When Should A Puppy Have Their First Groom?

by Sarah

Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Besides vaccinations, training, feeding routines and sleep schedules, there is another big question for first-time owners: when should a puppy have their first groom?

The answer is often earlier than most people think, but gently and correctly. A puppy’s first grooming experience isn’t about a full haircut: it’s about building trust, confidence and positive associations that last a lifetime.

What is the ideal age for a puppy’s first groom?

Most puppies can be introduced to professional grooming from around 12–16 weeks old, once they’re settled at home and comfortable being handled. For doodle breeds and puppies with fast-growing coats, early exposure is especially important.

Waiting too long can make the first visit stressful, particularly if the coat has already started to tangle or mat.

Why early dog grooming matters (even if the coat is short)

A puppy’s first groom is less about appearance and more about education and socialisation. During early grooming sessions, puppies learn that:

  • Being touched on paws, ears and face is safe
  • New sounds (dryers, clippers) aren’t scary
  • Standing calmly on a table leads to praise and reassurance

This early exposure helps prevent fear-based behaviour later on and makes future grooming visits calmer for everyone, including your dog.

What happens during a puppy’s first grooming appointment?

A good puppy grooming session should be short, calm and pressure-free. Typically, it includes:

  • Gentle brushing and coat assessment
  • A light bath and careful drying
  • Nail introduction or trim (if appropriate)
  • Tidying around the eyes, feet and hygiene areas
  • Plenty of reassurance, breaks and praise

There is no expectation of a full haircut during early visits. The goal is confidence, not perfection.

Puppy grooming vs adult grooming: what’s different?

Puppy grooming focuses on building tolerance, while adult grooming focuses on maintenance and styling. Puppies may move unexpectedly, or need frequent breaks, and that’s completely normal.

Specialist puppy groomers understand canine development stages and adjust their approach accordingly, ensuring your puppy feels safe rather than rushed.

How to prepare your puppy for their first groom at home

You can make your puppy’s first grooming visit smoother by practising at home:

  • Gently touch paws, ears and tail daily
  • Introduce a soft brush for short sessions
  • Reward calm behaviour with treats and praise
  • Get your puppy used to standing still for a few seconds at a time

These small steps make a big difference.

When should you book the next groom?

For most puppies, regular grooming every four to six weeks works well, especially for doodles and curly-coated breeds. Early consistency prevents matting, keeps skin healthy and helps your puppy see grooming as a normal part of life.

A puppy’s first groom sets the tone for years to come. Starting early, choosing a calm, experienced groomer and focusing on positive exposure helps your dog grow into a confident, relaxed adult; not one who dreads grooming day.

If you’re unsure when to book or what’s right for your puppy, a professional grooming assessment at our puppy care centre in Chiswick can help guide you.