How can I get Bailey use to clippers?
 

Bailey will be a year old this month and is so afraid of clippers. I've had him since he was 9 months and the breeder was growing a full coat. I put the clippers on the table but when I turn them on he goes crazy. What can I do to get him use to them? I've bought some Rescue Remedy but haven't tried that yet. I have both the Oster Golden A5 and the smaller trimming clippers but it doesn't matter which I try to use.

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.

:goodpost: :thumbup::thumbup:

My friend used the clippers on Tucker for his feet and ears ect... She put some cotton in his ears and it helped alot. He was terrified of the noise.

Thanks Nancy, good advice! Yesterday I managed to get him to sit still while I had the trimmer on and he even let me rub up and down on his back with the wrong side. I'm trying to work my way up to his ears as they're in bad need of a trim. I'm want to get him adjusted to the trimmer first because it makes less noise.

Thanks mxkids! Great idea and I'll try this.

I have a 4 year old male Yokie with the same issues. I've heard of Rescue Remedy and want to buy it, but I can't find it anywhere...only online (We live in GA). I have to take my baby to the vet to have his nails cut and foot pads trimmed because he is so terrified. He's terrified at the vet as well, but if something goes wrong he would be able to get immediate medical care. Pet Smart refused to file his nails because he was so upset. They asked me if he had a heart condition!!!!!!!! OMG!! His vet charges $35.00 for his nails and foot pads. I was told to do this twice a month. I could save so much money if he would let me do this at home but I think he knows I'm nervous, too.
Any info about Rescue Remedy would be appriciated. Did you buy it online?

Prince's mom

First off, you don't have to do that twice a month, only every three to four weeks. As for clipping nails, I cant do that and my vet charges 8.00. And yes I did have to get it online and I got mine from Organic Pharmacy. Google pet rescue remedy and see what you come up with. Good luck.