out of ten, the dog will start shaking while the owner is telling he or she it is okay and holds their pet as close as possible. I would suppose it annoys me more than anything does. I say to the owner as polite as possible (if it is a new owner to a puppy) that they are reassuring her behavior and to please walk them in on a leash with a positive attitude. As soon as they are out of the picture he or she will be fine. An older pet owner is a bit trickier, I will say it is like day care or I say nothing. I am too annoyed at them. Debbie Foster, Debbie's Pet Boutique, Windsor, CA

     I think it is the noise factor from the pets that are not exposed to the noise regularly due to the owners only bringing those pets once or twice a year. Maybe if we could educate the owners better the pets would be subject to less stress. Dana McCall, Giddy Up Grooming, Dayton, TX

     It would have to be feet. Most dogs hate the feet messed with, like the nails. Ginger Pepple, Superstar Puppies, Davie, Florida

     My biggest problem is the old dogs. Geriatric as I call them. Really it's not the dog as much as the owner. The dog is old, senile, bites, falls over if you just blow on them, but yet the customer still wants that fancy, hand-scissored trim. It's very difficult to convince the owner to trim them short. It's what’s best for the pet. Nancy Riese, Perfect Pet Grooming Salon

    The greatest behavioral issue I have is constant activity. I am a groomer in a large boarding kennel so there are always people and dogs coming and going. The dogs on the table are very interested in everything but grooming. Julie, Groomer; Whispering Winds Boarding Kennel, Butler, PA

     My greatest issue in dealing with dogs in my shop is trying to calm them down after the abuse they've suffered at other grooming shops in the area. They are literally PETRIFIED and unnecessarily. They're biters, shakers, etc…you name it. I get the whole spectrum of animals with painful experiences they're trying to get over. Why must groomers treat dogs this way?
     It seems like the majority of groomers in my area are untrained, and as such – they don't know how to properly handle dogs. This causes the dogs a lot of grief in their future lives. Lynne Schlumpf, Chugiak, Alaska

     To answer your question about behavioral issues; there are a few things that I worry about with dogs, each dog is different, so there just isn't one behavioral problem that I can pinpoint. With big dogs, if they have never been groomed, I worry about their behavior on the table. Or if they are not crate trained, there is nothing worse than a dog you can't get in a crate, then turns to bite you when you push it in. Or a big dog that won't stand on the table and wants to fly off. With small dogs, I really dread fear biters. Nasty dogs will warn you when they will bite, fear biters don't. I hope that has helped you a bit.

    Nail clipping I would say is the most common. I would say it is touch sensitive or sight. Thanks, Sandy

     Hi! I am just opening a small shop for the first time in Stewart County, TN. My most common behavioral issue is fear of the force dryer. Some of these pets can be taught, with love and patience, to accept drying, but those who cannot are put into Pet Porter crates in a comfortably warm room and dried with a large box fan. D. Daly, Daly Care Pet Boutique, Dover, TN

     My greatest issue in grooming is with aggression. I groom a lot of small dogs that are very spoiled. Most of my clients are not able to brush and comb at home and admit that their dog will not allow them to do it. Thank you, Joyce Somero

    Our biggest grooming concern is the aggression-related issue. A dog that is aggressive for whatever reason takes so much more time and puts everyone in the salon on edge. Our aggressive dogs are usually fear-aggressive as much as we can figure. We are a two-groomer shop, and only Pam has agreed to groom aggressive dogs. We haven't charged extra, but after attending a seminar in Atlantic City last weekend where we found out that almost everyone else charges more for the extra time, we will begin to charge more, too. We do request that an aggressive dog come in for our first appointment at 7 AM when it is quieter, and Pam can focus totally on that dog. The problem there is that not all owners tell us that they have aggression problems. Donna Engeldt, Paw Here Pet Salon, Dover, DE

     Our biggest problem is with biting when ear hair is pulled and nails are being cut and filed. Lori Rushing, Precious Treasures Pet Grooming, Forney, TX

     The greatest behavioral issue I see in my shop is fear of nail clipping. I can always tell when a dog has had a bad experience with their nails being clipped by inexperienced groomers or owners compared to dogs that I have clipped while starting their grooming experience from a puppy. Dogs that I have worked with from the start usually have no issues whatsoever with their nails. I have worked extensively with fearful (nail clipped) dogs to overcome their fear and sometimes I'm successful and sometimes I'm not.
It takes a lot of patience to desensitize these dogs and win their trust again. A trick I use to get the nails clipped quickly and painlessly is to clip the dog's nails while the dryer is blowing. The dog is fixed on the drying rather than the pressure of the nail clipper. Do this slowly as you dry the dog and the dog is almost never the wiser! Be sure and hook the base of the nail on the clipper to ensure you won't cut the quick. If the clipper won't hook, don't cut. The nail is probably short enough. Mary-Helen Brittain, Sadie's Snip & Bows Grooming Salon, Tullahoma, TN

     What we have is individual problems with each dog. It depends on their individual fear or bad experience. When we get a pup in, most of the time it would be the dryer.
     In older dogs with health related issues it would be touch. The only thing to do is give the dog the respect of his/her sensitivities and make it the best experience you can. Maria Menichetti, Prim & Proper Grooming Salon, Bellmore, NY

     My biggest problem is not so much a behavior as an age group. The puppies give me the largest challenge. Everything is so new to them and they have no idea what's going to happen to them. They are either wiggling, licking, sniffing or otherwise moving. If I could train the owners to start them early and often, the problem would be nonexistent. The more they come and more I work with them the better adult dogs they are. Many of clients learn from me, talking and listening are my best defenses. If I can show the owners what they can do in between the groom appointments it makes my life much easier as well as the experience of the puppy. Deanna Tippett, Pet Castle Grooming

     The most common behavioral issue I see is a dog with foot phobias. This concern comes up in all degrees, from dogs which give a little bit of pulling resistance when nails are trimmed to dogs which snap and bite with gentle foot handling. Derek Ripley, Glamour Pets, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

     When people bring in their dogs tightly matted and tell us that they don't want us to shave their dog. They want us to brush it out and to leave the hair long. They don't seem to realize that when you brush out a matted dog it stresses them out and they don't seem to believe us when we tell them that. They get upset when they pick up their dog and it’s shaved. I would love to turn them into authorities for animal neglect.
     When people get a dog and don't bother to socialize it and get it used to being groomed at a young age. They know their dog acts that way. They make it our problem and put us at risk of getting bit. Carrie Brewster

     My greatest concern is the geriatric dogs that can't or won't stand up to be groomed or bathed. They usually have health problems that leave me limited choices in ways to help them to stand up as in arthritis, back problems, balance issues etc. Nancy Nighswander, NCMG, Beauty & Your Beast Mobile Dog Grooming, Tiffin, OH

     I’ve been grooming for almost 30 years, but I am in the process of going mobile for the first time after owning my own kennel, my own grooming shops and working as a salon manager for a big corporate “petsomething”. By choice, wherever I worked, I was always the groomer that handled the “special pets that had grooming issues”. At first it was because no one else wanted to, but eventually, it evolved into something I was really good at. Now, I see all pets, both cats and dogs that have issues with grooming for whatever reasons, as potential friends. I enjoy the challenge of earning their trust and winning them over. I find the majority are just scared and with care and compassion, a new friendship can blossom. I think 50% of dealing with cranky dogs is not being afraid of them. They know if you are!!
     I believe another 40% of dealing with cranky dogs is the ability to be flexible. My grooming philosophy is to take the “path of least resistance”. Whatever is easier and less stressful for the pet. I think a lot of groomers are used to doing things a certain way or are new to grooming and don’t have an arsenal of tricks up their sleeve to get around certain issues, so they end up emotionally fighting with the dog rather than adapting what they are doing. An overly simplified example would be, if the pet doesn’t like the clippers around his head and face, use scissors instead.
     The 10% who are left they fall into two categories. The first category are the ones who are ultra sensitive to being touched in a certain way, and I think the most sensitive part of a dog’s anatomy would definitely be the feet, in general and nails, especially. In the second category are the ultra fearful ones. Cage shy being most prevalent, but fear of anything is well within the realm of possibility. A large part of the animals that make up this 10% group can be eliminated by taking the time to educate our clients to the importance of not only introducing their puppies to grooming while they are young, but to do so frequently. Then it turns out to be a win/win situation for all. Hilarie Faria, Hilarie’s Furry Friends Mobile Pet Spa

     I encounter two problems with my dogs at work. Their first problem is the dogs do not want to stay still or stand up for an extended period of time. When you have to restrain them and keep them still, that is when I encounter aggression with the dogs. The second is that at my store, the groom shop is in a kind of “fish bowl.” We have windows on three sides of us so customers can watch dogs being groomed at all times. As a groomer, you get used to people watching but...the dogs do not – especially if the dog's owner is watching and the dog can see the owner. A lot of the dogs just go wild if they see anybody at the window but it is all over with if the owner is standing there. There has been a few times where it has been so bad that I just had to stop the groom and send the dog home. Amy Yarbrough, PetSmart, Midtown Atlanta, GA

     My main problem with dogs is that the owners do not take time to train the spoiled brats. They think that I am the trainer. They do all they can to work the dogs up before they leave and all Poopsie can do is look for mommy! Then when worked up they thrash around and get the “don’t touch me attitude.” Then they are surprised when I do not let them watch or even be in the building while grooming Precious…grrrrr. Linda Reger

