Modern Pet Grooming: Prioritizing Pets' Physical and Emotional Well-being

by Chrissy Neumyer Smith, host of the Creating Great Grooming Dogs podcast

Grooming today isn’t just about getting a dog clean and trimmed—it's about the whole dog. That means we’re not just focusing on how they look but also how they feel about being groomed. And when we approach grooming with a focus on both the physical and emotional well-being of the dog, everybody wins—the dog, the owner, and the groomer.

Grooming with Care: It's More Than Just a Haircut

Grooming is so much more than just bathing and styling. It's a form of care. Our job is to help dogs feel safe, comfortable, and understood while we're working with them. That means we take the time to recognize what each individual dog needs—because grooming shouldn't feel scary or overwhelming.

Reading Dogs: Why Behavior Matters

One of the most important tools a groomer can have isn’t something you buy—it’s the ability to observe. Are they yawning? Lip licking? Shifting away? These are all ways dogs communicate. When we know what to look for, we can make adjustments in real time to help dogs feel more at ease. That’s a huge part of what I teach in the Creating Great Grooming Dogs podcast and in my classes. Understanding canine behavior is the foundation for grooming success.

Cooperative Care: Trust Changes Everything

Cooperative care means working with the dog, instead of on the dog. It’s about giving dogs some say in the process. Maybe that’s taking a break, changing positions, or easing into a new tool or sound. When dogs know they have some control and that we’re listening, they’re more willing to work with us. That trust builds over time—and it’s powerful.

Tools and Techniques That Make a Difference

There’s no one-size-fits-all in grooming. A big part of our job is being flexible and meeting dogs where they are. That might mean changing our approach, using different tools, or modifying our handling techniques to match a dog’s body language, coat type, or comfort level. Patience, observation, and a willingness to adjust go a long way.

Stress-Free Grooming Helps Everyone

When grooming is low-stress, dogs leave feeling better, owners feel confident and relieved, and groomers enjoy their work more. It’s a win-win-win. And it’s achievable! With the right skills, knowledge, and a commitment to learning, groomers can ensure that grooming is a safe and pleasant experience every time.

Final Thoughts

Modern grooming is about more than making pets look good—it’s about helping them feel good, too. When we support their emotional needs as well as their physical ones, we create stronger relationships, better grooming outcomes, and a happier experience for all involved.

Want to learn more about building cooperative care skills and understanding dog behavior in the grooming setting? Check out the Creating Great Grooming Dogs podcast and our professional courses at MasterGroomerBehaviorSpecialist.com!