We are going to try and give Jeff a proper groom today. The problem is he is really difficult to keep still, and hates being brushed. I have no idea why he hates being brushed, we have tried, with treats, since he was a pup, and the last week have made a consistent effort every day, giving little brushes every few hours with treats, but he still hates it and as soon as he sees the brush runs away (even with treat at the ready). AFAIK we have never hurt him and there shouldn't be anything unpleasant associated with brushing, although he did go to a groomer for an all over clip in the summer so perhaps something happened there
But then, he was funny about it before that, and has always been a stiff, jerky, wriggly thing rather than a floppy, soft thing like Annie.
Unfortunately, this means he has now got some tats in his armpits and ears that we must get rid of before they get worse, so we're going to have to do something even if it means doing it against his will
We have detangling spray, a gentle brush, a clipper (again tried to get him used to this over the last week but he just treats it the same as the brush) for his armpits and a matt splitter. We are going to get some really tasty treats for him and take him for a long walk, then give him a bath and dry before starting.
There will be two of us, and we are planning to do it on the dining room table (groom Jeff that is
).
So, my questions:
1. What can we do to make him secure (he will wriggle like mad) so that we can do the deed as quickly as possible?
2. How can we feed him treats while we do it? (one needs both hands holding, the other needs both hands grooming - no hands left to feed treats)
3. What type of treats are best for this? Lots of tiny itty bits or a few longer lasting treats?
4. Any other tips for making the grooming session as quick and uneventful as possible for all involved.
Typically, Annie, who hardly ever needs grooming because she has fine, silky hair, LOVES being groomed and will roll on her back for it
Thanks