Step-by-Step Guide to Stress-Free Brushing, Nail Trims, and Vet Visits for Your Golden Retriever Puppy Stop fighting your Golden Retriever puppy during brushing and nail trims. These 7 proven handling and grooming preparation games build trust and make vet visits stress-free. I remember the exact moment I realized I had messed up my Golden Retriever's grooming foundation. Beau was about five months old. I had been brushing him since eight weeks, but I got lazy. I'd hold him still when he wiggled. I'd pin him down for nail trims because it was faster. Then one day, I pulled out the slicker brush and he ran —not playfully, but with his tail tucked and ears pinned back. He stood across the house staring at me like I was holding a torture device. That was my wake-up call. Forcing handling doesn't create cooperation; it creates avoidance. If you are dealing with a puppy who turns into an alligator at the sight of a comb, you don't need more muscle—you need a differ...