The Ruff Truth About Grooming: Why Our Dogs Hate It (and Why We Can’t Skip It)
If your pup gives you the side-eye the second you pull out the brush, welcome to the club (ahem, Crowley). Grooming can feel like one of those necessary evils of dog parenting, right up there with bagging poop on a rainy walk.
But just like picking up after them, regular grooming isn’t optional. It’s essential for their health and comfort (even if they act like you’re plotting against them).
Why Grooming Matters
Health check in disguise: Brushing lets you spot bumps, scratches, or ticks you’d otherwise miss.
Goodbye mats, hello comfort: Tangled fur can tug on skin and trap dirt, making dogs itchy and uncomfortable.
Clean paws, clean floors: Regular nail trims and paw checks keep your home cleaner and prevent injury.
Less shedding drama: A little brushing now = less hair tumbleweeds later.
The Struggle is Real
If your dog hates grooming, you’re not alone. My dogs act like I’m auditioning them for a horror movie every time I bring out the brush. (Pro tip: the dramatic sighs are Oscar-worthy.)
Dogs resist grooming for a lot of reasons:
They don’t like being restrained.
Loud clippers or blow dryers are scary.
Brushing can pull if their coat has knots.
Honestly? They’d just rather be playing or napping.
Making It (Slightly) Less Miserable
Here are some tricks that have saved my sanity:
Short & sweet sessions: Five minutes of brushing beats an hour-long battle.
Reward system: Treats, praise, and belly rubs turn grooming into something worth tolerating.
Desensitize early: Handle their paws, ears, and tail gently during cuddle time so they get used to touch.
Professional help: Groomers have magic powers (and the patience of saints).
The Bigger Picture
At the end of the day, grooming isn’t just about looking cute (though that’s a perk). It’s about keeping your dog healthy, comfortable, and happy, even if they don’t see it that way.
Because being a dog parent means doing the not-so-fun stuff too. Picking up poop. Clipping nails. Wrestling them into the bath. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s always worth it.
And hey, that’s exactly why we created Pööt, because even the “necessary evils” of dog parenting deserve a smarter, cleaner upgrade.
Your turn: Does your dog tolerate grooming, or do they put on a full dramatic performance like mine? Share your funniest grooming fails with us…we could all use the laugh.
