First teach 'Touch'
Start by saying 'Touch' then touch your puppy's chest, and repeat.
Go from chest, to shoulders, back, head, then try the more sensitive areas such as the legs, tummy, paws, ears, mouth.
Get your puppy used to touch, but always remember to say it first to signal to them you are going to touch them. Remember to praise them with 'Good boy/girl'.
This is a great way to get them used to being handled before you take them to the groomers.
Bath Time
Don't rush to bath your puppy, instead try to wait until they are a few months old.
When you come to bath them, slowly get them used to the water. Start with bathing them in a little water in the sink, and remember to make it a positive experience with lots of treats and praise.
Do not use lots of shampoo or conditioner, and make sure your puppy is thoroughly clean of any soaps to avoid them getting itchy.
Be careful not to get water in their eyes or ears, as this will cause nasty and painful ear infections.
6 Months
Book your puppy a gentle grooming session at around 6 months old to get them used to being away from you and being brushed and washed.
It's also important to get them used to scissors and clippers being used close to their face.
Continuing to touch their paws at home to acclimatise them to having them handled for trimming.
Also get them used to the sound of the hairdryer at home, so they aren't scared of the loud dryers at the salon.
Every three months
Unless they are filthy (e.g., mud or cow poo!), you should aim to bath your dog every three months.
All dogs secrete natural oils which are designed to help them maintain a healthy coat.
Bathing your dog too often can strip these natural oils away, resulting in dry and irritated skin.
Border Collies, Cocker and Springer Spaniels, Golden Retrievers and Bassets, produce a lot of natural oils, which waterproof their coats, and over washing should be avoided.