     My biggest problem is nails. 99% hate their feet touched. I do mobile so my table is a hydraulic cart that I put legs on the ends of. I jack up the table, put out the legs, then lower it down. Nobody shakes my table. I'm sanding whenever I can. Steve Kosowski, Man's Best Friends Mobile Dog Baths and Grooming, Illinois

     My greatest concern for the safety of my staff, and myself as well as the well being of the dog, would be fear related aggression such as fear biting. Dogs that come in the door and can't be touched without screaming and/or biting are unpredictable and continuing with the grooming process is generally not safe for either groomer or dog. Generally dogs that are afraid of some aspects of the process such as the blower or nails can get through the rest of the grooming with gentle handling. Having an owner muzzle a dog in order to handle and groom it without being bitten may work, but it doesn't solve the issue. At one time I would groom these pets, but it is stressful for everyone involved, so I now prefer to decline these pets and suggest behavioral training. My motto, "If I can't touch it, I can't groom it". Helena Buettner, Madra Pet Styling, Milwaukee, WI

     So many of the dogs I do are small dogs that people seem to think don't need training because they are small dogs. They don't take the time to get them used to being groomed when they're young, so it makes my job much more difficult. I often only see a dog once or twice before it's one-year-old. Many of these dogs aren't brushed regularly at home either because the owners say "they won't let me". Sometimes they are just fearful of what happens at the salon. Other times they are downright nasty. A little early training goes a long way! I'm always happy when I can encourage the owners to start bringing them in more often so they get used to it, and I get them turned around to be accepting of the grooming process. Beth Kidd, Dogs By Design, Jeannette, PA

     My biggest issue being mobile is my air force dryer. It is way too loud. It works for getting the dogs dried in a timely manner but at a price to the poor dogs!
     I have to wear headphones… I wish I had a pair for the dogs as well. Most of my dogs will shake/cry/bark/poop/or jump up and down to the point of possibly hurting themselves. So I do a lot of towel drying of heads. It’s very frustrating. I wish I could put a silencer on the dryer to keep it from being so loud. I use a K-9 force dryer. Susan, All Fur Love Mobile Pet Spa

     The biggest problem has to be the force dryers. The problem really does not have to do with the dogs; it’s their owners! People just don’t bring their dogs in enough to get used to the dryer. When I have a puppy who is scared I tell people to come back every two weeks if just for a bath and blow out, and they DON’T. They wait four months and then I have a really aggressive down right nasty dog. The problem is not our tools; it’s the lack of time the clients bring in their dogs. The vets don’t help by telling owners their pets only need a bath every four months! Bottom line, every pet can benefit from once a month grooming. 1. You have a clean pet, 2. Nails and ears are kept up (most owners don’t.) 3. Groomers touch pets all over; it helps to see skin problems, lumps, bumps etc. We don’t need better tools, we need to get owners to bring their pets in more often! We need to educate our public, and grooming all around. It would be better for not only the groomer but the pet as well!
Stacy A. Matejovic, PetSmart, Huntington, NY

     My biggest behavior issue is a dog that can't stand still...even for one second. They claw at your arms and do the whirling dervish on the table. Laurie, Pawsitively Groomed, Mississauga, ON

     I've been grooming for almost 15 years and I think its both fear of grooming tools and aggression. Lisa

     Definitely the behavioral issues that I deal with daily are fear based issues. From small cages, to loud dryers and dogs barking. Of course, I try to minimize these issues, but some days it's just too busy. If I know a dog is totally freaked, I'll try to schedule them for early morning on a slow day. And I also tell people to bring them back often so that they get used to it. Even if it's just for a quick nail trim they will start to get used to coming in and won't fear it so much. Danielle R. Young, Peninsula Pet Center

     As a behavioral consultant, I deal with dogs with fear and handling issues frequently. Some of them stem from inappropriate handling on a grooming table, but most are simply because they have not been properly introduced to the grooming procedure as a puppy. I suggest anyone with a puppy that requires grooming include daily gentling and handling routines as well as desensitizing him or her to nail clippers, scissors and grooming clippers. For the dog that has already developed problems with grooming, a complete desensitization and counter conditioning program is established using positive reinforcement. Karen Vass-Deeds, Canine Connection

    I would say that our biggest behavioral issue is with BARKING DOGS. There are many thoughts on how to relieve this problem... but not one that really works as far as I am concerned. On a busy day, it destroys your concentration and your sense of humor! Christine DeFilippo, owner, Twickenton, Dedham, MA

     Okay, my biggest thought when a dog enters my business is how much of a barker is it. I know this sounds kind of strange; but I have (as any groomer has that’s been in business for any length of time) dealt with all the other issues – until it becomes " a given" so to speak. But my business is a small one, I only use one other person (my daughter) and she is only there three days a week. If the dogs get to barking a lot in a small business like mine, well it makes it hard to hear on the phone, it makes it near impossible to talk to new customers sometimes, and it upsets the other dogs along with sometimes putting me on my last nerve.
     My solution to this was to put two crates in my back room and put the really noisy ones back there. I asked my customers before I put their dogs back there and explain the reasons and they have all been more than understanding. It helped me out a lot. Brenda Moore, ABC Grooming and Training in Augusta, Kansas

     It is sensitivity to noise. Blowers, dryers, clippers, nail grinders. These dogs were never exposed as puppies to short bouts of clipping. As an English Cocker breeder, my pups have their ears and face clipped at four weeks and their nails ground. Too many breeders are not exposing their pups to the grooming ritual early enough. Lauren Sorrentino, Pennwood English Cocker Spaniels

     I am a shop owner in NJ. I worry about sick dogs coming into my shop and spreading their illness to other dogs. For instance, Kennel Cough is spread through the air, a dog does not have to cough to have it. They can be a carrier. It is impossible to determine which dog may have brought the illness into your shop. Gail Douglas, Something To Bark About, Inc., East Hanover, NJ

     I think that my greatest fear is that a dog will get away from the owners (or me!), and run out into the traffic, or into the land around my shop. There is a 55 mph highway, as well as cows, and lots of different things out here! I am diligent about making sure that only one door at a time is open, and that all pets come and go on the ubiquitous little blue lead, from KISS Manufacturing (that makes my job of remembering whose collars and leads are whose a lot easier). However, there are those people who think that their dogs shouldn't be on a lead. I try not to nurture my fear that someone will come barreling down my driveway at 55 mph, instead of 10 mph, but the thought of the possible reality is certainly there. I try to imagine the worst case scenario, and then avert it from becoming real with signs and suggestions. Patty Wells, Animal Crackers Pet Grooming, Accident, Maryland

     The biggest problem we have with aggressive dogs is owners that wait about one year to bring their pets to the shop for it's first grooming. Then they won't come back until the dog is in horrible shape again and don't know why he has to be handled by "this people". Izabel Breese, Pet Stop Grooming, Fletcher NC

     I own a shop in Sun City, AZ, which is a retirement city. Therefore, the biggest behavior problems that I see are just plain old geriatric crankiness. The owners want to keep these dogs in their old fancy clips from their younger days. When in reality, they don't want clean feet, and long flowing feathers. They only can tolerate minimal brushing, clipping, and blow drying. 18-year-old, blind, deaf, arthritic dogs need TLC, not fancy dos. Denise Garcia, Diamonds in the Ruff, Sun City, AZ

     I find that I always seem to get the dogs that hate their toenails trimmed and ears plucked, and their nails are usually growing into their pads and ears are infected. Sometimes you’re just talking to a brick wall with clients. Alexis, DeVun Veterinary, Mandeville, LA

     Wow, this has to be the toughest but most important question ever asked grooming professionals. I would have to say my biggest concern is fear-related issues. Most dogs, with a little TLC, will make some progress. I have a few in fact that I'm quite proud of with overcoming their fears. Aggression, on the other hand, is tough to correct. Most dogs with aggression problems I turn away. I will work with them once, but if I see the dog is pretty much a basket case and snappy at everything, it's their first and last trip. I wish they could understand that I would never hurt them. Jonna Mitchell, Groomalicious, Walnutport, PA

     Mine is dogs that are aggressive to their owners and me about brushing and demoting. I blame a lot of it on the local breeders or I call them in-breeders that live in my area. The Shih Tzu is the fad dog for the last five to six years, and their physical and mental troubles are exploding. These dogs are aggressive with or without provoking, their skin, eyes, ears and teeth are horrible and by the time the dogs are a year old they are fighting skin infections etc. But they are very cute puppies and have big litters so they are a cash cow to the breeders. And to boot they tell these new owners these dogs don't need grooming until they are one year old or older. So I would say that my second choice is owner ignorance. Lisa, Fancy Paws and Claws

     Anxiety: anticipation from the ride to the groomers, the owner jumping out of the car, and rushing directly into the groom salon, pet all excited, and then messes in lobby and/or cage, and/or tub! If owners would ONLY take pets for a brief walk after ride here. They don't seem to get the picture of what we are asking them to do?! S. Oberholtzer, Glamorous K9's, Lebanon, PA

     I would say that in my grooming shop, the biggest behavioral issue is probably nail clipping. Because of the type of grooming shop I have, I tend to attract clients with sensitive dogs. By far, the nails are the biggest issue, though. Janet Sims, Suds 'N' Pups, Madison, WI

     Since I also run a NON PROFIT K-9 rescue, we have several issues with dogs never being groomed before. They are afraid of just about everything. I have several dogs that won't be able to be adopted because of their aggression. I have one in particular his name is Yibbie. I have to use a muzzle, neck restraint, and two other people holding him in order to groom him and pluck his ears. Plucking his ears is the worst job ever! I have to keep him short so we don't have to groom him as often. Cindy Morrison, Angel Clips & Dips, Inc., Duluth, GA

     My greatest challenge with dogs coming into my salon is fear of the previous groomer. Before I took over my current salon, there had been reports of abuse that came to our attention shortly after the old groomer left. Some dogs have been so traumatized by the former groomer they know that this is the place where bad things happened to them and are VERY leery of coming in, thinking it is going to happen again. This also applies to the owners of the animals, for they know their animal was mishandled in some way because "the dog never acted like this before". So I have to be very gentle, understanding, and patient with my clients and owners. So far, great return on investment!

