When should I start having my dog professionally groomed?

As soon as your puppy is vaccinated, you should have it professionally groomed - usually within the first three months of it's life. Although they may not look like they need much of a 'haircut' this early, you have to understand that there is a whole world of noises, handling and procedures in a grooming salon they need to get used to! Puppies should be groomed once a month for the first few months. This will allow shorter, less involved grooming sessions and gradually allow your pup to become accustomed to grooming learning it is an enjoyable experience instead of a traumatic one. Exposing your puppy as early as possible to experiences it is going to have for it's entire life is extremely important, so that grooming is a pleasant experience for the dog, groomer and owner.  

How often should I have my dog groomed?

It depends on the breed of dog, type of coat and how long you'd like to keep the coat. Generally 4 to 6 weeks is ideal for maintaining the coat. This is also ideal for short coated breeds to keep on top of shedding. The idea is to 'maintain' the coat, not wait until it is overgrown, matted and uncomfortable for the dog. Pre-booking your dog's next appointment is strongly recommended to avoid having to wait for an available appointment when the dog needs it 'now'!

How much will it cost?

Cost depends on various factors, so groomers will often give you a range or approximate cost. The condition of the dog's coat (e.g. if it is matted), the length and style of the clip, the dog's general health, how much time is required for the groom,  the dog's temperament etc are all factors in determining the price. We will happily discuss the cost with you at the time of making your booking and try to give you the most accurate estimate. We also offer VIP cards to our clients, where every 10th visit is free.

How long will my dog's grooming take?

The time required depends on what the dog is having done, the length and complexity of the clip, the temperament of the dog, it's general health, etc.
We groom a large number of dogs each day and so our days are quite unpredictable! Therefore, we cannot give you an exact time when your dog will be ready.
Instead, we call or send you a text message to notify you as soon as your dog is finished and ready to go home. When you book your appointment, we will make a time for you to drop off your dog, usually between 8am and noon. As soon as your dog is ready, you will be contacted. If you are at work and need to leave your dog with us for the day, you are most welcome to.
Please do not call us to see if your dog is done - if we haven't contacted you, they aren't ready yet!
Stopping to constantly answer such calls really just slows us down, interrupts us and takes us away from our very special clients. Similarly, if you turn up before your dog is finished, you will distract your dog, making it anxious and stressed as it will only want to try to get to you. This makes it difficult and extremely dangerous for the groomer and your dog as aiming at a moving target with sharp scissors and blades is a recipe for disaster! It will sometimes even make it impossible to complete the groom.  If you do need your dog finished by a certain time, just let us know at the time of making your booking, prior to the day of your appointment. 

Can I stay and watch?

No, this really doesn't work at all! Your dog will be constantly trying to get to you, and because he/she can't they will be extremely stressed, anxious and will not stay still. This makes the groom difficult and often impossible. Discuss any concerns you have with the groomer when you bring your dog in, and then quickly and fuss-free hand over your dog. If you prolong the process, your dog will pick up on your anxiety and become more stressed. Most dogs suffer some degree of separation anxiety when mum or dad leaves them, but you would be surprised how quickly dogs settle down and are happy with their groomer after you leave - just like leaving kids at kindy! It is normal for some dogs to shake and tremble a little when they arrive, but if you don't fuss and hand them over quickly and leave you will help them settle and relax. We have many many clients that come in, tails wagging, just about busting down the door to get in, without a second look back! 

Will my dog be muzzled?

If a dog shows signs of aggression, we will put a muzzle on them, for both their own safety and ours, to prevent accident and injury and to help calm the dog.   

Will my dog be sedated?

Absolutely not. We do not use any form of sedation at The Dog Den, as we are not a veterinary clinic. If your dog requires sedation you must speak to your vet.

Will my dog be caged while waiting?

When you bring in your dog, he/she will be placed in their own, open front cubicle, on a lead. We find this keeps them  relaxed and happy - to be honest most just curl up and go to sleep! Others sit and watch what's going on around them as they settle in for a day at the spa... Dogs from the same family can share a cubicle.

Why is my dog scratching after grooming?

It is very common for dogs to scratch after grooming - probably similar to us being itchy after shaving. Try to distract your dog from scratching if you can, as the more they scratch, the more they will itch and so on. Most importantly, don't panic as it is quite normal. Particularly young dogs who aren't yet conditioned to clipping will scratch, as will white or apricot coloured dogs, more so than dark coloured breeds. Clipper rash is quite common, especially in the groin area. If you are concerned, speak to your groomer, they will advise you on further action.

Do you groom cats?

Unfortunately we are unable to groom cats as we lack the facilities to accomodate them at this time.

IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, OR WOULD LIKE TO SPECIFICALLY DISCUSS THE GROOMING NEEDS OF YOUR PET, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL US FOR A CHAT!