After the grooming session, you think your dog will be excited and fresh. But sometimes, instead of happily wagging their tail, they appear quiet or a little sad. This is common to encounter, and you can make them feel better.
Grooming can be a strange experience for dogs. The new sounds, the smells and the people can leave them feeling nervous or unsure. Indeed, grooming is a need; the pets just need some time to adjust to the surroundings.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the tips to cheer up your dog after grooming so you can make sure they feel calm, loved, and happy again.
What Makes Dogs Feel Low After Grooming?
If you notice your dog is distracted after the grooming session, there are some reasons they behave this way. Understanding the reason helps you to fix their mood. Grooming can also be a big transition for them, and dogs may need time to adjust.
Below are some common reasons they might feel down afterwards:
New Smell or Appearance
Grooming can change your dog’s scent and look through shampoos and sprays. This abrupt transformation can leave them disoriented or not quite themselves.
New Surroundings
Grooming salons are loud and full of strangers. The new sounds, smells, and handling may induce mild stress or anxiety.
Physical Sensitivity
If their fur is tightly cut or their nails are recently clipped, it may cause the skin to feel different or slightly uncomfortable for some time.
Stress recovery
Dogs produce the same stress hormones during new experiences as we do. They may eventually settle down after some time. It may take a few hours or possibly a day for them to return to their normal self.
Identifying Signs Your Dog Is Stressed or Uncomfortable
Some dogs can show slight differences in their behavior after grooming. This is normally a short-lived outcome and nothing to be concerned about. But identifying the signs of stress can help you figure out your dog’s needs. The following are some common signs:
- Trembling – an instinctive action when your dog is anxious about something.
- Tails tucked or rejecting touch – they’ll probably need some time and space to feel safe.
- Unusual licking or scratching – this could be a sign that their skin is irritated after grooming.
- Whining, pacing or not eating – all signs show they may be feeling anxious or uncomfortable.
Most of the dogs recover within 24–48 hours. If they don’t feel any better, it is best to consult the vet.
How to Cheer Up Your Dog After Being Groomed?
Making your dog peaceful and joyful after grooming isn’t hard. It just requires patience, comfort, and love. Here are some simple ideas that are impactful to make them relaxed:
Create a Calm Environment
- Keep things peaceful at home after grooming.
- Maintain gentle lighting and minimize loud noises.
- Allow your dog to relax in his favorite place with an old blanket or bed.
- Familiar smells and surroundings will make them calm.
Provide Reassurance & Loving Touches
- Your voice and gentle touch can help them.
- Speak in a soft tone and also give them strokes.
- Avoid big hugs or sudden movement; give them some time.
Treats & Praise
- Find something positive in the negative experience.
- Give your dog its favorite treats. It helps to create a happy link with grooming.
- Praise them to support them without being overstimulated.
Light Playtime
- A little fun can cheer them up.
- Once they’re calm, play some quick games with them.
- Don’t overburden them as they can get tired.
Comforting Massage
- A relaxing massage can reduce stress and build trust.
- Light strokes on their shoulders, neck, and back also help.
- It helps to relax their muscles, and it also makes the bonding strong.
Maintain Their Comfort
- They can feel secure in small details.
- Keep them comfortable and warm (especially if their fur is short).
- Encourage them to have fresh water and some quiet rest time.
Calming Aids (If Needed)
There are some calming aids that can help them relax quickly. Go with pet-safe alternatives and use them cautiously.
- Pheromone spray or calming collars: They emit natural scents that can keep them relaxed.
- Lavender blankets or diffusers: Gentle lavender scent that is pet-safe and offers a relaxing vibe.
- Soft, calming music: Put on soft music or dog-centric playlists to help relieve stress.
Conclusion
You can maintain the well-being of your dog by grooming. It helps you and your pet to connect as well. After grooming, they may feel disturbed to fix this; you need to provide them with a sense of calm reassurance. You can also give them gentle comfort by giving them calm strokes or creating a relaxing atmosphere.
By doing this, they can get back to normal and regain their happiness. Watch their body language and give them a safe environment. You should also reward them with love and praise, so they will learn to connect grooming. A little kindness after grooming helps your pet to feel safe, confident, and loved.
