Grooming can be overwhelming for a puppy encountering it for the first time. Much like toddlers, young dogs are still adjusting to unfamiliar experiences, especially those that involve strange sounds, unfamiliar scents, and being handled by someone new. A recent Instagram video accurately depicts just how unpredictable a puppy’s first grooming appointment can be.
Puppy reacts to grooming session and it goes unexpectedly
Dog groomer Shauna McGlinchey shared the video on her Instagram account @shauna_mcglinchey, giving followers a candid look at what happens when a puppy’s first grooming appointment doesn’t go as smoothly as hoped.
At first, everything seemed promising. McGlinchey began the session with optimism, but as she explained in the video, “the cracks began to show.” She describes the puppy’s mood swings as “hot and cold.” One minute, the little dog was sweet and affectionate, and the next it was lashing out, snapping at her fingers and even trying to nip her earlobes.
The video features different moments during the session, showing the dog’s unpredictable mood swings. McGlinchey compares the pup to a toddler who throws tantrums whenever things don’t go their way. The emotional rollercoaster continued throughout the grooming, keeping McGlinchey on her toes the entire time. By the end, she shows her wrists, scratched and marked up by the pup’s little claws and teeth, a clear sign of the chaotic experience.
Despite the tough session, McGlinchey takes it all in stride, ending the video with some valuable advice. She stresses the importance of getting puppies used to groom early — ideally, once they are fully vaccinated around 10 to 12 weeks old. This is especially important for breeds with high-maintenance coats that require regular grooming.
Experts recommend starting with gentle brushing at home, handling their paws and ears regularly, and making short, fun visits to the groomer. The goal is to create positive associations so that grooming becomes a routine experience, not a stressful one. While the first session might not always go perfectly, like in McGlinchey’s case, it sets the foundation for better experiences in the future.
