Keeping Head Still??!!
 

I have trimmed Raley once. It took me 2 days but I did it. Anyway, since he was not pleased with being trimmed I decided not to get the area from the back of his neck and up. Needless to say, that area REALLY needs trimming. So, I decided I'd try. The minute I got the clippers out he freaked out. I could not keep him still. He was behaving like I had cut him and the clippers had not even touched him. Those of you with experience, please give me some advice. I don't know what to do!! Also, I would prefer doing it myself....I live a couple of hours from a major city and the only lady I know of that grooms around here supposedly has a stinky house!! She doesn't do too good of a job, either. A friend of mine uses her and I'd prefer to just not go that route.

Training your pup to hold still takes patience and perseverance. First, you must be in a relaxed and calm state of mind, otherwise your pup will react to your anxiousness or nervousness or frustration. Do your grooming in a calm environment with no distractions.

Do your grooming when your pup is drained of energy -- after a walk or play session. Try massaging your pup's shoulders and ears to put him in a relaxed mood. Use small treats and praise during the grooming process.

When using clippers, I have found that running a bathroom exhaust fan or a regular fan helps mask the noise of the clippers.

Work slowly introducing your pup to having the clippers near his head. Trim a little and praise, massage, treat. While being patient, don't give up. Be persistent.

While your pup is young, I would bring out the clippers at least once a week and at least pretend that you are trimming. That way he will grow accustomed to the grooming process. If he only sees them once a month, it might be like starting over each time.

If you haven't already, watch the grooming videos in the "sticky" post at the top of this section of the forum.

Hope some of these suggestions help. Good luck!

That is great advice!!!

Thank you! When I trimmed him the first time he hated it on day 1...on day 2 a friend of mine suggested I take the clippers out and lay them down so he could sniff them, etc...that worked like a charm. I have a fan that I will definitely use to help mask the hmmmmm............

I will also make sure he is very sleepy. Thank you for the wonderful advice. I will let you all know how (and when) I get it done!