Grooming Aggressive Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

UNDERSTANDING WHY DOGS SHOW AGGRESSION

SIGNS OF AGGRESSION IN DOGS

• SNARLING 
• BITING 
• NIPPING 
• GROWLING

• They may bark in an aggressive tone in the form of a threatening growl or bark
• The dog may start growling when their wishes aren't followed 
• Snarling (baring teeth when growling)
• Nipping the groomer
• A quick succession of bites 
• Biting followed by shaking and shaking while growling at the individual 
• Remaining still and not obeying an owner's or carer's instructions
• Mouthing a person against his or her wishes in an effort to exert control 
• A quick bite that leaves a mark, bruise or puncture in or on the skin 

TIPS FOR GROOMERS AND OWNERS ON DEALING WITH AGGRESSIVE DOGS  

Groomer’s POV:

• Divert the dog’s attention by asking them perform a little trick, offering them a treat and then rewarding the behavior with positive reinforcement techniques can help you get started with the grooming process. Further, it will help put the dog at ease and allow it to open up to you while establishing a form of trust. 
• You can fimiliarise such a dog by offering their owner quick and frequent sessions. Many people who own aggressive dogs struggle to find good groomers they can stick to; if you're willing to offer short and quick sessions to such customers, it'll not only put them at ease but also help the dog adapt to your grooming techniques, products and Equipment. 
• Use positive reinforcement ALWAYS! We can not lay emphasis on the fact that punishing or yelling at a dog will only make them more scared and aggressive. Therefore, only allow them to make positive associations. Giving them a good experience will make your and their life easy. 
• If your pooch isn't familiar with grooming tools, they are likely to react. Their natural instincts as hunters will trigger a reaction where they might perceive tools as an external threat in an unfamiliar setting. The solution is simple: get your dog used to grooming tools. Allow them to sniff around, touch or even smell tools before you use them allowing them pooch enough time to develop a sense of safety around them, then continue with your work as usual. 
• Scheduling an introduction to grooming just to help them get used to the tools and environment, letting the dog have a couple of happy, happy visits. Communicating with the owner and working with them on repeating similar processes at home, how often you should do this, etc. Take it slow, basically; this will allow the dog to adapt to the processes, making both the groomers and the owner's lives easier without causing any discomfort to the dog as well.
• As a groomer, you must ensure the environment is quiet, calm and peaceful. Often, the poor animals feel discomfort, which makes their visit to the vet or groomer unpleasant. When you offer a pleasant environment, naturally, their association with the process becomes pleasant, and they do not resist it. Instantly, you have a calmer dog and the process makes it more convenient in the long run for both groomers and owners. 
• Distraction is another effective tool. Asking your dog to perform an easy trick or action (such as 'sit' or 'shake paw') and offering treats when they start showing signs of agitation always helps. A lot of dogs coming to the groomers are big and chunky, carrying heavy coats, which is why they are bound to get tired from the process and exhibit discomfort in the form of aggression and resistance. Taking frequent breaks, playing music or opening a window can help make the grooming process smooth.
• A calm and steady demeanour from the groomer can significantly ease a dog's anxiety. If you're calm and confident, the dog will submit, but if you're exhibiting fear, they will try to assert dominance by showing signs of aggression. Therefore, it is crucial that a groomer maintain their demeanour. 
• Encourage owners to regularly handle their dogs in areas like the face, feet, and tail. This simple practice can make a world of difference. When dogs are familiar with being touched in these areas, they tend to be more cooperative during grooming sessions, making the process smoother and less stressful for both the groomer and the pet.
• Use preventive measures in unexpected situations; if the dog is showing clear signs of aggression, it is important for the safety of both the pet and the groomer that they are put on a leash and muzzled. Put more than one groomer on the case to make the handling easier and the process quicker. 

Owner’s POV:

• Starting early: It's best to get your pup used to grooming as soon as possible. Therefore, owners should start taking them to groomers, helping them get used to being around tools and groomers themselves. This will make the process easier when they grow up.
• Establish a routine: Establishing a regular and consistent grooming routine is key for puppies and adult dogs alike. When they're used to frequent visits to the groomers, they are less likely to react aggressively. Owners should have introduced them to tools like nail clippers and hairdryers even when home, making the transition to the groomers easier. 
• Providing comfort: Make sure the environment is comfortable for your dogs, with minimal distractions, noise, and commotion. One bad trip to a groomer can turn into  life-long negative association for our furry friends. Therefore, only opt for well reputed and trusted groomers to handle your dog. Speak in a comforting voice and be patient. If you sense your pup is getting anxious, take a break and try again when they're feeling more relaxed.
• Use rewards and positive reinforcement: Encourage good behavior at the groomers with treats or toys and reward your pup for staying calm during the process if you stay with them during their visit or even afterwards. Positive reinforcements and rewarding will have your pooch establish a positive association with the groomers and the process, making them look forward to it instead of showing resistance. 
• Let your pooch take their time: It's important to take things slowly and introduce new tools gradually so as not to overwhelm your dog. If you introduce tools at home or let them sniff around the groomer's tools, it is likely that they will calm down and get used to being around them. 
• Practise desensitization and counter-conditioning: If needed, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional groomer who specializes in grooming aggressive dogs. At WeKnowYourDogs, you can trust your pup is in good hands. Look for groomers with a ‘no fear badge’ who specialise in handling aggressive dogs.
• Have patience: Grooming an aggressive dog takes time and determination, but with commitment, you can help your pooch feel more comfortable and relaxed during the process. Do not force them; the process may take more than one visit to the groomers. Perhaps you should tell the groomer exactly how you groom him or her at home so they know the sequence in which you do things, which might be really helpful.

CONCLUSION

Understand that it might take a few grooms to accomplish everything as the groomer will need to build trust with your dog, and that won't come immediately. Make sure the groomer understands that you aren't expecting perfection but want to make it a working situation and will do what is best for your dog and the groomer's safety.

Time, dedication, and commitment are key to building trust with a dog.