Puppy’s First Groom - What to Expect
A guide for new pet parents to help your puppy build confidence and comfort at the grooming salon
Congratulations on your new puppy! Life is about to get cuter, noisier, and full of firsts - including their very first grooming appointment! Grooming isn’t just about keeping your pup clean; it plays a big role in their health, comfort, and socialisation. That’s why starting early matters.
Why Early Grooming Matters
Puppies learn fast, and that includes learning how to feel about grooming. The earlier you start, the easier it will be for both you and your groomer down the track. Most puppies are ready for their first visit from around 14-16 weeks of age, once they’ve completed their vaccinations.
Pro Tip: A positive introduction to grooming sets the tone for life. Aim for five professional grooms in the first year, especially if your dog will require regular grooming. Your groomer will help desensitise your puppy to the table, clippers, dryers, and nail trims, while you help at home with daily handling and brushing.
When owners and groomers work together during this learning phase, dogs become easier to groom for life.
How to Prepare at Home
You can start preparing your puppy for grooming from the moment they arrive:
Touch their paws daily: Gently hold each paw and run your fingers between the pads and over the nails.
Play with their ears: Especially important for long-eared breeds.
Gently touch their face and around the eyes: This helps them get used to future trimming.
Run your finger along their gums: Vets often check the gums first during health checks, so get them used to it early.
These tiny moments build trust and prepare your pup for vet visits too.
Before the Appointment
Take your pup for a walk beforehand so they’ve had a chance to toilet.
Keep it upbeat: Puppies feed off your energy, so stay calm and cheerful.
Start brushing at home: Get your puppy used to being brushed regularly. Ask your groomer about proper technique.
What Happens During the First Groom
The first groom is all about building confidence. It will usually be shorter than a regular appointment, with lots of praise, gentle touch, and breaks.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Brushing
Your puppy will be gently brushed while the groomer talks to them softly. It’s a bonding experience that sets the tone for the rest of the visit.
2. First Clip
Your groomer will introduce the clippers and gently tidy the coat. This is just an introduction—nothing fancy yet.
3. Eyes, Ears & Toes
The groomer will trim the hair around the eyes with scissors and clip your pup’s nails using pet-safe clippers. These areas can feel strange, so it’s done slowly with reassurance.
4. Bath Time
Your puppy is bathed using warm water and gentle puppy shampoo. The groomer carefully keeps water away from the eyes, ears, and nose. They’ll use soft techniques to ensure comfort.
5. Getting Dry
Towel drying comes first, usually with a cuddle! Then a gentle handheld dryer is used on a low, quiet setting.
6. Style Time
This part depends on how your pup is coping. Some puppies are ready for a tidy-up, others need to stop here. It’s all about building positive associations.
Note: Your groomer will contact you when your pup is ready for pickup. If your puppy sees or hears you before they’re done, they may get too excited to finish calmly.
After the Groom
Your pup might want to rub on the carpet or couch - that’s normal.
Try to discourage excessive scratching. Freshly trimmed nails can be sharp.
Offer plenty of water and let your puppy rest - they’ll be tired!
If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call your groomer.
Want to Learn More?
We’ve got a guide on how to brush your dog at home and a full DIY Grooming Course if you want to support your pup between grooms. Learn about brushing techniques, puppy coat care, safe bathing, and more.
Explore our DIY tutorials or talk to your groomer about the best at-home routine for your breed.
Welcoming a new puppy is a big adventure. With the right support and a little preparation, grooming can become a calm and positive part of your dog’s life—for you, your pup, and your groomer.
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