The Stages of Nail Trims (Ranked)

From “we love this” to “this is a full event”

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1. The Unbothered Icon

“What are we doing? Oh… okay.”

• Stands still

• Barely reacts

• Might not even notice

• Absolute dream

= Groomer thoughts: never leave me

- Vibe: effortless perfection

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2. The Polite Tolerator

“I don’t love it… but I understand.”

• Slight side-eye

• A little stiff

• Lets you finish without drama

= Groomer thoughts: we can work with this

- Vibe: respectful cooperation

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3. The Nervous Bean

“I’m unsure… but I’m trying.”

• Pulls paw back occasionally

• Needs reassurance

• Big “am I okay?” eyes

=Groomer thoughts: you’re doing amazing sweetie

- Vibe: gentle encouragement required

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4. The Wiggle Negotiator

“Okay but what if… we didn’t?”

• Constant shifting

• Tries to bargain with movement

• Sits, stands, sits again

= Groomer thoughts: we’re having a conversation now

- Vibe: mild chaos

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5. The Dramatic Performer

“This is the worst thing that has ever happened to me.”

• Yelps (sometimes before anything happens 👀)

• Pulls away like it’s personal

• Makes eye contact for sympathy

= Groomer thoughts: the academy award goes to…

- Vibe: theatrical excellence

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6. The Tiny Tornado

“I will not be participating.”

• Full body resistance

• Twisting, spinning, escaping attempts

• Strong, committed opinions

= Groomer thoughts: teamwork makes the dream work

- Vibe: high energy survival mode

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7. The “Absolutely Not”

“No. ”

• Locks body

• Refuses all cooperation

• Has decided this is not happening today

= Groomer thoughts: we regroup, we reassess

- Vibe: boundaries… very strong boundaries

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Be honest… what level is your dog?

Most dogs are at least 2 of these depending on the day