‘Don’t Take Off the Muzzle’: Alaskan Malamute a Challenge to Groom
When Rex, an Alaskan Malamute, came to Vanessa of Girl With The Dogs for grooming, it wasn’t his first attempt. Other groomers had refused him, labeling him “aggressive” because he growled and barked when entering their shops. But Vanessa, who is experienced with large and powerful dogs, decided to take on the challenge.
Rex had been successfully groomed in another country, but since arriving in Canada, he had become more difficult. Vanessa surmised the issue wasn’t true aggression—it was more that Rex was stubborn and a bit of a “brat.” She also learned that he suffers from hip dysplasia and takes gabapentin, which may explain his sensitivity to being touched in certain areas.
The session began with a blow dry to remove dead fur, followed by a shampoo, another dry, and then brushing. However, Rex’s owners didn’t want to take any chances so asked that she not take off his muzzle during the groom.
During the process, Vanessa shared practical tips on handling big dogs during grooms—from leash techniques to the right tools and safety measures. And, after the groom, Rex looks great!
His family posted a response to Vanessa’s video:
“Thank you so much, Vanessa Seeing our boy Rex on your channel meant the world to us. You captured both his stubbornness and his sweet side perfectly. We’re so grateful for the care and confidence you gave him throughout the groom.”
“And thank you to everyone who’s left such kind comments about him here. It truly means so much to know his big personality (and fluff!) connected with you all.”
“Vanessa, your patience, empathy, and the way you always advocate for dogs exactly as they are continues to inspire us. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience for Rex.”
Viewers thought Rex was pretty well behaved all things considered. One viewer wrote, “He liked most of the blow dry and brush I suspect. Thinking he knew it needed to be done and Vanessa was just the strong willed but kind lady to get away with it.”
Another wrote, “I laughed when he lifted his leg so you could use the blower on his butt! [Ed note: at 17:50 min]”