Nervous Dogs

Part 1 – Bathing, Consent & Foundation Handling

Alicia demonstrates how she manages two large dogs in the bath while supporting a nervous temperament. Watch how she:

• Asks dogs to enter the bath rather than dragging or lifting

• Uses sister confidence to support a nervous dog

• Avoids common rinsing triggers by protecting the nose and ears

• Maintains safety with nooses without adding tension

• Uses warm water and calm repetition to build trust

This section sets the tone for the entire groom and shows how small adjustments dramatically reduce stress.

Part 2 – Clipping Strategy & Nervous Dog Positioning

Maggie’s full body clip is completed with a #4F blade for a practical spring length. Key focus areas include:

• Head shaping with clippers to reduce scissoring time

• Using a wall for physical and emotional stability

• Stretching skin correctly to avoid nicks in rolls and flanks

• Holding legs within natural range of motion

• Asking for movement instead of physically turning the dog

You’ll clearly see the difference between forcing a turn and asking for one.

Part 3 – Hygiene Areas, Tail Work & Technical Safety

This section covers:

• #10 blade hygiene work with light hand pressure

• Safe tail clipping with a snap comb over a #30 blade

• Awareness of tailbone placement when using attachment combs

• Efficient prep work to reduce scissoring time

• Managing large dogs without compromising your body

Alicia reinforces that good prep equals good finish.

Part 4 – Scissoring Finish & Easy Maintenance Styling

The final section completes the groom with:

• Neat, tight ear edging technique

• Low-maintenance face shaping while preserving eyelashes

• Safe foot scissoring and checking between toes

• Final balance and symmetry checks

• Working efficiently without escalating nervous behaviour

The result is a practical, owner-friendly trim completed in two hours for both dogs together.