How to choose a dog groomer that you'll love

Grooming is very important for dogs. It doesn't just keep them looking prim and proper; it helps reduce the chance of major issues, like skin problems, happening.

Plus grooming helps make most dogs feel good. Professional grooming can reduce matted fur, clean blocked ears and stop nails from overgrowing.

But not all groomers are the same, and you need to choose the right partner for you and your pup. Dog grooming is, thankfully, far more available now, but there's a real challenge in choosing which groomer works for you.

Here, we brush through what to look for in a dog groomer, why professional grooming matters, questions to ask and any red flags you should keep an eye out for.

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Why professional grooming matters

Grooming has clear, proven benefits for dogs, including:

• Early detection (not treatment) of health issues like fleas and skin problems

• Getting them used to handling and new environments

• Improving coat and skin health

• Improving ear health

• Prevention of infection from dirt and grime

• Reduction in stress

• Reduction of overgrown nails

• Removing dirt and debris, reducing matting

There are two major advantages to grooming: the health benefits of grooming and having a professional eye spot health issues early.

But why choose a professional groomer? Why not do it yourself? Well, while you can do some elements yourself, like brushing, a professional will need to do the big jobs.

They have the expertise to do the job well, and some will even specialise in particular breeds and temperaments. It's more convenient for you, too.

It's an excellent opportunity to improve your dog's socialisation as well. The groomer exposes them to new things, gives them the confidence to tackle tasks alone and time to meet other people.

Plus, you're not a professional, so some jobs carry risks. Improper dog grooming at home can lead to:

• Coat damage and skin injuries due to using tools incorrectly

• Dry skin and infections due to improper drying

• Ear infections due to improper drying

• Eye irritation

• Nail damage

• Stress and anxiety, especially if they've had negative experiences before

One thing to remember is that you must train your dog for grooming. Some will take to it quicker than others, but it's important to use positive reinforcement and practice patience.

But if your dog isn't getting used to the groomer (and likely the vet, too), please see a behaviourist or chat with your vet. It can indicate a deeper problem.

Extreme stress is a major danger for dogs, and you shouldn't put yours in situations where they face it without medical advice and training.

Understanding dog grooming services

What do dog groomers do exactly? Do dog groomers clip nails? Can they do other things, like ear cleaning?

Here's what a professional dog grooming service will usually include:

• Bathing

• Brushing

• Ear cleaning

• Eye cleaning

• Nail trimming

• Parasite and flea check (for detection, not treatment)

• Shampoo and conditioning

And then some may offer specialised services, like:

• Anal gland expression (when necessary)

• Creative grooming

• De-shedding treatments

• Ear cleaning and plucking (when appropriate)

• Paw pad care

• Teeth cleaning/brushing (non-veterinary)

How to choose a dog groomer

Certification and training

So, do dog groomers have to be licensed? Not exactly. Groomers aren't required to hold qualifications in the UK.

But that doesn't mean your groomer shouldn't have some level of accreditations.

You should look out for a dog groomer who is:

• A member of a trade organisation, like the British Dog Groomers Association (BDGA)

• Qualified in City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants and Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming

• Praised in referrals and reviews

• Recognised by awards

Another reason to look for one that's part of the BDGA is that it's part of the Pet Care Trade Association. This organisation keeps a list of groomers that they have accredited to a set standard.

Experience with your dog's breed and coat type

Finding a groomer that specialises in your dog's breed or coat type can make things more comfortable for your pup.

Insurance

Do dog groomers need insurance? Yes - you should make sure your groomer has some level of insurance. We know we're biased here, but insurance is really important.

Your groomer should have:

• Public liability insurance

• Employers' liability insurance (if they have staff)

They may also have:

• Business equipment insurance

• Goods-in-transit insurance (if they're mobile groomers)

• Personal accident insurance

The right temperament and communication style

This is personal. But find a groomer that has the right communication style and temperament for you and your dog. Each will have their own way of doing things, and there isn't a right or wrong here, just what fits best to keep you and your dog comfortable.

You can't beat real experiences, so look at referrals and reviews from pet owners to see if it's the right fit. You should try to find reviews that mirror your pet's breed, experiences and personality.

Questions to ask before booking

Most groomers will be open to a conversation, but some good questions to ask are:

• Are you trained in pet first aid?

• Can I tour the grooming facility first?

• Do you accommodate dogs with specific health conditions or disabilities (like arthritis or blindness)?

• How do you handle fearful, anxious, or aggressive dogs?

• How long does a typical session last?

• What are your cancellation policies or late fees?

• What are some specific techniques you use to calm down dogs?

• What is your process for nervous or older dogs?

• What is your protocol in case of an emergency or injury during grooming?

• What products do you use?

Comparing dog groomer prices

Dog grooming prices vary quite a bit. Things that influence price include:

• Coat type

• Groomer experience

• Location

• Services

• Your dog's size

Now, picking the right groomer does have a financial consideration. We can't tell you how to spend your money here, but try to weigh up the cheapest option and what gives you good value. For example, it may be better to pay a little more if the groomer is more experienced or is offering more services for the price.

How to find a local dog groomer

There are a few tried-and-tested ways to find a good, local groomer, like:

• Asking your vet for recommendations

• Consider mobile groomers if your dog is anxious or elderly

• Local community groups and social media

• Online search and review platforms

• Word-of-mouth from fellow dog owners (especially if they're the same or a similar breed)

Once you've found a few you like, we recommend visiting the facility and having a bit of a trial visit with the groomer to ask questions. Bring your dog with you to meet the groomer, positively reward them for staying calm and get to know the business, facilities and services.

Red flags to watch out for

• A dirty, disorganised salon

• Consistent complaints

• Dogs left unattended or in crates for a long time

• Inadequate consultation

• Lack of credentials and certifications

• Lack of transparency

• Lack of ventilation

• Negative online reviews

• No certification or insurance

• Poor hygiene

• Refusal to allow observation

• Reputation for upselling unnecessary services

• Unhappy employees

• Uncontrolled dogs roaming freely

• Unsafe handling of dogs

• Unwilling to discuss emergency protocols

• Unwillingness to answer questions

• Using unregulated spaces, like living rooms

• Vague pricing

After the groom: post-grooming care & observations

Your dog's behaviour after grooming depends on their attitude and past behaviour. If your dog is a little stressed, make sure you give them plenty of space, a nice walk and some treats.

It's important to foster a positive long-term relationship with a groomer. It's why we recommend positive reinforcement training principles. You should try to build up a positive connection between your dog and the groomer.

Afterwards, look for symptoms of irritation or major discomfort. Post-grooming issues that'll potentially need a vet's trained eye include:

• Anxiety or stress

• Appetite changes

• Avoidance

• Discharge

• Excessive itchiness

• Ear problems

• Eye problems

• Hair loss

• Pain and sensitivity

• Painful bumps or lumps

• Persistent low mood or lethargy

• Redness and inflammation

• Self-destructive behaviour

• Severe itchiness

• Spreading rash

• Sudden aggression

• Swelling

How dog insurance can help

So, grooming is important to keep your dog healthy and happy. But while you can do a lot of it yourself, a professional's guiding eye often helps.

For most other things, our dog insurance can help. We have up to £20,000 vet fee cover on our Complete Care plan, 24/7 video vet calls with FirstVet and a host of benefits through ManyPets Perks.

Up to £3,000 cover for complementary therapies with Complete Care

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