Preparing Your German Shepherd Puppy for Grooming

Grooming your German Shepherd doesn't have to be a WWE wrestling match. You can get your puppy used to grooming by doing some mock grooming exercises with them.

Following are some basic tips to help prepare your puppy for grooming. Your number one goal is to help your puppy remain calm and enjoy these exercises.

Side Note: All of these exercises can also be done with adolescent and adult German Shepherds.

Your puppy will have to get their nails trimmed and get a bath. You can help them get used to common situations by having mock grooming sessions.

Simple Exercises to Help Prepare Your Puppy for Grooming

Toe nail pinches. To help get your puppy used to the sensation of having their toe nails clip gently pinch each toe nail. Do this several times a week. While you do the gentle pinching you can give them some food treats too.

If you are going to use a Nail Grinder like a Dremel then you should start by feeding your puppy treats while you hold the nail grinder. Then once they are used to that turn it on the lowest setting it has and feed your puppy. Repeat the process until you can touch on of their nails with the grinder.

Brushing. Taking a good grooming brush and gently brushing your puppy a few times a week will help them get used to it. After each series of brushing giving your puppy some treats is a good idea to help make a positive association with being brushed.

Mock Baths. Go through the routine of giving your puppy a bath but do not use water. As they get used to the routine add a small bit of water to the tub/sink/grooming tub and repeat the process. Remembering to give them praise and treats when they are responding calmly.

Hair drying. Start out by having some one turn on the hair dryer while you play with your puppy. Eventually you can take hold of the hair dryer while you toss treats to your puppy. As your puppy starts to get used to the sound of the hair dryer turn it down to low and give them a quick drying (they are not wet) while you feed them.

Brushing their Teeth. When you are teaching bite inhibition you can also work on getting your puppy used to a finger brush that will be used to brush their teeth when their adult teeth come in. After they accept the brush put a little doggy toothpaste on the brush and give them a short brushing. Remember to praise good behavior.

Taking the time to do these exercises with your puppy will help you avoid problems and your dog will enjoy being groomed which makes the whole process so much easier for everyone.

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