change in dog behavior after grooming

Question
I took my scottie to the groomer for the first time a week ago.  He looked great and I liked his cut, but since we brought him home he seems like a different dog.  He doesn't come when called, I have to pick him up to put him outside, he goes off and stays in a room to himself, and doesn't play games or with his toys.  It has been a week and no change.  I took him to the vet 3 days afterwards to see what might be up and they said he had a mild ear infection in one ear, but not bad really a bad one.  Everyone says to give it time, but I really want my friend back.  I miss my active, loving dog and I don't know what to do.  Have you ever heard of a dog being traumatized by grooming?  I hate calling the groomer as I don't want to seem like I'm accusing them of anything.

Answer
Hi Darlene,
I have heard of dogs that behave oddly, i.e., hiding under the bed if they are shaved particularly short because of thickly matted fur. They feel differently after a very short haircut -- and sometimes the first haircut -- and it can affect their behavior.

How old is your Scottie? If he is older and this was his first haircut, it may be the reason for his behavior.

If dogs are shaved short and family members laugh and treat them differently, the same behavior can manifest. Owners will often say, "He was shaved short because of mats and he hated it!" Generally, it's the owner who hates the haircut and because they treat the dog differently, the dog dislikes the treatment. You write that you like the haircut but I wonder if anyone in the household dislikes his new look?

The vet gave him a clean bill of health, but that doesn't mean something went undetected. Monitor him closely to see if there are changes in the way he walks, sits or climbs stairs. Veterinarians are usually thorough in their examinations, which include palpating the back, knees and hips for tenderness stemming from injury.


Lastly, as a groomer, I never mind if someone calls to ask if the dog behaved abnormally or if he fought being groomed.

Thank-you and good luck,
Becca