The first thing I recommend is that you designate a place, such as a grooming table or other sturdy non-skid surface, for grooming and caring for your pet at home. A lot of my clients use the top of their washer or dryer and put a non-skid bathtub matt on it. You can put an eye hook on the wall to attach a grooming noose to if you like. If you plan on doing a lot of grooming at home, a professional grooming table is a small investment that will make your life so much easier! It is just the right height for working on comfortably, has a non-skid surface, and comes with a grooming arm and noose so that you can use both hands at the same time.
When you designate a place for grooming your pet at home and are consistent with using the same place every time, he will get used to being groomed there. When you put him up on the table, he should expect to be groomed and know that it’s not play-time. Treats as a reward are great, but try to keep the atmosphere calm and serious when you are working on him here.
When first starting out, put him on the table and gently brush him for a few minutes at a time. Give him a nice reward when you’re done. If he tries to bite or wiggles a lot, gently correct him, but keep brushing until he calms down. Eventually, he will learn what is expected of him and will stand nicely for you when you are working on him. For some pets, it will take longer than others, especially if he has already learned bad habits.
Even if you are using a professional groomer for the majority of your pet’s grooming needs, designate a place for grooming your pet at home. Brushing and combing, ear care, dental care, and nail care can all be done at home in between professional grooming. This will enhance your bond with your pet, and it will increase the chances of you noticing right away if your pet has a health concern that needs to be addressed.
And, remember, your lap does not count as a designated grooming area! He needs to know that it’s grooming time, not cuddle or playtime!
