Originally Posted by Nancy1999  I use clippers on Joey's ears and tummy, and the way you do it is . . . slowly. First have some food available, and put him on his grooming table, and turn the clippers on, but don't use them. Give him a treat. Some dogs will be so frightened by the clippers that this is all you can do the first day, but, you could try brushing him or distracting him while the clippers are on, and rewarding him for good behavior. Next, pick up the clippers, and continuing talking in a matter of fact voice, but not a coddling voice. Again, reward him.
I was in no hurry, so I just did this once a week with Joey, but if you are in a hurry, every day or several times a day this can be done. Next, you use the clippers next to the skin, but the wrong side, so he can feel the vibration, but there is no discomfort. Reward again. The idea of behavior modification is to take tiny baby steps, and get them use to the activity without overwhelming them. Some people might have to turn the clippers on when the dog isn't even on the table, but on the floor, and reward him for sitting. I used the backwards clippers on Joey for several weeks before I attempted the actual clipping. Always end the session on a positive note, meaning that even if you have to take a step backwards he is rewarded for sitting there while the clippers are on. You might even want to turn the clippers on at feeding time, and let him hear the noise while he's eating. |