     Greatest problem is aggressive dogs. To a groomer this is more time consuming, dangerous to the groomer or dog could get hurt. Owners do not want to pay cost for grooming such a dog or cat.

     I have been grooming for over 29 years and have found that my biggest issues are owner related! Most dogs are level headed but do need direction and discipline. Most owner treat their dogs like children and while there is nothing really wrong with that you do still need to understand that dogs think like dogs! I can overcome most behavior issues but it is difficult when I only see these pets a few times a year. My success stories are with my regulars, there is a lot of satisfaction when you can overcome some severe issues and make the grooming experience pleasant for a fearful dog. Joan Smith, Wash & Wag Pet Grooming, New Haven, CT

     Without a doubt, I would say aggressive dogs that are just plain nasty. I don't even necessarily mean bigger dogs like Chows, but smaller breeds like Lhasas and Chihuahuas. I would rather deal with a fear biter. I find most fear biters when taken away from their owners and are on the table are actually fine to do. One trick with fear biters is to always put them in a crate with leash and collar attached and on the ground floor. That way, you don't have to reach in (which is when you most likely will be bitten), you just bring them out on the lead. Vicki Fierheller, Shear Purrfection, Unionville, Ontario, Canada

     I would say that my greatest behavioral issue happens while the pet is on the grooming table. I have a round turntable hydraulic and some pets are afraid when I spin the table, so I try to spin very slowly to resolve that, but my biggest problem is pets that want to SIT. I use two grooming arms, one has the noose and the other has the belly loop on it...I have so many dogs that despise having the belly loop up under them and will still try their best to sit. Being a mobile groomer has its challenges, but I have found so many wonderful products that help to keep the fluffy four legs and myself safe and happy for grooming. Erin Callahan, C/O Zoom Zoom Groom Mobile Pet Salon, South Carolina

     It is often dogs that are sensitive about their feet or nails being clipped, especially in the Llasa Apso breed. Also old and senile dogs that can't see or hear too well tend to be aggressive. Sheree

     If I had to discuss one major issue with behavior it is the fact that most of our big dogs have no leash training, which makes it hard for older groomers to work on the dogs. I am young and love the big dogs, but as I age it will be just as hard on me as it is on them. Owners don't seem to understand the concept due to busy lives. Jaime

     The biggest behavioral problem I have had is with handling big dogs and keeping them on the table with the high velocity dryer. The next in line would be front nails and front feet in general. Ricki Butler, Cut 'N
Polished Pet Grooming, South Haven, MI

     Nail clipping has been the biggest issue, however, recently I started using a Dremel and dogs that previously were impossible to do allow me to Dremel their nails. Never would have believed it.

     The hardest problem is when some of the dogs are crated they feel threatened when they see these pair of hands reaching in to grab them. In that case I put their leash on them ahead of time when I know they are going to act that way, and I have no problem getting them out; otherwise they will bite. Sharon Stockman, The Dog Shop, Geneva NY

     I am planning on starting a mobile grooming business soon and I am concerned about using a velocity dryer on dogs that bite at the nozzle. I groom at a veterinary clinic right now, and some of the dogs just don't tolerate a high powered dryer. What do you do when we have to get them dried quickly? Jennifer

     Not so much the dogs as the owners! LOL. Seriously, my biggest concern is unleashed or uncrated dogs. Their owners allow them to run loose in my parking lot and my business is located on a highway. They come into my shop and run wild. The owners ignore my signs, my reminders of my leash policy on the phone and my pleas to leash their pets. Sooner or later, there will be an accident. Gail Rosenberg, A Leg Up, Hampton, NJ

     Fear of strangers, nail clipping, lovers that wont stop licking, sores untreated, sick animals. Adopt a Pet Save a Life Grooming, Mobile, AL

     I am a mobile dog groomer and I found that during the grooming session dogs do not feel very at ease when being blown dry with force dryer. Some do not like their nails done at all. It does not matter if they are alone with you or in an environment with other dogs and other noises around them.

     My biggest concern with dogs in my workplace (mobile van) is definitely fear related issues. The biggest issue is fear of having nails clipped. One fear always seems to lead to others (afraid of having feet touched at all; afraid of seeing a nail clipper or anything that remotely resembles one) and then you have a twisty, jumpy dog that is impossible to groom for a variety of fear-based reasons. Rachel Epstein, LaunderDog Mobile Grooming, LLC, Allenhurst, NJ

     I'd have to say fear related issues. First was with nail trims (I got bit in the face while doing nails my first week as a groomer). Three years later, it is the grooming table that causes most of my problems. You know, the dogs that will try to leap off of the table only to end up hanging by the grooming loop. I'm one of two men grooming in my area, so I get a lot of big dogs, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, etc. I had one that tipped over the whole table. So far, no trips to the vet have been necessary. Brian, Mudpuppies Dog Grooming, Paradise, CA

     Without a doubt, the toughest part of almost every groom is the feet. I must say, "just give me your foot!" a thousand times a day. Why do dogs carry on so? My toughest toenail job is my own Chihuahua. I have to muzzle her, close the windows, and draw the blinds so the public doesn't think I am killing her. Kate Trattner, Beach Pails and Taols Grooming, Navarre, Florida

     The greatest fears I deal with are the feet and the dog's inability to handle the confines of grooming. Mostly it is based on the owner’s lack of training for the actual act of grooming. Most dogs are made cripples by an over indulgent owner. Pam Boyer, Trail Creek Pet Center, Driggs, ID

BARKING DOGS! How can they bark non-stop for hours?!!
Debbie Pratto, The Paw Spa, Newport Beach, CA

     I would say that the greatest behavioral problem of dogs in our shop is of a fear based nature. I believe this stems from dogs that have not been introduced to the grooming process at an early age or from dogs that are not groomed often enough, because of this some of these dogs have also had bad experiences at previous groomers. Cindy Quigley, Super Mutts, Mesa, AZ

     The biggest behavior problem I have is that most dogs, especially small puppies, have been conditioned by their owners that all I have to do to get you to stop doing something I don't like is to yell and scream and have a hissy fit. I spend the greater part of the first couple of grooms training the dog to understand that I don't care how much you carry on, I am going to groom you. Most dogs calm down after two or three grooms and become comparatively easy to handle. Using these methods I have many clients that I can groom that have been labeled non-groomable by other groomers. Some of these animals respect and love me almost more than their owners, because I am giving them the structure they crave. Susan Pranauski, Eldorado Animal Hospital, Palm Desert, CA

     I work for a three groomer shop in Springfield, MO. Our biggest issue is general grooming table manners, e.g. standing, sitting, trying to escape from table. Most of our clientele are pampered babies that have been allowed to get their own way all their lives thus making it difficult when they are made to be still for any length of time during a process they really don't want to endure. Shirley Makinson, Groomer All Pet Supply and Equine Center

     I am a mobile groomer, so I have eliminated dogs with behavior problems. My main complaint is that 90% of their owners have done no obedience training so I've done what I need to for the grooming and the dogs like me. I don't have to fight them to groom them. Also, most owners don't bother to brush them between grooms. Lynnette Morgan, Lynnette's Grooming, Salt Lake City, UT

     I can sum it up in one word, STRESS. I try to keep the stress level down it seems to help. Judy

     Behavioral issues that are owner induced. The owners have tried to handle the grooming procedure themselves, and failed by letting the dog win through screaming, fighting or biting the owner. And the owner lets go and gives up. Or another person who hard handled the dog and broke his spirit causes it and self esteem. Which makes for a very unhappy puppy, possibly leading to fear aggression or other types. Or just inexperience and fear from loud, hot things that are forced upon them too quickly.

     The behavioral issues that we run into are usually related to the degree of spoiling of the pet by the owners. The excess wiggling, pushing away, excess barking, etc. Most dominant behavior issues can be fixed with a few well placed NOs, but some (Bichons, Westies) seem to be more insistent on hanging on to the most frustrating moves, twists and pawing. I have had some improvements by working with very little verbal and enforcing the desired behavior calmly and firmly before the dog has had the chance to fully execute the undesirable action.
     Too much emotional or angry vocals by us, no matter how annoying the pet, don’t really work. Calm, enforced control, quick before it escalates seems to work best.

     I would have to say that just getting them into the salon while their owners are getting ready to leave is always a challenge. Most groomers and vets have probably experienced the dogs who "put on the brakes" and then you end up pulling them while their butts are stuck to the floor. The other problem would have to be getting the bigger dogs to walk up the ramp into the tub. They do the same thing. You essentially put out the same amount of effort trying to push and pull them up the ramp that you would've had you just lifted the big dog up.

