How to Choose The Perfect Dog Grooming Package for Your Pup

All dogs deserve to be pampered. Not only does regular grooming help to keep your pup looking and feeling their best but it’s also a great way for a professional to give your pooch the once over and check for anything unusual in their coat or skin that you might have missed. 

But many groomers offer different packages and extras, so how do you know which one is best for your furry friend? Do they need a wash too? Does your pup need specific treatment because of their breed?

It can be difficult for pup parents to navigate it all and there are so many things to consider for your beloved dog. In this article, we’re going to take you through the major points when it comes to choosing a groomer and the perfect package for your pooch.

Qualities to Look for in a Dog Groomer

If you’re going to leave your doggo in someone else’s hands, there are a couple of things you need to consider to ensure you get the coat cut you want for your pup. 

#1. Experience

Experience really matters when it comes to grooming. Someone with years of experience will have a knack for calming nervous dogs and know how to handle them properly. As well as providing the perfect cut, they’ll also make the experience fun for your pet, so they’re more likely to want to come back.

#2. Reputation and Reviews

One of the best bits about owning a dog (apart from the endless cuddles and devotion) is the community that comes with it. Whether that’s their friends at the dog park or at daycare, you automatically meet other dog owners. Their recommendations and advice are really valuable when it comes to choosing a groomer and the right package.

#3. Patience

Grooming sessions are a necessity, but they can be overwhelming – especially for nervous dogs. It’s important, therefore, that groomers appreciate this and take their time. There are lots of new smells and sounds at the groomers and rushing pups through can make the experience more stressful. At The Dog Dazzlers, we recommend doing a couple of things before a grooming session to adjust your dog and make them as comfortable as possible. Our experienced team will always take the time to calm pups and make it an enjoyable experience.

#4. Cleanliness and Hygiene

Hygiene is essential when it comes to dog grooming. Blades and scissors should always be cleaned between cuts and the grooming area should be cleaned throughout the day and deep cleaned in the evening. 

#5. Good Communication

Communication is key, especially to making you and your pooch feel comfortable and getting the perfect cut. Tell your groomer what you like and don’t like and they’ll also give you bespoke advice depending on your pup’s breed and coat type. They may also recommend extras such as sensitive skin products, hygiene cuts or a nail clip.

#6. Information

Your dog groomer should give you as much information as possible, so you’re both on the same page and make the experience as fun and relaxing as possible. Ask precisely about pickup times, added extras, where your dog will be waiting when they’re finished and the qualification levels of each groomer. 

Which Dog Grooming Package Should You Choose for Your Pup?

There are several things to consider when selecting the perfect grooming session for your dog. Make sure you talk through any queries or questions you have with your groomer and they’ll happily advise on what’s best.

Some things to consider are:

• Short-Haired Breeds. Doggos with short coats, such as Greyhounds and Boston Terriers, require very little grooming. A good wash and brushing session with nail and ear cleaning is usually enough.
• Curly Coats. Poodles and many popular mix breeds need regular trimming to make sure their coats are kept healthy and mat-free. Choose a package that includes a trim, clean and even some conditioning. You may also want to book your pup in for a face or foot trim in between more major trims to keep them fresh and comfortable for longer.
• Double-Coated Breeds. Some of the most popular breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and Labradors have double coats. They have an inner coat that is soft and downy and a protective outer one too. Whilst practical, this does mean they shed a lot. These types of breeds need de-shedding attention, including brushing and special washing. They’ll also benefit from ear cleaning and nail trims.
• Hairless Breeds. Some people choose hairless breeds because they’re often more hypoallergenic. Of course, they don’t need full body trims, but their skin does need extra attention and they’ll still need a nail trim and ear clean. 
• Puppy Trims. At The Dog Dazzlers, we usually suggest you wait until your pup is 16 weeks old before bringing them in for a groom. We offer special puppy-friendly appointments to trim wriggly little puppies that might be overly excited or a little nervous!
• Senior Trims. Just like younger dogs, seniors might need a little TLC. When you bring your pup to our dog groomer in Melbourne, we’ll take extra care of arthritic hips and those with less mobility.
• Breed-Specific Trims. Some dogs, such as Poodles and Bichon Frises, have breed-specific requirements to keep them looking adorable. Our groomers have experience grooming different breeds to ensure the cut is suitable and practical for their coat and body types. 
• Dogs With Health Issues. If your dog has an injury or a health condition, you should speak to your groomer and consider this when choosing your package. Pups with skin problems or wounds will benefit from soft shampoos that are easy on the skin. 

Choose The Perfect Dog Grooming Package at The Dog Dazzlers 

Your pups matter and giving them the perfect groom for their unique needs is important. We’re always happy to answer any questions you might have and our experienced groomers will advise you on which packages and additional dog grooming services will be ideal for your pooch. Get in contact with the team at The Dog Dazzlers to enquire about what’s best for your pup so they feel and look their best!