If you’ve spent any time grooming dogs, you already know that some pets walk through your door easily and excitedly, while others… need a bit more convincing. Nervous dogs are part of the job, but what makes it tricky is how differently anxiety can show up. Some shake and whimper, and a few may freeze completely. In some cases, fear can even escalate to defensive behaviors like growling or snapping.
Because every pet is different, there’s really no one-size-fits-all solution for handling grooming anxiety in dogs. (And honestly, we’d argue it’s impossible to create one…) That’s why it’s so important to stay tuned into how anxiety can present in your furry clients and have a few different tools available to help each pet feel safer and make your job a little smoother. Inspired by best practices from experienced groomers, this guide outlines techniques for supporting anxious pets during their grooming appointments.
Quick Refresher: Signs of Anxiety in Dogs
- Vocalizing (whining, barking, howling)
- Shaking or trembling with their tail tucked under
- Accidents (urination or defecation)
- Aggression (growling, snapping, lunging)
Techniques to Help Calm Anxious Dogs
Desensitization
You’re probably already familiar with this, but it’s always worth revisiting. Gradually introducing pets to grooming tools with lots of positive reinforcement can make a huge difference, especially for sensitive areas like their paws.
Start with simple touches, then light pressure, and slowly introduce clippers or nail trimmers. (Think slow—like months slow, in some cases.) Celebrate small wins with treats and lots of breaks.
Lead with Confidence
Dogs respond to emotional cues. This means that if you’re tense, they’ll be tense. A quiet, calm presence can help reassure even the most nervous pups. While some days this is easier said than done, it really pays off when you can consistently offer a calming environment to walk into.
Consistency Matters
If a pet bounces between different groomers, it can be difficult for them to feel fully settled. When chatting with owners, it’s worth gently explaining why sticking with the same groomer and the same process can help reduce their dog’s anxiety over time.
Routine, Routine, Routine
The same steps, the same order, the same calm energy—predictable routines are pure gold for especially anxious dogs. Even small things like how you dry them or the order you trim their feet can make a huge difference.
Take Your Time Upfront
Even if you’re on a tight grooming schedule, spending a few extra minutes at drop-off can go a long way. Sit on the floor, let them come to you, and ask the owner for insights, like whether their pup does better if the owner stays nearby or steps out, or if there are specific triggers to avoid.
Tools and the Best Calming Products for Nervous Dogs
Physical Products
Compression wraps like ThunderShirts or noise-muffling Happy Hoodies can take the edge off for some pets.
Pheromones
Products like Adaptil use DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromones), which are calming pheromones that help reduce stress in certain situations or environments. They are incredibly easy to keep on hand at the salon to help create a soothing, positive experience for pets.
Supplements and Treats
- Zylkene is a milk-protein supplement that promotes calming behavior, but it takes time to build up (it’s better for long-term use in regular anxiety, not immediate fixes).
- Composure by VetriScience and similar treats are designed for acutely stressful situations.
Important Reminder:
We always recommend encouraging pet owners to chat with their vet before starting supplements or calming aids. In some cases, prescription solutions may be needed for more severe cases of anxiety.
Even when you know all the right moves, anxious dogs can still be challenging. (You’re only human!)
But with a little extra patience, a steady routine, and a few backup tools, you can help even the most worry-prone pups feel a little more at ease and make every appointment a better experience for everyone.
Another way to keep a calm environment? Ensure you can focus on the pets who walk through your door—leave the rest to us! See how DaySmart Pet can help streamline your daily operations. Start your free trial today.