Grooming an aggressive dog can be a daunting task. In this post, our Scottsdale vets explain the reasons for aggression in some dogs during grooming, and how you can best put your pup at ease.
Aggression in Dogs
Many dogs show aggressive behavior that can become a problem for their owners and families. While almost all wild animals are aggressive by instinct when guarding their territories, defending themselves, or protecting their young, when animals are adopted as pets it's important to address any aggressive behavior with training.
Aggression can involve a wide range of behaviors that can lead to attacks and injuries (including dog bites when grooming).
Signs of aggression in dogs include:
- Threatening growl or bark
- Remaining still and not obeying instructions
- Growling when the dog's wishes aren't followed
- Snarling (baring teeth when growling)
- Mouthing the groomer
- A quick bite that leaves a mark
- A quick succession of bites
- Biting followed by shaking
In aggressive dogs, any of these symptoms may appear exclusively or in combination.
Aggressive Dog Grooming Issues
Dealing with aggressive dogs during grooming sessions takes extra care, caution, and training to keep both your pooch and the groomer safe (whether you choose to groom your dog yourself or make an appointment with our professional groomers at Scottsdale Ranch Animal Hospital).
An aggressive dog may bite or show other aggressive behaviors during grooming sessions for numerous reasons - whether they are feeling anxious, fearful, confused, or have had previous bad experiences while being groomed.
If your pup has had previous poor experiences while being groomed, they may act extremely defensive the next time they enter a grooming space. The dog may attempt to bite anyone who approaches or tries to touch them.
Why do dogs become aggressive at the groomers?
There are several reasons why dogs may become aggressive toward groomers. One common reason is fear and anxiety due to unfamiliar surroundings, loud noises, or being handled by strangers. Dogs are naturally territorial animals and may feel threatened in a grooming environment where they are unable to escape.
Another reason for aggression at the groomers could be past negative experiences, such as being handled roughly or experiencing pain during grooming sessions. Dogs may associate the groomers with discomfort or fear, leading them to react aggressively as a form of self-defense. It is important for groomers to establish trust with the dog, use positive reinforcement techniques, and create a calm and safe environment to help reduce aggression during grooming sessions.
Grooming an Aggressive Dog
Since your canine friend will need to be groomed regularly, you'll need to train your dog to tolerate grooming. Our groomers recommend keeping these tips in mind and building trust with your pup when it's time to bathe and groom your dog. The less stress any pet is put under, the more calm and cooperative they will be.
Start Grooming Early
Introducing your dog to grooming (and going to the groomer) as a puppy will save you a lot of anxiety and stress later on. Puppies enjoy new experiences and are open to socialization and learning. This makes it easier to teach them to accept regular grooming. While it is not impossible to groom an older dog with previous negative experiences, you will need to devote more time and patience to training.
Use Positive Reinforcements
Positive reinforcement helps with training and can also be used for grooming. Giving them a treat before going to the groomer (or before an at-home grooming session) can help keep them calm. You might want to reward them with another treat for sitting patiently during their bath and grooming.
Let Your Dog Explore the Equipment
Until your dog is completely comfortable being groomed, keep sessions brief and make an effort to introduce groomers, grooming equipment, and new procedures, giving your pup time to become acquainted and comfortable with them. Allow your dog to sniff around the grooming area before settling in, and then praise and reward him.
Once your dog can understand the groomer and the equipment isn't intended to hurt them, grooming will go smoother for everyone.
Use Preventive Measures if Necessary
Some aggressive dogs may not relax during grooming sessions, despite your best efforts. However, they will still require grooming. Some solutions may include anxiety-reducing jackets (used during nail trims), organic and natural medications, or muzzles. Speak with your veterinarian about which option(s) will be best for your dog, as well as any medications you intend to use, before administering them to your pup.
If you choose to have our professional groomers in Scottsdale do the job for you, rest assured that we have the knowledge and experience needed to groom all types of dog coats and work with animals of a wide range of temperaments, including those that are stressed, anxious or aggravated.
In circumstances where an animal is especially aggressive or fearful, we may recommend sedation during a grooming session. However, most of the time we can manage these types of dogs by taking the advice listed above and taking the following steps:
- Offering treats
- Taking frequent breaks
- Playing music or opening a window
- Ensuring the environment is quiet, calm, and peaceful
- Asking your dog to perform an easy trick or action (such as 'sit' or 'shake paw')
At Scottsdale Ranch Animal Hospital, we always look forward to meeting your four-legged friends and providing advice to help keep your dog happy and healthy. Alternatively, we'd love to take the job of grooming off your hands to get this important task done right, with minimal fuss.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.