Behavioural Suppression and Autonomic Stress Responses in Dogs During Routine Grooming Procedures

This study examines autonomic and behavioural stress responses in dogs during routine grooming, using heart rate variability (RMSSD) and structured behavioural indicators (CASRI, GSI). Across seven grooming phases, drying, restraint, and nail trimming produced the strongest sympathetic activation and the highest frequencies of behavioural suppression, including freezing, gaze aversion, and reduced sequencing. Dogs with trauma histories, senior dogs, and brachycephalic breeds showed lower RMSSD values and slower recovery, indicating reduced regulatory resilience. Findings highlight that passive stillness may mask underlying distress and support the integration of physiological and behavioural measures to inform more welfare‑led grooming practices.