     It is dominance at home and when grooming commences they have not a clue about my high status. Usually the Westies as they get them as puppies looking white and fluffy and gorgeous and give them no rules or discipline until its nearly too late.

     Our greatest problem is dogs that are allowed to "get away with
murder" by their owners who tell us that Bowzer won't let them groom him at home.

     Our greatest behavioral issue at my shop is that the customer thinks that their dog is nervous because they have to leave them. We hardly ever have a problem with the dogs once the owner is out of sight. They will usually mind us very good, until the owner returns. The dogs remind you of a child going to school for the first time, but once they are there they are happy. Pam Beal, Groom'n By Pam, Salem, Illinois

     All of the above issues are ones that can be dealt with on a case by case basis. Even aggression is something that I do not like to deal with or see in an animal but it can be defused and handled. My biggest issue is how to deal with animals that you suspect are being abused. It is difficult when you count on referrals to deal with this problem without creating "bad mouthing" from disgruntled clients. But how do you overlook this or send an animal home when they clearly don't want to go back to those conditions? It's heart breaking and difficult to see these instances. Jeannie Roberts, Spokane, WA

     I would say that my greatest issue(s), although small, would be to try to keep the dog quiet when attempting to trim nails in the mobile grooming unit. Specifically, a dog that vocalizes like I'm abusing him. Since I'm in the unit, the yipping is more noticeable. It's embarrassing; makes me look bad for business, and I don't want to attract that kind of attention from the neighbors. I will muzzle the dog in these cases. But, the dog can still be heard. Only not as loud. Donna Smith, CAH, Donna's Mobile Pet Grooming, Glendora, California

     So far after 17 years of being in the grooming business I have found a way to communicate with most owners to resolve most problems. But by and far, for me at least, the biggest problem I have is with pets that are not spayed or neutered. Dogs that are not spayed or neutered are much more difficult to groom than ones that are altered family pets. I believe that you either have an altered family pet or you have a breeding dog. I do not believe the two exist simultaneously. Unaltered pets are not behaving badly or improperly because their behavior is effected by naturally produced hormones that are present in any dog that is not neutered or spayed.
     Often times it is not a matter of the dog being more aggressive but I have found those unaltered dogs are just more resistant to the whole grooming process. Often times unaltered dogs are more shy and tend to be more fear aggressive. They don't want to stand still and constantly dance around on the table, they cry and whine more while in the drying crates and want to claw and jump and scratch more during the bathing process as well. As a result I have to take more time and be much more careful to not cause harm to the restless moving target I am given to groom.
      To groom an unaltered dog safely it takes more time than an altered pet. I started charging a $10.00 extra handling fee for unaltered dogs due to these factors. Many customers are very upset at first and they immediately think that I am saying their dog is a bad or mean dog. Some customers figure that I am trying to force them to spay or neuter their dog by charging more. Neither is the case. I do believe that if you are going to have a breeding dog you should be breeding for quality and temperament and doing a nice job of it. I see way too many owners who feel they absolutely must breed their purebred pet because it has AKC papers and they want to recoup the money they spent to purchase their pet originally.
I see way too many breeders who do not want to groom their dogs on a regular basis and bring me a dog that has not seen a groomer in over six months and is matted to the hide. They insist that I must brush it out because the dog has puppies at home they are going to be selling for $500 to $1,000 and really don't see why I should have a problem brushing out the poor dog. They don't understand why I should charge more for grooming their dog but they certainly understand getting a lot of money from selling the puppies.
     I do have a number of breeders who take absolutely wonder care of their breeding dogs and do a very nice job of breeding quality, loving pets. I love these people and in no way do I have a problem with them breeding and selling puppies.
     I do not have any problem with a responsible person who wants to breed nice dogs. I have just seen way too many folks come in with dogs that have terrible bites, or health problems such as blindness or terrible coats, or nasty dispositions and they want to breed and sell puppies because the dog has papers. I also have seen a growing trend that many want to breed anything as long as it is a small dog. Doesn't matter what you are crossing with what as long as it is less than 10 pounds. I just think it takes a bit more to breed a quality family pet than the offspring of a dog weighing less than 10 pounds.
     I even knew one owner who had a male Chow and a female Maltese and she allowed the Chow to breed the Maltese every time the poor little Maltese came into heat. The puppies were so cute, she told me and she could sell them for $50.00 a piece very quickly. She tried to tell me that her Vet has told her it was alright to breed the two dogs because the female was so small and that she wouldn't let the puppies get too big. I really do not know how the poor dog survived because she had four or five puppies every time and usually two or three of them were born with defects such as missing limbs because there was not enough room for them to develop properly. This person did this until the day the old Chow dog died from old age. She was one of my loudest screamers when I told her about the extra charge for grooming breeding dogs. How dare I try to rip her off and make her get her dog spayed.
     Bottom line is I just refuse to work extra hours each day for no pay because it takes longer to groom unaltered dogs. I will not rush through or be rough with an unaltered dog because it takes more time. They are animals and they all deserve the most stress free and kindest grooming experience that I can possibly provide for them. If you are going to breed and sell puppies from your dog you need to know that it is going to cost a little bit more to safely and kindly keep those dogs groomed. I don't feel it is fair to charge those who have altered pets the same as those with unaltered dogs. It just takes less time to groom the altered pet so why should they have to pay the same as a dog that takes me 30 or more minutes in extra time to safely and kindly groom?
     I am not sure this will ever be an issue that some of these people will get but I just firmly tell them my position and what the charge is. I give them the choice of dealing with the extra expense or finding another establishment that is willing to do the dog without an extra charge. I have not heard of many other grooming shops charging this type of fee so I realize it can be quite unpopular, but I hope that maybe some day other groomers might consider the same type of fees for their shops. All groomers deserve to be paid for the time and labor they put into kindly and humanely grooming all the dogs that they provide care for. Glenda Ulery, "R" Dog Grooming, Rathdrum, ID

     My biggest worry is the unpredictable behavior of some pets. I'm always on guard. New customers, for example, when they walk in the shop I pay close attention to body language. I ask the pet owner questions as to what I should be made aware of.... Some dogs are very nervous... Those are potential cage poopers, fear biters. I feel the dog out carefully before even starting and if I feel the dog is aggressive or uncontrollable they will be advised to a vet who grooms so it can be tranquilized. It’s better for everyone’s welfare. Roberta Woodbury, Pampered pooch, Winchester, IN

     It depends on the breed, for example: Rottweilers in general, cannot be trusted. Usually I ask my staff to please muzzle all unneutered Rotties.
On Cocker Spaniels I ask that they muzzle the dog for the nails and work down on the front legs if it is a first time client.
     Also in my shop no dog is allowed in a kennel without a leash on. If the client does not bring a leash with the pet, we put a kennel lead on the dog so it can hang through the bars of the kennel. That way if the dog is kennel shy, it can be led out of the crate safely, without anyone getting bitten. Shaffia Galis-Menendez, Best of Breed Pet Grooming, Belleville, NJ

     The greatest problem I have is cutting nails. Most dogs have such sensitive feet. Amy Malach, Dogone Dazzlin', Two Rivers, WI

     I think a lot of problems would be nonexistent if owners crate trained their dogs. I feel the dogs would be a lot more comfortable in our establishment if they felt secure in a kennel. There would be less potty accidents, barking and fear biting. Teresa Holthe, The Bath House Pet Salon, Tacoma, WA

     My little angels come in scared, then we talk to them a lot. We do not put them in any cage until they are ok with us around. Then they’re placed in a dog playpen so they don’t feel they are punished. They love it and it is great for us.

     My biggest behavior issue is in handling fearful dogs. I've always been able to handle aggressive dogs and calm hyper dogs, but fearful dogs are tough. It's hard to gain their trust and build their confidence in the limited time you have to work with them. With fear biters I often settle for a less than perfect groom in the interest of gaining more trust for the next visit. It seems to work. Jaimie L, Pooch, Philadelphia, PA

     In 38 years of grooming pets the biggest behavioral concern for me is dogs wiggling to the point I am concerned about cutting them with the clippers. The smaller and older the dog, the worse the concern while clipping.
     Fortunately this has happened very few times in my many years of grooming but it is one of the worst things to explain to the pet owner. Their baby may only have a superficial cut but it is monumental to them.
I also do not appreciate when the owner does not watch their pet while in the entry area of my shop. They will often let their dog urinate on the products and act like it is OK. Whew, would I like to see how they would act if the shoe was on the other foot and I was to do this at their place. Linda Bruinsma, Grooming by Linda B., Rosesburg, OR

     Nails, without a doubt! That is the number one silly dog behavior I encounter – shaving out the pads is also in the top five. Unless it's a Chow – then EVERYTHING seems to be a trauma worthy of snapping the groomer's head off. Or a Husky – then it's just a water thing. (I can't even imagine the fuss if a whole sled dog team fell into a pond!) Gay Cunningham, Amigo's Mobile Pet Grooming, Nanaimo, BC, Canada

