Behaviour after first groom

Again, I’m going to touch on the importance of socialisation during that critical window before 12 weeks. This is known as somatosensory socialisation. Since your puppy is now over 8 months old, you’ll only be able to work on desensitising them, which will take you several weeks, months, or even years, whereas it would have only taken a few sessions during that critical period.

Thanks to the three of you for the info... Unfortunately, that’s probably what we should have done, but the damage is done now... I’ve got an appointment with the vet later, and we’re going to try and get our pooch’s spark back!

He might have been traumatised by that grooming session. My dog doesn't actually need professional grooming at all, but I preferred to go to a pro for his first wash. It clearly wasn't a good experience for him – especially when she tried to dry him – as I was there, I told her to just leave it. Mind you, for the second wash I had no choice; he’d rolled with glee in some stinky greenish poo – so it was straight into the shower at home, and that went really well. I reckon Misanthrope will pop by your post, she’ll have some good advice; she’s the one who recommended a brush for Sky that doesn't irritate the skin – so I’ve ditched the Furminator.