Tips on Choosing a Dog Groomer

Choosing a dog groomer is very important for long haired breeds like the Coton de Tulear.

Choosing a dog groomer is important for long hair breeds. There are several breeds, the Coton de Tulear among them, that do better being groomed by a professional unless you want to teach yourself to become semi-professional. The trimming is time consuming and requires skills that many of us don’t have.

A professional dog groomer will have a wide variety of brushes and clippers for every type of coat, pet dryers, bath tubs, secure tables, and leashes to keep the dog from moving around too much. They also have the experience to know exactly what your particular breed requires for proper grooming.

Choosing a dog groomer should be done with at least as much care as you take for choosing your hair stylist and even more important to choose wisely since you won’t be there to make sure your dog is cared for properly.

So, how do you find a good dog groomer?

Word of mouth is always a good way to find a good dog groomer. Ask your friends, relatives, neighbors, and co-workers who own pets.
Many veterinarians have incorporated grooming into their clinics, so you can start there. If your veterinarian is not associated with a groomer, he may have a list of recommended groomers.
Other sources of recommendations include boarding kennels that don't have their own grooming service, pet supply stores, shelters, and purebred breeders.

After getting some recommendations, make sure to ask the prospective groomer questions about services and costs, pick-up and delivery, and whether they use tranquilizers to calm the dog.

Visit the groomer without the dog first to make sure the shop is well-lit and clean, that the groomer and assistants handle the dogs gently, that older and special needs animals are treated with special consideration, and that the shampoos and flea and tick products meet your needs.

I choose to go to a groomer once a month for hair clipping, nail trimming, emptying the anal glands & ear clipping. I take care of the maintenance at home such as brushing and bathing in between grooming visits. I’ve been going to the same groomer for many years and I trust that my dog is getting the best care.

It’s important to communicate your expectations clearly or you may be surprised when your Coton de Tulear comes home looking like a poodle.

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