     The dog that is scared or nervous, I find working with them talking and building trust between you and the dog helps a whole lot. When I come across a dog like this I spend some time letting them know that I won't hurt them or my clippers won't hurt them. They settle down after I go through my little session with them. For instance, one client told me the dog was a biter. Well, what it came down to was that he was so scared and nervous about things and that’s why that behavior came into play. I worked with him, showing him I won't hurt him and I didn't have to muzzle him at all. She was so thrilled she referred me to another person to groom their dog. Beverly Bierwerth, East River Road Pet Grooming, Fridley, MN

     I have a mobile grooming van and it is the sound of the blower drier that upsets dogs the most. I am looking into setting it up in the back section behind the wall with the hose going on top and down over the table to alleviate this problem. Dee, Gentle Touch Mobile Groomer, Tucson, AZ

     Our greatest behavioral issue or concern in dealing with is Clippers. May Yang

     Without a doubt the worst issue I have is aggression when clipping nails. Most other issues are dealt with how I treat the dog. If I know it is sensitive to the dryer, I always start it off facing away from the dog.
I start grooming the dog then eventually when it's used to the noise I introduce the blow. Other issues such as not liking the front legs being touched are an issue and can hamper my speed, but again, slowly and gently with the dogs is the key. I have not found a way around the aggression /anxiety/ uncooperative of nail clipping yet – any advice would be great! Carol Sindle, The Grooming Pad, Fleet, Hampshire, UK

     My very worst dog that I have been doing is a Lhasa Apso (unneutered male). His owners can't handle him. He snaps and snarls when crated and hates to have his feet touched. His first few visits he did not want face touched either. He is OK with his face now. He is given a tranquilizer (by owner) before coming and I have to muzzle him when I get to his feet. It's a battle and he means business. I am firm with him and talk to him the whole time I am working on him. The dog likes me but just does not want his feet touched.
     The other is a Teacup Poodle (two pounds). She doesn't want ANYTHING DONE. I have to wrap her in a towel and work on her a little at a time. I call her the dog from hell. I am her breeder and the owner spoiled her! Other pups from same cross are not like she is. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Pat

     I don't think it is the dogs at all, it's their OWNERS clinging to them, making them think they are being dropped off to be put to death. THEY act like idiots, and the dogs feed off of that. "Oh Muffy, why are you shaking? You are soooo nervous, poor baby. She hates to be brushed, can you just give her a bath and trim? We like her fluffy, (meanwhile the dog is matted to the skin) and on and on and on." So I guess that would be considered fear related, since the owners put the fear in them. Nancy Prince, Posh Pooch, Howell, NJ

     They’re very touch sensitive and nail clipping. Michelle

     In my shop that I own/operate, Country K-9 grooming in Western New York in a town called Caledonia, I usually see the fear related issues from my dogs. The smaller dogs will shake until you think that their fur will shake off of them, because they know that lady is going to touch their feet with those big nail cutters, and then they know she will pull the hair out of their ears and make their eyes water. I think that the big and small all think they’re going to the vet’s office because they smell all of the other dogs that have been there.

     Its the dogs that "scrunch" up, like when you pick up a leg to get at the other leg and they scrunch up, and you do not have a third hand.

     I believe one of the basic problems, from which many others stem, is the lack of socialization as a pup. This manifests itself in a fear of so many things in the world outside their home life world. They come to the groomer not liking being outside that world, fearful of new faces, new hands on them, noises, and experiences. In my opinion, this makes every step in the grooming process an intrusion upon their perceived comfort zone. They may settle in with the same stylist grooming them with gentle, loving understanding. Judy Murphy, Pet Grooming by Judy, Newfane, NY

     The biggest problem we have is when the owners baby their dogs to the point of us having to literally pull them out of their owners arms while the owner is saying things like "I know baby, mommy will miss you too." The owner’s anxiety makes the dogs miserable and horribly nervous. They shake, pee and poo the whole time you’re trying to work on them. It usually takes us several visits before the dogs realize that we are not a horrible place to be. Unfortunately even when the dog is happy to see us, the owner’s behavior hasn't improved! Kristy Vliet, Just Dog Gourmet/ Dogs Rule, Washington, PA

     If by touch sensitivity, you mean aggression towards a person who touches or handles the dog in certain areas, then yes, this is by far the number one reason a dog will "go off" in my shop. Now, are we allowed to mention breeds? I will not breed discriminate; I will accept all dogs in my shop. But the breed I have the most problem with is the American Cocker Spaniel. While I do have some very well behaved Cockers, 90% are exceptionally difficult to deal with. Tracy Kaecker, Designer Fur Pet Salon, Petersburg, IL

     For the most part I find that there is more trouble with fear related issues. Fear of nail clipping, blow drying, clippers etc. I have not experienced much aggression lately because I no longer will groom those dogs. Crating is not an issue most of the time. Roxanne Aldridge, Animal Affair Pet Care, Plant City, FL

     Our biggest issues with temperament are over performing certain acts such as toenails, clipping the legs. Most of these dogs fight being held in order to perform these acts. Most of these dogs, once muzzled, resign themselves to the act and the fighting ends. The only other main temperament issue we have is getting a new, scared dog out of a crate. We now put every grooming dog on a grooming noose with a 4' kennel lead (very inexpensive) then place them in a crate. We find once we pick up the lead the dog is more willing to come out and we do not have to reach in and confront a scared dog. Deborah Straw, Prize All Breed Dog Grooming and Boarding, Spout Spring, VA

     Our greatest behavioral issue in dealing with dogs here at Ana's Ark Doggie Depot in Rockville, Maryland is their owners. If the dogs could just leave their owners at home, all would be perfectly fine. Seriously, though the most difficult problem is those dreaded nail clippings. It is so difficult for so many dogs. Anneliese M. Johnson, Ana's Ark Doggie Depot, Rockville, MD

     I don't have any problems with discipline because the dogs are with me in the same room. If they act up they get a shake of the crate or I have a squirt bottle handy. It is usually the new dogs that need to get into the routine then they are fine. Also they are noisy when they first get here then they settle down. My biggest frustration is not just the nails but all the work on the feet. I like a nice clean "Poodle" foot in the pads. After the foot work is done they are usually good. Shaking during finish scissoring is also frustrating, but we get through that.

     Hi, I have been grooming since 1976. I think my biggest complaint is overly protective and doting owners. It appears that behavioral issues pivot off of that lifestyle. The lack of doggie basics from the time they were little really puts a groomer to the test, especially the first visit.
     Another pet peeve of mine is unrealistic expectations from owners. They have a preconceived notion that their dog (who probably needs a comb-out or strip) or the big ugly Chow who hasn't seen a brush since you did it last, are your only focus that day and expect to pick it up in an unrealistic time frame. Thanks. Madeline, Bark Ave Pet Grooming, Sonora, CA

     Being mobile has its advantages when it comes to dealing with behavioral issues. I would have to say that by and large the greatest ones that I have to deal with are the dogs that are fearful of noises. Being in a small space the noise is greater then when they are in a larger space. I find sticking cotton balls in their ears before turning on the dryers helps to control them. As does starting at the back of the dog when using the force dryers. What they can't see or hear won’t hurt. Amy Kilroy, Amy's Mobile Pet Grooming Salon, Conifer, CO

     My biggest behavioral problem is not directly with the dogs, it's with their owners that can't be bothered to train them! (Their children are usually not much better). Robin Hirsch, Bayshore Grooming and Pet Resort, Tampa, FL

     In my salon it is the blow dryers. I do not kennel dry so I hand dry the dogs. Because most salons do kennel dry, the dogs are not used to the blowers and they are fearful of them. The only other real behavior issue would be aggression for nails and not liking their feet touched. Carol, Puppy Hut Salon & Spa, Port Orchard, WA

     The behavioral issues I see frequently in my shop is fear aggression from the clients who do not understand their pets need to come in more than once or twice a year. Not only does bringing their pet in more frequently keep them in better condition, saving them money, it also allows the pet to gain trust in their groomer and get used to the grooming routine. The dogs that come in more frequently do not seem to show any signs of any behavioral issues and for that I am grateful to their owners for being responsible pet owners. Erica Simonsen, The PawSpa, Hurley, SD

     The biggest behavior issue I face in my business is fear of equipment noise. I groom quite a few dogs that live outside and they are just scared to death to be in a grooming shop. They can't stand to be on the table, can't be touched for long periods of time, and just can't handle the noise of clippers or a blow dryer. It is very difficult to groom a dog that has no human contact other than to get fed daily. I have a really hard time letting the dog know that I am not going to hurt him/her. It usually takes three or four visits to earn their favor, and a lot of cookies. Sue Kessler, Happy Valley Dog Training Center and Pet Grooming, Chillicothe, IL

     As a new groomer working alone, so far my biggest concern is with small dogs and the grooming noose. I have had experiences where another person's help would have been beneficial to both the animal and me. In particular, small dogs that have never been to the grooming shop are harder to deal with than larger dogs. They fight the grooming loop and it makes it almost impossible to get the work done. If you have any suggestions for a home-based one-person operation such as mine, I would be eternally grateful! Sandy Acup, A-Plus Pet Styling, Sikeston, MO

     Grooming issues are mostly related to behavior. But the behavior depends on what the dog will experience in each and every salon. Behavior has a big factor in how the dog feels when he comes to your door, how he is handled during his bath, his handling during grooming and the total experience as a whole. It all adds up to whether a dog likes what is happening to it. Dogs are not like humans, but creatures of habit. Groomers can modify the behavior of any pet by the type of handling they practice from the time the dog arrives to when it goes home. Kelly Carroll, Top Dog Grooming, Independent Pet Advisor, Hood River, Oregon

