Bringing your dog in for their first grooming appointment can feel a bit nerve-wracking — especially if they’re still a pup or have never been professionally groomed before. But don’t worry! At Hair of the Dog Highgate, we’ve been making dogs feel safe and pampered since 1999. Here’s exactly what to expect so both you and your furry friend feel prepared.
💬 1. A Warm Welcome and Chat
When you arrive, we’ll greet you and your dog with a smile and take a few minutes to get to know their personality, coat type, health needs, and any special preferences. This is the perfect time to ask questions or mention anything we should know (like if your dog is nervous, has allergies, or dislikes the dryer).
🛁 2. Bath Time!
We start with a gentle bath using coat-appropriate shampoo and conditioner. Whether your dog has sensitive skin, a thick double coat, or needs something hypoallergenic, we’ve got it covered. We take our time to ensure a calm, spa-like experience.
💨 3. Blow-Dry and Brushing
After the bath, we carefully towel-dry and then blow-dry your dog using quiet, pet-safe dryers. This part helps fluff up the coat for brushing and makes trimming easier. We also gently brush out tangles and remove loose fur.
✂️ 4. Trim, Tidy, or Full Groom
Depending on your booking, we’ll proceed with a simple tidy-up (face, feet, and hygiene areas) or a full-body trim to your chosen style. We always go slowly, making sure your dog is relaxed throughout the process.
🐾 5. Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning
We include nail trimming and ear cleaning as part of the groom, keeping your dog healthy and comfortable. We’re gentle and careful with pups and first-timers — and we’ll skip anything they’re not ready for.
🐶 6. Calm, Caring Environment
Your dog’s first experience sets the tone for future visits, so we create a calm, friendly space with lots of encouragement and patience. Our goal is to help your dog associate grooming with care, not stress.
🎉 After the Appointment
We’ll give you a quick update on how your dog did and suggest a grooming schedule based on their coat type. You’re also welcome to ask about home brushing tips or the best products for in-between care.
❤️ Ready for Their First Visit?
Whether you’ve got a wiggly puppy, a rescue dog, or just a first-timer, we’ll make sure they feel safe and look fabulous. Book their first grooming session with Hair of the Dog – Highgate and let’s start their spa journey off right.
