While the grooming industry often promotes itself as offering a “spa day for dogs,” the reality is that many dogs find the experience highly stressful. Unlike humans, dogs do not understand the concept of a haircut or the importance of grooming for their health and wellbeing.

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Some dogs may tolerate grooming procedures, but others may perceive them as threatening, responding with fear-driven behaviours such as fleeing, thrashing, or attempting to bite the groomer or equipment. These reactions not only increase stress for the dog but also create a potentially hazardous environment for both the dog and the groomer. In many cases, this leads to the dog being referred for a sedated groom at a veterinary clinic. While sedation can be necessary in urgent cases—particularly when a dog is severely matted and cannot wait for behavioural intervention—it is not a sustainable or long-term solution.

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Drawing on my background in both grooming and canine behaviour, I developed the Gradual Grooming Programme—a structured, compassionate approach designed to help dogs build confidence and comfort with grooming over time. Sessions last 30 to 45 minutes and are conducted at your dog’s pace, using positive reinforcement techniques to break the grooming process into manageable, stress-free steps. This method fosters predictability, choice, and trust between dog and handler.

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This service is available at my home-based grooming salon in Guidepost, Northumberland. I also offer online training for clients who are unable to travel or who may opt to groom their dog themselves, as well as for professional groomers seeking to integrate this method into their own practice.