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How to keep my dog still for dematting her head and rear end?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 3 months old

I was dematting my dog but then she started moving around and really hates when I try to work around her head or bottom. How can I keep her still?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Amber W

Answered By Amber W

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on December 2nd, 2017

You can try to make the grooming experience as pleasant as possible for Penelope so that she will be more willing to hold still. I'd try offering her a very highly valued treat (something she loves and only gets when groomed) to distract her while you try grooming her. As long as she does not have a dietary sensitivity Peanut butter or spray cheese can work nicely.

Initially you may need a second person to offer treats to distract while you groom, but hopefully Penelope will eventually allow you to groom her without an extra hand. You may want to also try Adaptil spray to help calm her during grooming.

If these techniques do not work you will need to take Penelope to a veterinarian who offers grooming services.

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