Older dogs may experience arthritis, muscle weakness, reduced mobility, sensory changes or other health conditions that affect their grooming experience.

Watch for changes in posture, movement, facial expression and responses to handling. A tucked tail, lowered head, raised paw, muscle tension, flinching or reluctance to move may indicate discomfort, fear or uncertainty. These signs should be considered together, rather than interpreted individually.

Dogs may not vocalise when they are uncomfortable. Familiarity with the dog's normal behaviour, combined with careful observation throughout the appointment, can help identify when something needs to change.

Standing for extended periods, lifting limbs and maintaining particular positions can become difficult for ageing dogs.

Provide secure, non-slip surfaces and appropriate physical support. Avoid stretching limbs beyond a comfortable range or expecting a dog to hold a position for longer than it can manage. Adjust the order of grooming tasks to minimise unnecessary movement and allow opportunities to sit, rest or change position.

A second groomer may be helpful when additional support is needed, provided the arrangement is comfortable for the dog.

Ageing skin may become more delicate, dry or prone to irritation. Assess the skin and coat before bathing, select suitable products and use gentle handling throughout.

Changes in hearing, sensitivity to noise and physical comfort can affect how a dog responds to drying. Some dogs benefit from reduced airflow, quieter equipment or alternative drying methods. Others may find prolonged drying uncomfortable regardless of the equipment used.

Monitor the dog's responses and adapt the process accordingly. Completing every stage of a conventional bath and dry may not be appropriate for every senior dog.

Older dogs may develop lumps, skin tags, warts, areas of thinning coat or changes in skin condition. These require particular care when clipping, brushing and bathing.

Examine the coat and skin before beginning, especially in areas where growths may be concealed beneath longer hair. Avoid unnecessary pressure or repeated passes with grooming tools over sensitive areas.

Where appropriate, clipper guards or attachment combs may help provide additional clearance, but they do not eliminate the risk of injury. Any unusual or concerning findings should be discussed with the owner, with veterinary assessment recommended when needed.

A familiar breed-style trim may no longer be the most suitable choice for an ageing dog. Shorter maintenance trims, less demanding styling and reduced brushing requirements can help make future appointments more comfortable.

For some dogs, shorter appointments or dividing the work across separate visits may be beneficial. Others may find repeated visits more stressful, so the approach should be decided individually.

The priority is maintaining hygiene, coat condition and comfort without placing unnecessary physical or emotional demands on the dog.

Owners can provide valuable information about changes in mobility, health, behaviour, medication and how their dog manages everyday activities.

Discuss the dog's needs before grooming, particularly when working with an unfamiliar senior or geriatric dog. Where appropriate, consider whether having the owner nearby would provide reassurance or whether a different arrangement would be more comfortable.

Groomers are not veterinarians and should not attempt to diagnose medical conditions. However, observations made during grooming can be valuable. Communicate concerns clearly and recommend veterinary advice where appropriate.

Good grooming records are especially valuable as dogs age. Document changes in mobility, skin and coat condition, behaviour, handling tolerance and responses to particular procedures.

Record any adjustments made, what helped the dog remain comfortable and which tasks proved difficult. These notes allow future appointments to be planned more thoughtfully and provide continuity when another groomer takes over.

A senior dog's grooming plan should evolve alongside the dog, with comfort and welfare guiding decisions at every stage.