Grooming advice needed

Ximena M

First time I've posted on this board, but I'm hoping for some advice.  I have a very large mutt. For the most part he doesn't need much grooming despite his long hair, but when his hair sheds his butt get matted.  I have noticed that when I brush it he gets really nervous.  The vet recommended using a slicker brush, but he can stand it.  I use a rubber brush which he is OK with until I get to his tush.  I'm thinking he needs a tranquilizer, before I do it.  I don't want him to be traumatized.

TIA

sandollar1010

I certainly wouldn't suggest a tranquilizer.  You may want to take him to a groomer to get his matts under control.  From then on, you can handle it.  Just make the brushing sessions very short with lots and lots of tasty treats.  He will start to think - oh, the brush equals me getting treats.  He won't be traumatized if you do it that way.  My girl is a little extra sensitive around her rear too, so just be patient.  She was nightmare to brush/groom when we first got her.  She's a 65lb poodle, so she had to get used to it.  Now, she's one of my groomers favorite clients.  Good luck!

Sanderso39

sandollar1010:

  Just make the brushing sessions very short with lots and lots of tasty treats.  He will start to think - oh, the brush equals me getting treats.  He won't be traumatized if you do it that way. 

 I agree.  I give them treats while I am brushing that way they know they have to let me brush them to get a treat.  Now they get EXCITED to get brushed.  If it seems like it is painful though you will definitely want to go see a pro.

kaykay1126

sandollar1010:

I certainly wouldn't suggest a tranquilizer.  You may want to take him to a groomer to get his matts under control.  From then on, you can handle it.  Just make the brushing sessions very short with lots and lots of tasty treats.  He will start to think - oh, the brush equals me getting treats.  He won't be traumatized if you do it that way.  My girl is a little extra sensitive around her rear too, so just be patient.  She was nightmare to brush/groom when we first got her.  She's a 65lb poodle, so she had to get used to it.  Now, she's one of my groomers favorite clients.  Good luck!

 

Exactly! Another thing you can try if his matts get to be a problem between brushing sessions is an anti-matting shampoo. It will help to loosen the matts so you can brush him easier. My Jack Russel is terrified of the brush to the point where she literally attacks it before it can even touch her. Thankfully her fur doesn't need to be brushed or else we would be in the same boat as you.

DanniLynn88

My mom's dogs hate brushing and since I'm a groomer I feel the need to keep them groomed well. We use treats, mom feeds, I brush/shave/trim. The distraction makes them  forget about brushing, however if your dog isn't very food driven you may need to play with a toy or something they love.