We’ve been using petco groomers, but they don’t try to build any relationships with us or the dogs. I’d like to find a groomer that the dogs look forward to going too. Anyone have people that they particularly like?
You've identified the problem - PETCO - it is a "soulless" (thanks
@vraiblonde) corporation that doesn't give a crap about you or your dog. Most of those small groomers enjoy the relationships with customers and critters. So find you the small business and develop the relationship.
The groomer I use has a staff of 4 or 5 and they really love my mutt and, it might be hard to believe, but they seem to like me too. I schedule a monthly visit and when they make the confirmation call the day before I only speak in dog (yep, I bark at them). They love it, confirm the appointment, and chuckle about it.
And they do handle some big dogs, saddle size big, but they might be a little too far away for you.