     The behavioral issue that I have is definitely fear related. My pets first experience here we try to keep things as calm as possible, due to this problem. Pet owners simply don't interact with their pets at a young enough age. Most are scared of the high powered blow dryer the most. We ask owners to help their pet get over this fear by having them in the bathroom while blowing their own hair. Most of the time, this works. Kathleen Donahue, Lorries Pet Grooming Pomona, CA

     Our most common behavior issue is fear related behavior. Drying around the head and nail clipping being the most common. We use a calm, quiet approach with all our clients. We do not move quickly or move the dog quickly when preparing to clip nails. We pet them, use their name and praise them. Usually, we can eliminate the need for any restraint in a few visits. When drying, a good towel drying first helps and the dogs love it. We put a towel around the head when a dog really gets frightened of the dryer. When a big dog is frightened we towel dry the head, then let it air dry while we finish the work on the coat. On smaller dogs we cage dry for five minutes after the rest of the coat has been dried. I know these steps take a little longer but we have a much happier clientele and we are known for returning a calm happy dog to our two-legged clients. Ramona Ackerman, Bark Avenue Dog Salon, Madera, CA

     In my salon the most common behavioral issues are fear issues (being
handled/touched, especially nail trimming.) Many dogs in the beginning will squirm and struggle when touching or just doing their nails. After many grooming sessions these symptoms decrease and things do become easier for the pet.
     Many dogs that do show aggression during grooming in the beginning improve with patience and proper handling/praising techniques over time. I have many dogs that started out being serious fear aggressive dogs that I can easily groom today. Susanne Frederiksen, Companion Animal Services, Mississauaga, Ontario, Canada

     My greatest behavioral issue is with the owners. I have a few who bring their children with them and let them run freely thoughout the shop. I have a small shop in my garage and no one seems to respect that this is still a business. Nobody will even clean up after his or her own dog and I have a scoop and can right beside the sign asking them to please clean up. Although being a newer groomer I must say that running a close second is the touch sensitive dogs. I believe I must be getting the troublesome bunch of dogs. Peggy, PA

     To date the greatest behavioral issue has been fear related. I found that a lot of dogs (especially those who are new at the grooming practice) are very sensitive to sounds. As such blowers and dryers have been my greatest challenge. I have been able to find very good quiet clippers on the market and by introducing the clipper in a slow non-threatening manner, taking your time, the dog will accept it. All of these issues were covered as part of my curriculum in grooming school; however, I work alone and if I see that a very large dog will become aggressive, I call the owner immediately to request help. Never take a chance with a large dog that starts to show signs of aggression. Reina Ross-Christensen, Le bain du chien Dog Grooming, Duncan, British Columbia

     I think one of my greatest concerns is being able to please my new clients. I get so many that didn't like the way the last person clipped their dog. It could be because there is one in a neighboring town who isn't really up to snuff. Other then that I will not deal with totally aggressive dogs. They get sent out if the owner and I can't handle them.

     The biggest problem for us is definitely fear related. Most of our dogs get pretty good at trying to please us but our dryers are powerful enough that even I wouldn't want to get my face near them, and of course the clippers in certain areas scare them.

     I have been grooming for 35 years. In that time I have learned not to get wound up. The dryers and clippers don’t bother me as I am used to them. I love to talk to my customers and they love to talk to me. I have years of experience, which counts for a lot. If I have a nasty dog the customer will tell me so I muzzle it with their consent. I put a chain around their neck to anchor them to my bath, as a lot will escape if they could. Roseline Frayling

     My greatest problem in grooming new dogs is grooming dogs that are very elderly and have been groomed by abusive groomers. With dogs like this it takes me longer to groom them because I have to win their trust. But once I win their trust I tend to fall in love with them and even go as far as to tell their moms or dads how they have been traumatized before and to always bring them back to me so that they won’t go through it again. Reyna Sexton, DogDreams, New Whiteland, IN

     My greatest behavioral issue in dealing with dogs is by far, nail clipping. Many of the dogs I groom do not like to have their nails clipped. Sue Potts, Spotts Grooming Parlor , Leroy, OH

    And now for something completely different. I use playpens instead of cages and the males seem to forget that they are housebroken and start a leg lifting contest. I can't seem to stop them once they get started. One will start and the others will follow. Way too much mopping and cleaning. Jan'ette, Dogs Of Distinction, Lugoff, South Carolina

     Our greatest concern is the biters. Most new clients don't tell us ahead of time that they are and we have to identify them the hard way. Although we don't have that much, fortunately, it is always in the back of your mind with each new dog. Wendy Teach, Teacher's Pet

     Of course any behavior issue is a problem but I think one that is stressful is a geriatric dog that is I guess you can say borderline senile. If it is a repeat customer I try to schedule the dog in when time is not of the essence. Getting the older, over the hill dog for the first time can be very stressful on a busy strip season day or just before the holidays. I have been in a few shops where the owner has turned away the older pet telling the owner grooming is no longer an option here, and really don't think it's a fair deal to the owner. Especially if the dog has come to the shop most of it's life. I'd just like to tell the owner Prince is not going to look as pretty as he used to and explain the situation. It doesn't make the grooming any easier but at least you don't have to worry about perfection as the old dog is being topsy turvey on your table. Liz Ellis, OK

     My biggest issue is urinating in the reception area. Yuck. No matter how much I clean it and neutralize it, everyone has to out-pee everyone else. The worst was an Irish Wolfhound. It just kept going, and going and going. The owner looked nonchalant.... paid $7 for nails and LEFT! Kim Geidel, Barking Beauties Salon & S'Paw, Ellwood City, PA

      The biggest problem I see comes down to basic obedience. Unwillingness to stand still and be handled, won't walk on a leash (small dogs that are always carried). It gets even worse when it is an intact male.
Diane Meyer

     I own a doggie daycare, grooming and retail shop. Our most difficult issue would be owners who cannot control their own pets as they come in. They allow them to jump on counters and displays and use retractable leads to let them do whatever they want. Even when asked not to, they give the usual excuses and blame the dog. Dogs who bark all day for no apparent reason would run a close second. I think retractable leads should be outlawed and pet owners need to be required to take training classes. Judy Caruso, Caruso's Central Bark, Medford, NJ

   My greatest behavioral concern is fear related – nails to be specific. So many dogs come in with horribly long nails and really don't want them touched. Any help would be wonderful. Linda McCormick

     Every dog has a different experience at the mean old groomer’s salon. Ha! All of them show different behavior patterns but I would say based on an overall, I have had more problems with dogs being afraid of the power dryers! This can and will slow down the process of the dog groom, resorting to the cage dryer or a fluff dry... but trying to explain that to the impatient dog owner is impossible.
     You don’t want the dog to have a bad experience or be scared of the dryers for the rest of his/her life so you don’t want to force the dryers on the dog that doesn’t like them. To me that is just cruel and then they definitely will be worse off their next visit. But I would say that is the most frequent problem of all and it’s really just the sound of the dryer that frightens them! Gene and Misty

     It is fear related to the blowers or clippers. I am mobile so the environment is good. It is due to dogs not being experienced. ALeta Y. Sharafanowich, Aleta's Pampered Pooch, Los Alamos, CA

     I think there are two very large problems that come into my establishment:
1. Dogs that are afraid of everything. I've found that most large, very popular, overbred dogs, mainly Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and the "Doodles" are so afraid of everything; the dryers, table, clippers, being brushed. Everything frightens them to the point that the groom is almost impossible to complete, and is certainly not done to the best of your ability. Most of these dogs are not bad because they are mean and vicious, but they constantly yank on the noose, try to jump off the table, lay flat when trying to dry or clip them, bite at the dryer, and bark constantly when you do things they don't like.
2. Dogs that HATE to have their feet and faces touched. It doesn't matter what size the dog is, I would have to say I muzzle about half of the dogs I get in my shop when I shave paw pads and trim toenails. These dogs hate having their feet touched in any way, even if you're trimming excess hair around them. I've found that most people play with their dog's feet as a game, and in return, the dog nips. It's a vicious circle that just aggravates the issue at hand when it comes to grooming. Also, my other problem is dogs that hate to have their faces groomed. These dogs are the ones who pull, twist, bite, do whatever it takes to make you get away from their face again, possibly because owners play with them or because children have made them head-shy. Who knows?
These dogs have gotten used to telling their owners what they can and can not do to them, not the other way around. It's a lack of training and exposure to outside elements; being taught that they should not fear every little noise, or be babied when they don't like something. I enjoy grooming the smaller breeds because of this. They may be smaller, and have a little bit more of a mean streak as far as biting, but they are easier to control and do calm down after a while (most of them, anyway).
This is why I enjoy taking puppies. Puppies may be unruly at first, and test your limits as they get older, but they can be worked with, and you can stop the owners from playing with their feet, faces and get the dogs used to being touched on the head before the problem gets so bad it's difficult to fix. Puppies and puppy owners can be molded easily because it is a learning process for both of them, and both are usually willing to do whatever it takes to please one another without argument. Megan Heffernan, Buffalo Grove, IL

     I would have to say that the biggest issue for me is a dog that has had a bad experience with other groomers. They are generally really afraid of everything. In time they come around when they are with me but the first couple of times is tough.
     Booking days so that they are NOT stressful is much healthier for groomer and pet. It's not all about the money but the realization that you are working with very sensitive beings. They pick up on everything and a relaxed environment is most important to have happy pets. Sandra Rose, Classy Canines, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

    My greatest behavioral issue is just the fear of the other dogs and/or noise of the kennel. Unfortunately, it is rather noisy because we do not have the grooming area set up quite right yet. I have just started grooming this year after five years of being in the military, so any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Tracy Lowe, Lexy's Kennels & Supplies, Philadelphia, NY

  My biggest concern is aggressive pets. Trying to shave clean faces while they try to bite. There's nothing to hold on to. My biggest annoyance is particular pets that are guaranteed to relieve themselves on my floor. I try to run them outside, but I shouldn't have to. Thanks, Mary M

     Our biggest behavioral issue is barking dogs. We have several problem barkers, and oddly enough, the worst ones are the ones that come the most often! We have several Poodles or Shih Tzus that come in every week or every other week, and they bark almost non stop from the time you put them in the crate until the time they leave. We used to have a big open room where the dogs could see everything, but we recently built a wall separating the drying/bathing area from the grooming area and that actually seemed to help a little since they couldn't see everyone walking by the window. Sometimes we can bring the smaller dogs in their kennels into the grooming room and that seems to help some of the time, but we just don't have room to do that with the big ones!

