Enviornments like the groomers and vet offices can be stressful for most dogs. They can be loud, overstimulating, and the dogs usually get poked and prodded. To make sure your dog associates the vet or groomer with good experiences, expose them to that envoirnment as early as possible and have them comfortable with being handled by you and other strangers.

Handling

Handling your dog means being able to touch different parts of your dog's body. You should be able to check/exam/touch your dogs body without them biting, nipping, etc. Being able to handle your dog will come in handy when you need to check them for injuries to their leg/paws or have an ear infection. It is also important that your dog gets used to being handled by other people and not just members in their household so that their not as stressed in situations like the vet or groomer.

Vet Office

Vet offices can be a stressful environment for most dog. To make visit a positive experience, ask your vet if you are able to bring your puppy in on a day where it is less busy where you can bring your puppy in to socialize with the vet techs. Most vet offices are more than happy to take the puppy in for a practice exam.

Groomer

Most groomers can start grooming puppies as soon as they get their shots (roughly 4 months old). To make visits a more positive experience, ask your groomer if you are able to bring your puppy in for socializaton. You can also start the grooming process by grooming them at home and using the blow dryer to get them used to the loud blowing sounds.