2d • General discussion
Observe first…. Groom Second!!
Well... I've been a bit MIA! 😅
The last few weeks have been crazy. Between the salon, mentoring, training and trying to juggle all the other hats I seem to wear, I've definitely had too many hands in too many pots. Unfortunately, this group has taken a bit of a back seat.
But I'm back, and I thought we'd restart with something simple that can make a huge difference.
One thing I say all the time is...
Behaviour isn't random. Behaviour has a reason.
Dogs don't suddenly decide to growl, freeze, pull away, lip lick or avoid us for no reason. Every behaviour is communication. The real question is... are we listening?
So here's your challenge for this week.
Before you start your next groom, don't rush in.
Pause.
Observe.
Take a minute to really look at the dog in front of you. What are they telling you before you've even picked up a brush or clipper? Where are they looking? How are they holding themselves? Are they relaxed, uncertain or already feeling the pressure?
Then make one adjustment based on what you've observed. Slow your pace. Change your position. Start in a different area. Give the dog a moment to process before asking for the next step.
Now watch again.
Did their body language change? Did they soften? Did they become more engaged? Did the groom feel easier?
I'd love to hear what you noticed, so share your observations in the comments. There are no right or wrong answers. The goal isn't to find the perfect technique it's to become better observers.
Because when we learn to observe first and adjust second, we're no longer just grooming dogs... we're communicating with them.
Let's get these conversations going again. I can't wait to see what you all discover. 🐾
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Observe first…. Groom Second!!
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