     I believe that the most common behavior issue I've dealt with in grooming has always been fear related and upon opening and operating a kennel-free pet spa, I've learned that the crate/kennel fear has been clearly taken away from my clients. They're happier to be at the shop and have less anxiety by the time they leave my shop! (Of course that doesn't rid the toenail trimmers fear! Bummer!) Stacey Lynn Witner, The Paw Spa, Lomita, CA

     My biggest doggy related behavior problem is when the owner comes through the door, and the dog is shaking, and/or whining, and the owner is catering to the dog, by saying things like, "poor baby," or "why are you so scared," and then the owner feels guilty, and the dog barks as they leave, or cries, etc… then the owner finally leaves, and the dog is usually fine for the rest of the groom. Happy, quiet, and usually well behaved, minus a few quirks.
     If more owners would just walk in and hand you the dog and say "bye fluffy, I'll see you later" and just walk away... it would save the groomer so much time, and the dogs wouldn't be as stressed. I love the owners who walk in and put their own dogs in the kennel and say... "I'll be back at 4." Their dogs aren't perfect but they don't have the anxiety that the "poor baby" dogs have. Tracy S., Ospika Grooming, PG, BC

     My greatest fear is when my employees (groomers) handle a scared or unruly pet incorrectly. Second – Fear of pets that injure themselves trying to escape the cage. Third – Employees getting seriously bitten. Fourth – I fear lifting large pets and injuring my back. Fifth – Giving the wrong pet to the wrong owner. Sixth – I have fear of tick or lice infestation in my kennel area. Seventh – Fear of a pet escaping from my care into the street, regardless of precautions.

     The greatest behavioral issue in my shop is the Dremel tool. I wouldn't use anything else for the nails. The clients love the rounded nails, the dogs however, are a little more apprehensive (most tolerate them). Judy Adams, Dirty Dog Gone Salon, Garner, NC

     Being in the mobile business for many years generates a lot of four legged children that are geriatric and sometimes very feeble. My biggest fear is death on the table. Stress is one of my main concerns for both the pet and me. Nightmares of being bitten are one thing but the edge of the other side within a breath is scarier yet. We try and keep things quiet and always one hand on the pet, lots of nice voice prompts and quick groomings. There's action and words for biters, jumpers, scratchers, pukers, doo dooers, circlers, screamers, howlers, but not too many words for death on the table. Fortunately in all these years our worst nightmare has never come true, I hope I'm not at a loss of words if it does, sorry never compensates for a great geriatric customer. Jody Currin, Grooming for Shear Delight, Mobile Pet Grooming, Erwin, NC

     I have been in the business for over 30 years and to this day I have always been the most concerned about personal safety. We work on difficult dogs but I have a limit. If the stress of a particular dog also affects my staff we refuse the dog. No amount of money is worth personal safety and stress. If a dog ruins your whole day it affects the other dogs as well and that is not fair. I have an excellent reputation in this field and want to continue to enjoy my job and not have to fight burn-out. I love to go to work each day so give the bad dogs to the vets for sedation. Enjoy your job, it's full of kisses! Shellie Nelson, In-Dog-Neat-O, Bismarck, ND

     Mine is the worst fear! I get rejects from other dog shops. I work one on one. I talk baby talk to all the dogs and it seems to keep them comfortable. It's like dog whisperer. Give me your footie for clipping nail. Don't peek and it won't hurt!
     I had the one dog mixed with a Jack Terrier/Cocker. Did just fine shaving it down to look like a Beagle. Got everything done, nails, shaving the pads. I told her she was a good girl. Kissed her on the nose... then she told me how she felt. Twelve stitches to the lip. They took her to the vet's and put her under.
     I had another reject from dog shops from the area. He was fine with me until I took out the brush to get all the undercoat out. Nailed me on both hands. Got me in my face again. Chow/Samoyed-Kita. Still wagging his tail. Should of known better! So another lip lock to the face. Another ten stitches. Of course the bite wounds can't be stitched. Put me out of business for nine weeks.
     I don't use muzzles. But, I guess I should with new clients. That I don't know. All the others are just fine that I groom.
     I do not do cats anymore either. Bad gritty kitties! One went up with its claws up my pants leg. That hurt like the dickens! Maureen Gasperetti, Grooming by Moe, Chespaeake, VA

     I find the most difficult issue is that pet parents wait too long before the first grooming on their new puppy. By the time I see some of the new clients they are very fearful and aren't socialized properly. They are all over the table and are really freaked out by the humming of the clippers and the force dryers. It is totally traumatic for the little guys. It is also very hard for the groomer working with eight-inch shears close to these thin skinned babies. Dangerous really!
     Another factor is older patients. They are not as tolerant as they once were. Crabby really. They just want to be home asleep lounging in the sun. They have a harder time standing for long periods of time. We have to be mindful of their aches and pains. This is where patience comes into play. We must be sympathetic. Thanks. Amy Cazaubon, Petstylist, Louisiana

     I believe the first biggest issue is simply the stress of all of the noise combined... barking dogs, dryers, etc. One other issue I have been having problems with is a nasty puppy! I believe the problem is lack of discipline and training at home. I try to address this issue with my human clients as delicately as possible, explaining to them the importance of getting the pups used to brushing and sitting for short periods without chewing or biting. I have suggested obedience training to a few, and the response from the clients is a look of disgust!
     The typical question I get is, "So are you telling me you don't want to groom my dog anymore?" I tell them very nicely that of course I want to groom their dog, but a little work at home would relieve the anxiety and stress for the dog while at the groomers and therefore the biting may eventually stop. I try all of the tactics known to me to get these puppies to trust me, and I never yell or hurt them. (Except for the ear hair pulling ... I hate that part.) I talk very sweet and work slowly, letting them see and smell and hear the clipper, scissors, etc. before attempting to actually touch them with it. It works for a few, but there are some I simply have to muzzle because they bite and draw blood! I've had my other employees talk to them, try to distract them. We encourage good behavior. I hate having to muzzle puppies that are three, four, five months of age, but I cannot constantly get bit either. Apparently my approach to their owners is not working so well!

     The greatest concern I have when dogs come into my kennel, whether for boarding or grooming, is confinement. I've had to turn away a small handful of clients for boarding, all of which their dogs tried to shred their pens. I've had dogs come in for grooming which do fine until I have to put them in a crate and they proceed to defecate all over themselves. If it helps, I live in a rural area, so most of these dogs are outdoor dogs to begin with. Beth Fisher, Divinity Kennels, Franklin, WV

     My biggest behavioral issue/concern when grooming pets is probably nail trimming. I have a small shop so I do all my bathing and grooming by myself. It takes a lot of time and patience to gain their trust especially if the nails have been cut too deep before. I expect this ahead of time and allow time. With a soft voice and trusting hands, the nails get trimmed. Becky Holyfield (owner), Outback Dog Grooming, Pace, FL

     Our biggest problems result from owners who do not begin bringing their dogs in young and frequently enough to become used to the process. The owners assume grooming is going to be traumatic, so wait until the puppy is eight months old, and very matted, thereby ensuring a traumatic first grooming experience. We recommend bringing puppies in when they are eight weeks old, and keeping a regular schedule based upon each individual dog's needs. Dogs that are used to us handling them are much less of a problem even if they don't like the process. They learn that we aren't going to hurt them, so when we do things they don't like their warnings are usually not serious. Jackie Fogel, Cedar Creek Pet Resort, Jackson, WI

     I am usually able to get around most of the aggression and fear issues. Lately I was having a lot of trouble with dogs that just won't stand up. Even with support systems and such they draw their hind legs up to their bodies and kind of scrunch up.

