How to choose the right groomer for your dog

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. Why professional grooming matters Grooming has clear, proven benefits for dogs, including: 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: 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: And then some may offer specialised services, like: 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: 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: They may also have: 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: Comparing dog groomer prices Dog grooming prices vary quite a bit. Things that influence price include: 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: 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 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: 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. Our dog insurance may help with up to £20,000 vet fee cover, access to 24/7 video vet call support as standard and a host of ManyPets Perks.

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