Professional groomers say they can often tell how deeply a dog is loved within minutes—and it has nothing to do with pricey spa packages, perfect haircuts, or how photogenic the pup looks afterward.
For Nicole Bellenfant, a dog groomer based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the biggest indicator has nothing to do with appearance or well-trained behavior. Instead, she told Newsweek it is written in the way a pup simply exists in the space.
“It’s more about how they carry themselves, like people. Usually, a person who isn’t loved hangs their head a little or slouches,” Bellenfant said, adding that dogs do the same.
Bellenfant added that canines who feel secure at home tend to settle in quickly, even if they are initially unsure.
She said: “A dog who feels safe at home usually adapts pretty quickly. They might be a little unsure at first, but they don’t stay that way for long.
“They make eye contact, they relax into the space, and they’re generally OK being handled. The best ones actually smile.”
The Small Detail That Says Everything
The subtle sign that Bellenfant, a franchise owner of mobile dog spa Zoomin Groomin, looks for is how a dog responds when a groomer touches sensitive areas—paws, face, and the tail region. These are the moments that reveal whether a pup is used to gentle, consistent handling.
“Dogs who are used to being gently handled at home don’t overreact in those moments. They might pull away a little, but they don’t panic. They trust that it’s going to be OK,” Bellenfant said. “That kind of trust usually comes from regular care and patience, not just the occasional grooming appointment.”
Even nervous pups can learn to relax, Bellenfant added, but it doesn’t happen magically. Comfort is built through small, everyday habits: checking their feet, brushing out tangles before they become painful, and noticing changes in their coat or skin.
Bellenfant said that trust—or the lack of it—is immediately noticeable. “Nervous dogs just don’t act like they’re expecting something bad to happen. That’s the difference you feel almost right away. Trust is an important sign of a dog who is treated well.”
How Often Should Dogs Be Groomed?
Grooming needs vary widely, and not every canine requires frequent baths. Dr. Preston Turano, a veterinarian and spokesperson for AKC Pet Insurance, previously told Newsweek that the right schedule depends on breed, lifestyle, and how much time a pup spends outdoors.
“This really depends on the owner, lifestyle of the dog, and breed. Most companion dogs are often in a home and typically only need a bath every couple of months. Working breeds and active dogs may need more frequent baths depending on the activity and weather,” Turano said.
Beyond keeping a canine clean, regular bathing can support skin health.
Turano added: “Washing your dog reduces unpleasant odors and removes debris. Baths reduce the number of allergens that stay in contact with the skin, which helps to reduce the risk or severity of allergic dermatitis.”
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