Grooming is one of the essential aspects of keeping your dog clean, healthy, and happy. Yet, many pet owners are inquisitive as to whether their furry friends get distressed or “cry” during the process. Dogs do not cry like human beings do; however, they have their own ways of indicating discomfort, stress, or anxiety during grooming.
Signs Your Dog May Be Stressed During Grooming
- Whining or Whimpering – If your dog is vocalizing during grooming, it may be a sign of distress, fear, or discomfort.
- Excessive Panting – Heavy breathing when not caused by heat can indicate nervousness or stress.
- Struggling or Resistance – If your dog tries to escape, pulls away, or squirms, they may be feeling uneasy.
- Tail between legs or laid down ears – A tail down and pinned ears can indicate the dog is frightened or afraid
- Tears or watery eyes – Since dogs don’t cry, but their eyes water due to irritations such as shampoo, clippers, or stress
Common Causes for Dogs Hating Grooming
- Fear of strange devices: clippers, scissors, and blow dryer can be quite scary and they make so much noise.
- Past Negative Experiences: A painful grooming session in the past may lead to long-term fear.
- Sensitive Skin or Mats: Tangled fur or sensitive areas can make brushing or clipping painful.
- Lack of Grooming Exposure: Dogs that aren’t groomed regularly may find the process overwhelming.
How to Make Grooming a Fun Experience
- Gradual Introduction: Gradually start exposing your pet dog to grooming tools to make them less scared.
- Reward: Treats and praise them when they seem quiet.
- Comfort: Soft touch, proper set of grooming tools, and comfortable warm water bath.
- Interruption: Pause if your dog is getting too anxious and then proceed.
- Professional Assistance: If your dog is highly anxious, take him to a professional groomer who has worked with nervous animals.
Dogs do not shed tears of sadness during grooming. However, there are other ways dogs express distress. Learning to understand their body language and how to make the grooming experience enjoyable will keep your pup relaxed and comfortable. If you have the patience, the training, and the right approach, grooming becomes a wonderful bonding time for you and your furry friend.