Everything you need to know to make your dog's first groom a success
A great first grooming experience sets the foundation for a lifetime of stress-free appointments. A bad one can create lasting anxiety. This guide covers everything — from preparing at home to what happens after you pick up your freshly groomed pup.
Want the full picture? Keep reading — or jump to any section below.
At-home practice with handling paws, ears, and getting used to brush and clipper sounds.
Comfort items that help: favorite toy, blanket, special treats, even a worn t-shirt.
What to tell your groomer about fears, sensitivities, medical issues, and preferred style.
What to look for, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Why dramatic goodbyes make anxiety worse — and what to do instead.
The psychology behind it, and why staying actually makes things harder.
Step-by-step walkthrough: bath, dry, brush, haircut, nails, ears, and finishing touches.
Time expectations by breed and coat type — and why rushing is never worth it.
Why dogs act tired or weird after grooming, when to worry, and what's totally normal.
How to tell the difference between normal tiredness and actual trauma.
Understanding the difference and how to help your dog recover.
The right age to start (12-16 weeks), what happens, and why we go slow.
Special considerations for adult dogs with unknown history or past trauma.
Joint issues, shorter sessions, and extra patience for older pups.
First-time grooms are priced the same as regular appointments. We don't charge extra for patience — that's just how we work.
| Size | Basic Groom |
|---|---|
| Extra Small (under 10 lbs) | $62 |
| Small (10-25 lbs) | $68 |
| Medium (26-50 lbs) | $75 |
| Large (51-80 lbs) | $88 |
| Extra Large (81+ lbs) | $96 |
New puppies and first-timers are always welcome.