Thanks
JennaPenny for your lovely compliment!
On your comments about the groomer refusing service to certain dogs...
I just want to say that even though I groom my own dogs, I am always worried of the small chance I may hurt them. They are so small and can be squirmy. But I know my dogs and most of the time, I know their limits and my limits.
To the OP:
If a groomer is not comfortable with a certain dog, I think it's only fair they refuse the service. Afterall, they don't know other peoples' dog well enough to 'take a chance' and it's much better to be safe than sorry (for themselves and for the dog). Hopefully you received a polite decline, but even if it wasn't, don't take too much offense into it and just be respectful of their decision. I would imagine each groomer is different with their methods/techniques and has different levels of skills, just like any other occupation. I agree with others that their job is to groom dogs, not train them. If I took my dog to a groomer, I would much rather they be honest and reject my dog, than to try even though they weren't comfortable and then possibly hurt my dog. Just continue with home-training and move on to find a new groomer. Be honest about your situation and asked them if they are comfortable with dogs with similar characteristics/issues as your dog. You could even ask them if they have tips on how you can help your dog have a better experience at the groomers.
I also agree with
Farleys that most dog owners don't start off with puppies young enough to get them used to blow dryers, nail clippers, combing etc. It's not fair to rely completely on groomers to 'deal with it'.