Below are some of the most common questions we get asked about grooming your dog.
A. The grooming needs of a dog largely depend on its breed and the amount of grooming you do at home. Typically, most breeds should be bathed and have their nails trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain healthy skin and coat. This is particularly important for breeds with longer fur, such as Cockapoos, Goldendoodles and Poodles, to prevent matting and ensure their coat remains in excellent condition.
A. The frequency and expense of grooming depend on your dog's breed and how often you schedule appointments. Larger dogs with dense fur usually need more time and resources, leading to increased costs. We recommend planning for 6-8 visits per month for all dogs to ensure consistent maintenance. Please note that if it has been more than 12 weeks since your dog's last grooming at Smarty Paws, the prices for all breeds will rise.
A. Proper grooming is vital for all dogs year-round. Just because it is cold outside does not mean grooming should be overlooked. In the winter, it is especially important to ensure their coat is functioning effectively to help regulate their body temperature. Dogs depend on their fur to keep warm while playing in the chilly, damp weather, even when things get a bit wet and messy. However, if their coats are not properly maintained, lingering moisture can cause a range of issues. Mats and tangles can trap moisture against both the fur and skin, potentially leading to problems like hot spots and bacterial infections.
A. Of course, we recognise that circumstances can change and are sometimes beyond control! However, we kindly request that customers provide us with at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations whenever possible. If cancellations occur with less than 24 hours’ notice, a minimum fee of £20 of the appointment cost will be charged. A no-call, no-show will result in a full charge of the appointment fee.
This policy is in place because we operate on an appointment-only basis and are unable to fill slots that have been missed or cancelled on such short notice
A. Most dogs typically require about two hours for a complete grooming session. However, if your dog is especially large or has a thick coat, it may take longer. Additionally, dogs that have not been groomed in a while might also need extra time due to their additional fur and their unfamiliarity with the grooming process.
A. Most dogs tend to develop mats in specific areas, particularly around collars and harnesses, under their arms, and near their paws. Grooming these spots can be challenging and demands extra attention. It is essential to use the appropriate tools, as mats often arise from using unsuitable equipment or incorrect techniques. We can provide guidance on what to purchase and how to use it effectively, and we also offer grooming lessons tailored for high-maintenance breeds.
A. Most dogs are better behaved if their owners do not stay however this is not always the case, and sometimes dogs have special requirements or health complaints that require their owners to be present during the grooming process.
A. We will always call you as soon as your dog is ready to go home, and we kindly ask that owners refrain from arriving before our call. This can help prevent excitement or anxiety for your dog, which may hinder our ability to complete the grooming. If you have any concerns about your dog or feel the process is taking longer than expected, please feel free to call us. We will be happy to update you on their progress and provide an estimated time for completion.
A. Please do not hesitate to share your thoughts with us; we promise we will not take offense. We maintain thorough records of each dog's grooming style for this very reason, but we can only adjust if you are open with us. Your feedback is always valued. In some cases, if a dog's coat is in poor condition, we may need to resort to a clip-off or shorter style. However, after this is done, we will gladly teach you how to groom your dog to prevent this from happening in the future, and we will strive to have your pet looking just the way you envision.
A. We suggest allowing females in heat to remain undisturbed until their season concludes, which typically occurs about 17 days after you first observe signs of being in heat. This recommendation is based on their heightened sensitivity during this period and the uncertainty of potential male dogs being nearby.
