Puppy’s First Groom: What to Expect & How to Prepare

By Dashing Dawgs Grooming & Boutique, located in Downtown Vancouver

Your puppy’s first grooming appointment is a big milestone. It’s not just about getting clean; it’s about learning that grooming can be calm, safe, and even enjoyable. The way this first experience goes can shape how your dog feels about grooming for the rest of their life.

At Dashing Dawgs Grooming & Boutique, several of our professional groomers have taken additional courses to learn to train and support puppies as they get used to the grooming process. This puts a focus on gentle handling, patience, and trust-building, especially for puppies with short bursts of play. We don’t rush, force, or overwhelm. Instead, we help puppies learn that grooming is just another normal part of life. Our puppy training sessions last approximately one hour. 

This guide explains what to expect from your puppy’s first groom and how you can prepare at home to make it a positive experience.

Why the First Groom Matters

Puppies are learning about the world every day. Their first grooming visit introduces them to:

• New people

• New sounds (dryers, clippers, water)

• Being handled in new ways

• Standing still for short periods

If this experience is calm and supportive, puppies are more likely to grow into dogs who:

• Feel relaxed at grooming appointments

• Tolerate handling well

• Trust groomers more easily

• Show less grooming-related anxiety

• Love their groomer like a family member

That’s why first grooms are usually short, gentle, and focused more on learning than perfection. First grooms always start at the bath and tidy stage so they can be short and fun. 

When Should a Puppy Have Their First Groom?

Most puppies can have their first grooming visit after completing their initial puppy vaccinations, usually around 12–16 weeks of age. Always follow your veterinarian’s guidance on timing. Of course, different coats will also dictate when you need to come in.

The first visit isn’t about a full makeover; it’s about introduction and comfort.

What Happens During a Puppy’s First Groom?

A puppy’s first grooming appointment is often called a “puppy introduction” or “puppy groom.” It’s designed to be gentle and positive.

Typical First Groom Services Include:

• Slow start, meet and greet on the grooming table

• Light brushing

• Gentle bath (if needed)

• Face, feet, and sanitary trim (minimal)

• Nail trim

• Ear and paw handling

• Dryer introduction (low and calm)

The goal is not perfection - it’s their overall experience.

If a puppy becomes tired, overwhelmed, or restless, groomers may stop early. That’s not a failure, it's just smart, and respectful to your pup as they learn the grooming process.

What Groomers Focus On With Puppies

At Dashing Dawgs Grooming & Boutique, our groomers focus on:

• Building trust

• Moving slowly

• Reading puppy body language

• Taking breaks when needed

• Ending on a positive note

Puppies learn through repetition. One calm visit leads to another, and over time, grooming becomes familiar instead of scary. We will go over our puppy report card and give you homework to continue the grooming process support at home.

How to Prepare Your Puppy at Home

You don’t need special tools or training, just a little consistency.

1. Practice Gentle Handling

Get your puppy used to being touched in grooming areas:

• Paws - don’t forget between the toes

• Ears

• Tail

• Face

• Belly

Keep sessions short (about 10 min.) and positive. Praise, gentle voice, and calm energy go a long way.

2. Introduce Brushing Early

Even a few strokes with a soft brush help puppies learn:

• Brushes are normal

• Being still is okay

• Grooming isn’t scary

• Don’t forget a grooming comb. These will help detect small mats that can grow into real issues 

Aim for gentle exposure.

3. Let Them Hear New Sounds

Puppies may be startled by grooming noises. At home, you can:

• Let them hear hair dryers from a distance

• Turn on the clippers near them (not on them)

• Keep the experience calm and brief

• Turn the tap on so they can hear the sound and show them the water flow

This helps reduce surprise at the salon.

4. Keep a Positive Attitude

Dogs read your emotions. If you’re nervous, they’ll feel it.

At drop-off:

• Stay calm and cheerful

• Avoid long emotional goodbyes

• Use a happy, confident tone

A relaxed owner helps create a relaxed puppy. We will work on the rest.

What to Bring to the First Groom

You don’t need much, but helpful items include:

• Proof of vaccinations

• Share your thoughts about your puppy’s behavior

• Information about fears or sensitivities

Be sure to book a puppy grooming training spot on our schedule or call us to see who might be available to work with your pet. 

Common Puppy Behaviors During First Grooming

Every puppy is different. Some are curious, some shy, some wiggly.

You might see:

• Tail wagging

• Nervous shaking

• Curious sniffing

• Playful bouncing

• Sneezing 

• Short attention spans

All of this is normal. Groomers expect puppies to act like puppies.

What Not to Expect From a First Groom

A puppy’s first groom is not about:

• Long sessions

• Advanced styling

• Full breed-standard trims

The priority is comfort, learning, and trust.

Trying to force a perfect look too early can create fear that lasts into adulthood. Let’s take it slow.

How Often Should Puppies Be Groomed?

Puppies benefit from regular, short grooming visits.

Many do well with:

• Every 3–4 weeks for introductions

• Gradually longer sessions over time

Consistency helps puppies remember the experience and the grooming environment.

Nail Trims for Puppies

Puppy nails grow fast and don’t always wear down naturally.

Regular nail trims:

• Help puppies walk comfortably

• Prevent nails from curling

• Reduce discomfort later

Short, frequent trims help puppies learn that paw handling is normal.

Bathing Puppies at Home

You can bathe puppies at home if needed, but:

• Use puppy-safe shampoo with no scent

• Keep water warm, not hot

• Dry thoroughly right to the skin level

• Avoid over-bathing

Professional groomers use special techniques and tools that home baths can’t replace, but light home care is helpful between visits.

Building a Positive Grooming Routine

The best grooming routines start early and stay consistent.

A good routine includes:

• Gentle handling at home

• Calm professional grooming

• Short, positive sessions

• Gradual progress

• Regular brushing and don’t forget a comb, though, typically matted areas

Puppies learn through repetition, not pressure.

How Dashing Dawgs Supports Puppies

At Dashing Dawgs Grooming & Boutique, we:

• Work at your puppy’s pace

• Use calm, gentle handling

• Read body language carefully

• Take breaks for gentle play and praise

• Focus on trust, not force

We believe grooming should never feel scary. It should feel safe, patient, and respectful. Lifelong grooming happiness starts with their first experiences. That’s what we are here for.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a puppy’s first grooming visit?

Usually shorter than adult grooms and are often 45–90 minutes, depending on comfort.

Will my puppy get a full haircut?

Usually no. First grooms focus on learning, not styling.

What if my puppy is scared?

That’s okay. Groomers adjust the session and stop if needed. We will stop when your puppy needs us to. It’s all about reading their signs. 

Can I stay during grooming?

Some do better with owners present, others without. We will assess and always keep you in the loop through text messages.

How many visits before my puppy is comfortable?

Every puppy is different. Some adjust quickly, others need more support.

Your puppy’s first groom is the start of a lifelong relationship with grooming. With patience, gentle care, and the right professional support, grooming can become a calm and positive part of your dog’s life.

At Dashing Dawgs Grooming & Boutique, we’re proud to help puppies grow into confident, well-groomed dogs one gentle appointment at a time.