     The greatest issue I see is fear related. It seems the new dogs I see are afraid of the entire process. (I also am gaining a reputation around this area, so the most difficult ones are now getting sent my way.) I always see improvement in my establishment when they come frequently and I believe that is a result of gentle tactics. When a new dog or pup comes in, it's an all day event. They watch a seasoned dog get a grooming first, and then I introduce everything to them in a slow manner with lots of praise. I also do everything the same way every time from then on out. I have dogs that lift the next leg for me to wash because they've memorized the routine! I have calming music playing that I sing with while they are being groomed. Patience, lots of love, understanding and consistency are all most of these dogs need to get over the hump when feeling fearful. Betsy, OH

     My biggest behavioral issue is not the dogs at all, but the owners! Even if I set pick up times, many clients feel that I am an all day sitter and then their dog has to stay crated all day while waiting to be picked up. Other clients are late and then upset when I have to rebook their appointment, and there are the clients who are so concerned that they fuss over and make the poor dog nervous before leaving. As far as the dogs go, mine are great, but commonly dislike having front feet and legs groomed. I have not come up with a solution for this yet. Laura, Pampered Paws Pet Spa, Barrhead, CN

     I would have to say crating the dogs (some) is the biggest issue in my shop. I take them outside to relieve themselves before I even start their grooming, but they get so nervous being crated, they go to the bathroom in their crate. This is a problem when they are all groomed and ready to go home, but waiting for their owners, which sometimes don't show up for an hour or more later. Jean's Pooch Spa, Dudley, MA

     After 40 years in the grooming industry, I think it's difficult to lump things together, so here's my read on things: I would say the most common problem is with the pet who has not been groomed on a regular basis, and refuses to submit to the injustice of getting an overdue grooming performed. Next, I would select the problem dog that has not learned that he or she is not the head honcho.
     Next, I would say fear of blow dryers. Follow that up with fear of water or confinement. Usually, fear of clippers is mainly a puppy problem that can be worked out. Also, quiet clippers help here. Cage fright is an infrequent but dangerous problem unless recognized and managed up front. Aggression is certainly a handling problem, but because warning will usually be given it is not necessarily dangerous. These dogs, once recognized, are muzzled by rote.
     The most dangerous situation I think is due to handler invasion of an individual pet's required space. It is caused by failure to recognize an individual pet's fight/flight point. This can result in a sudden, unexpected attack that will usually result in a severe bite. Staff training helps here.
So-o-o I think the most dangerous situations would be cage fright or the pet's individual space limitations, both of which can trigger attack without warning. Caroline Roden

     I am only been in this business a short time (three years) but my biggest behavioral issue is nail clipping. As for dogs coming into my establishment I have overcome most issues by making the establishment as friendly as possible. I burn incense and play music (easy listening) and very important, I greet the dog on their level on the floor. In dealing with nail clipping I have started filing nails instead of clipping and I am using the Tellington TTouch method to help relax the animal. Jeff Martin, Companions Grooming, Denver, NC

     Barking. We are in a multiplex building with thin walls. Need to keep everyone quiet for the other tenants. Midge Tucker, Midge's Pet Grooming Greeley, CO

     I have found that most of the dogs come to me and are scared at first. When a dog is scared and doesn't trust you they feel they have to defend themselves because you are a threat. I take my time and talk and pet the dog and feel him out to see if he is scared or just mean. If he is only scared I will take my time with him so he will see that I mean him no harm. They usually become more relaxed and let me get on with the grooming.
If the dog is just plain mean, because of improperly raising him, this is another issue all together. Now you are dealing with a temperament that has been let to be the alpha in the house, therefore he feels he should be in the grooming room, or anywhere else for that matter. This is a difficult dog to come to terms with because it is the owner’s fault he is like this and owners do not like to be told they are not raising their dogs the right way. So in these cases I will try to talk to the clients and guide them as to ways to remedy this behavior, and if this doesn't work, I will do the dog muzzled if he permits it. If not, they go home.
     I believe the temperament of dogs is the most important issue in the grooming business. A bad dog can take the time of two good dogs. Marianne Mazzenga, Furkids, Starfire Giant Schnauzers, Shelby Township, MI

     At my shop, I would say the biggest behavior issue would be the fact that so many dogs aren't trained to stand still throughout the whole grooming session. Many wiggle, spin, move, try to sit, shake their heads, whatever! It is frustrating if you have several dogs like this back-to-back. You can become frazzled easily, so it's important to take a deep breath and keep going. I find that most dogs will come around after a few grooming sessions. It is our job to help train these guys to learn to groom. Ann, New Mexico

     Well, to start the biggest behavioral issue that comes to grooming is separation anxiety! I don't mean from the dogs. The owner’s separation anxiety is a huge issue. It makes the dog uneasy and he or she has a little more anxiousness than he should have. These are the customers that want to know "will the dog be done in 15 minutes?” The dogs being uneasy leads into a host of problems like cage shyness, clippers, noise anxiety and dryer drama to name a few. The key is to gain trust in the customer first then the dog. The K-9 BeautyQueen

Bar none, my biggest problem with dogs I groom are doing nails. Either the owner or the vet (or other) has quicked the dog's toes at some point. It is amazing how a dog never forgets this and can make the part of the groom a real challenge. We use a Dremel which, when done with practice, can eliminate quicking. The initial noise takes some getting used to by the dog, but nine out of ten times when they figure out I'm not going to hurt their tootsies, they are great about it! Kathie, Paws of Paradise, Kauai, Hawaii

     The customer. Most of the issues listed in your question stem from the owners of the pets themselves. We as professional groomers should learn to assess our customer. Pets are products of their environment.
Let me give you an example, the nervous customer doesn't want you to put the pet in the crate, this pet is likely never to have experienced crate training and may be crate shy and want to bite you when you reach in to get it. The owner that brings you the matted mess (five-year-old Maltese) and wants you to brush it out. The owner has very short hair of their own, but wants a long haired dog. They say they have been trying to brush it and it won't let them.
     Well we know the rest of the story. We end up trying to save some of the coat as the dog struggles with us on the table. Then the dog comes unglued as we have to shave those tender spots, all of which can cause injuries, clipper burns, brush burns and biting. Let’s not forget making us sweat and stress over the outcome when the owner returns for pick up and says “Oh my God you did a great job, but your price is to high.” I can go on and on about behavioral problems with dogs and cats but I want all groomers to take a good look at our customer being the root of most of the problems we experience in our salons.
     The grooming tools we have today are the greatest; we have everything we need to tackle the jobs. What we need are the tools and knowledge to correct our customer and help them have a better understanding about how they play a part in their pet’s issues about grooming. Angela Moritz, owner, Four Paws N' Tail, Palm Desert CA

     The biggest issue that we see is problems with dogs fearing nail clipping/grinding and crate aggression. Kristle Marangon, Anne Bunn, K-9 Klub Inc.

     The biggest problem we have is with screamers. From the neurotic Toy Poodle that squeals any time you touch it or if you leave it alone on the bench to answer the phone to the Lhasa Apso that hates the dryer. We find that most of them have been taught to scream by owners who let go when they scream at an early age when doing something they don't like, unknowingly positively reinforcing the negative behavior. These dogs learn that if they scream, you let go, therefore dog wins! Not in my salon! It does take a lot of patience to untrain these problem pets but it can be done. Happy Grooming. Emily Gregory, Animal Magic Pet Grooming Salon, Gold Coast, Australia

     We find that if the dogs are handled with a gentle hand that we do not have very many issues to deal with. We will occasionally have some cage shy dog that we just take special precautions with, i.e.: putting a leash on before putting the dog in a cage. I am happy to report that we have some great dogs that come into our shop and the newbies are always handled with special care to make the experience happy.

     At the moment the worse problem we have is Westies having their nails clipped. They throw a wobbler and piss all over you at the same time. We are also sick of customers saying, “my dog got out. I only just got it back. It has been away four days and it’s all matted!” Do we believe them? No way.

     I believe the pet’s owner, probably starting within the 24 hour period before the grooming appointment causes the greatest behavioral issue. The dog, being a creature of habit, responds to the owner’s behavior, which probably starts changing the eve before, or at least early the morning of the pet's grooming appointment. The owner acts differently, changes the normal routine, etc. runs around acting different then he or she does every other day, and thereby sets up a stressful situation for the dog, who knows it’s not the normal routine. Of course, most dogs don't get fed extra breakfast, and thrown into the car and whisked off to anywhere first thing most mornings.
      Then, there's the hugging, kissing, petting, and more hugging, kissing, and petting, and a few treats, along with some last minute frantic cell phone calls to whomever, and then they arrive at the groomer’s, with some more hysteria, and by the time they get in the door, it's any wonder either dog or owner is even a little in it's right mind! I usually feel we can put the dog at ease once we get it in our care and treat it in a manner it understands. We try our best to educate the owners how to behave in the 24 hrs. leading up to the dogs grooming appointment. Betty Ryan, Creekside Grooming, Winchester, VA

     I would have to say when dogs start to stress or become panicked and tense up. How it is greatly overlooked by a lot of groomers to where they look at it as if a muzzle is then needed or an extra person to help confine the dog. I myself go about it differently if signs of stress occur for any reason. I will try to go about it in a different way or go to a more secluded environment where fewer dogs might be or less noise. If that doesn't work I will stop and not go any further until I either call or wait till customer arrives.
I explain that I attempted but your dogs stressed to the point where I did not proceed because I would rather have their dog come walking through our doors all happy go lucky and excited to come to the grooming salon rather than have them fighting and resisting the owner all the way into the salon. I have yet to find a customer dissatisfied with that choice. I have only come across that the customers respected me more for it and have even requested me time and time again.
     I would not want a groomer to be grooming my personal dogs who have little bathing and being confined in kennels issues to force my dogs to do things that make them stress out. I would hope they would consider that a