Why the First Groom Isn’t Always “Perfect” - setting expectations for new clients.
When your dog comes in for their very first groom with us, it’s the start of a journey together. While we always make sure they leave looking and feeling their best, it’s important to know that the very first groom isn’t always the finished article.
Many owners do what is known in the industry as “groomer hop” which means to bounce around from salon to salon never quite happy with the outcome. This is counterproductive to achieving your desired style and for more sensitive pups can also make the whole process much more stressful.
What we should suggest instead is opening a constructive dialogue with your groomer about what you don’t like. It can be scary, and from a professional standpoint when you have put your heart and soul into your work constructive criticism can be difficult to swallow, but it is such an important part of the client / groomer relationship.
Of course there are some pet professionals who don’t want to hear it, and some pet owners who are plain rude, and neither of these situations are positive or productive, but being able to say to your groomer “Hey, Fluffy’s haircut was great last time but the legs were a little short for my liking”, or “I don’t really like the square shape on the ears, do you think we could round them off a little more?” can help your groomer better understand your expectations.
Dogs are often more settled once they’ve built a bond with their groomer. As they become more comfortable, we can refine the finish with less wriggling or worry.
Now, sometimes what clients are asking for is not realistic, either on this particular day or at all, and you need to be willing to hear this too. I could take a photo of Angelina Jolie to my hairdresser and get the exact style but never look like her. So what are some of the things that make your request impossible?
Coat growth
Sometimes we need areas of the coat to grow in before we can achieve the style you’re aiming for. It takes time to shape things properly, but with some patience the style will come. There may even be an awkward middle point - like growing out a fringe.
Unique structure
Just like people, no two dogs are built the same. The first groom is also about us getting to know your dog’s anatomy, coat type, and any quirks, so we can adapt our techniques for them. If your dog is tall and leggy, and your inspo picture is of a pooch who is built much lower to the ground we may never be able to get them looking exactly the same.
Coat texture
I have had many owners of straight coated pooches bring me images of super curly Poodles or Bichons, or inspiration of dogs with super thick coats when their dog’s is much finer. Whilst we may be able to do a similar style, if your dog does not have the texture it will never look exactly the same.
Maintenance schedule
Long and fluffy hairstyles take lots of home maintenance and more regular visits to the groomer. If you are not able to regularly brush in between your appointments, or do not want to put in the work, a short and more practical style will be more appropriate. If you want the luscious long teddy-bear look you have to be willing to keep on top of the coat at home and attend the salon more often.
Hope is not lost, each appointment builds on the last, and before you know it, we’ll perfect the style that suits your dog best, keeping them comfortable, healthy, and looking fabulous. Your groomer should work with you to reach your aspirations in a realistic manner, and get your pooch looking their best.