DE-SENSITIZING YOUR PUP'S EARS AND PAWS

Grooming tools can look and sound intimidating. To a puppy, a pair of clippers or a nail dremel can seem like a scary monster. To desensitise your puppy, let them sniff and inspect each tool. Let the clippers vibrate in your hand while they get a treat. Gently touch their paws with the clippers turned off, then on, always pairing the experience with high-value rewards. This is also the time to practice holding their paws and toes for nail trims, as well as cleaning their ears. The goal is to introduce each tool in a calm, non-threatening way, so they see them as a normal part of the routine.

Making Nail Trims and Ear Cleaning a Breeze

Your puppy's paws and ears are two of the most sensitive areas to groom. A calm, step-by-step introduction is crucial to avoid creating a lifelong fear.

Desensitizing Your Puppy to Nail Tools

The sound and feel of nail clippers or a grinder can be scary. To get started, simply hold the clippers or grinder in your hand while you pet your puppy. Let them see and sniff the tool. You can even tap it on the floor so they get used to the sound.

Next, gently touch the clippers to their paw or a single nail without actually trimming. This helps them get used to the sensation. Be sure to reward them with a treat after each step. Once they're comfortable with this, you can move on to actually clipping a nail. If using a grinder, turn it on its lowest setting from a distance and gradually move it closer. The goal is to make the experience routine and non-threatening.

Prepping for Ear Cleaning

Your puppy's ears will need to be cleaned regularly to prevent infections. This can be an uncomfortable process if they aren't used to it.

Start by gently touching and massaging their outer ears. Lift their ear flaps and give them a treat. Slowly work your way up to touching the inside of their ears with your finger. Once they are comfortable with that, introduce a cotton ball dampened with an ear-cleaning solution. Gently wipe the inside of their ear, but never insert anything deep into the ear canal.

Just like with the other grooming tools, keep these sessions short and positive. The goal is to build a positive association with the experience.

Remember, the time and patience you invest now will pay off immensely, making their first professional grooming session—and all those after it—a happy and successful one.