01/06/2026
There are many factors that determine the outcome of your dog’s finished groom. While I always do my best, things like coat type, coat condition, and your dog’s behaviour can all play a part in the final result.
The first four photos are examples of grooms that, in my opinion, were less than satisfactory for a variety of reasons. One of the biggest challenges I face is dogs with sparse, thin coats that are a mix of silky hair (like a Maltese) and curly hair (like a Poodle). This coat type can be difficult to fluff and straighten, making it harder to achieve a smooth, even finish. It often shows scissor marks and can appear choppy, no matter how carefully it is groomed. I see this coat type quite often in Maltese crosses, Cavoodles and some Bichon crosses.
Another factor is behaviour. You can’t achieve a beautifully styled face on a dog that is uncomfortable with the blow dryer if the coat remains damp. As a force-free salon, I never push a dog beyond its comfort level. If a dog has had enough, I work within those limits, even if that means completing parts of the groom on slightly damp hair, which can affect the final finish, as seen in photo four.
On the other hand, when a dog has a great coat and is comfortable throughout the grooming process, you can achieve results like those in the final photo. Looking at these pictures, you might not believe they were all groomed by the same person—but they were.
I believe in being transparent and sharing the good, the average, and the challenging grooms. Many groomers only post their best work, which can create unrealistic expectations. The reality is that not every dog can achieve the same style or finish, and that’s okay.
Please keep an open mind when judging a groom. Groomers will always do their best with the canvas presented in front of them. We work with living, breathing animals, each with their own coat type, temperament, and limitations. Perfection isn’t always possible, but your dog’s comfort and wellbeing will always come first.
❤️🐾
