How to start my grooming business ?

Tips for setting up a dog grooming business

1. Get to know the industry

The best way to build your dog grooming CV is to volunteer at a kennel or become an apprentice at an established salon. Be prepared to be flexible as you get to know every aspect of running a salon, from understanding the behaviour of different breeds and their nutritional needs, to knowing which specific health problems to watch out for. With experience you can then consider going self-employed.

2. Weigh up the pros and cons

Make sure that you're fully committed to your business idea. You might love the idea of being around dogs all day, but are you prepared for the physical demands of the job? You'll be on your feet all day, often dealing with stressed out dogs and demanding owners. Speak to some experienced dog groomers to make sure you're fully aware of what the job entails.

3. Study a professionally-accredited course

Choosing a professionally-accredited course means you can feel confident that you're getting the training you need, which will put your future customers at ease too.

Dog groomers can also become a member of the local Dog Groomers'association to access further training, education, and support.

3. Decide on your niche

You’ll need to identify what makes your business unique so you can stand out in a competitive market. Are you going to specialise in grooming small dogs or long haired dogs? Will you focus on running a sustainable business with eco-friendly products?

Do your research and start marketing to potential clients.

4. Create a business plan and budget

It’s important to write your dog grooming business plan so you know how your business will be structured and marketed – but also how you expect it to grow.

It’s also useful to conduct competitor analysis to better understand the landscape you’re working in and how you can offer something different, better, or new compared to similar businesses in your area. You could even try visiting a few of your competitors as a customer if you or a friend has a dog.

You’ll also need to consider costs – expect to spend £500 to £1,500 at least in Uk – and budget accordingly. The cost of setting up your business will vary depending on whether you're going to run a mobile salon, lease a commercial property or work from home. Make sure you factor in rent and vehicle costs (where relevant) as well as the cost of your equipment.

5. Consider business insurance

Running a dog grooming business involves caring for people’s pets, which means they expect you to operate in a professional and careful way.

Getting a tailored pet grooming insurance policy can protect you, your premises, and the dogs in your care, should something go wrong.

6. Check legal requirements

Pls be sure if the licence is necessary for your groomers in your country. However, you should be aware of the following legislation:

Animal Welfare Act 2006 – you have a duty of care to people’s pets so you must follow good practice, which includes providing the right environment and nutrition, and protecting dogs from pain or injury

Copyright, Designs & Patents Act 1988 – if you’re planning to play music in your salon, make sure you organise a licence from PPL PRS

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) – when using potentially harmful chemicals, for example shampoos and cleaning products, make sure you know how to keep yourself and your employees safe by using the correct protective equipment

7. Buy professional dog grooming equipment

Generally speaking, dog groomers will use the equipment listed below.

Grooming essentials 

grooming table

clippers

scissors

dematting comb

brushes

nail clippers (various sizes)

Bathing and pampering

spa bath or bathtub

dryers

drying box machine

shampoo

conditioner

flea shampoo

towels

More details about pet grooming equpments details,pls feel free to contact us for more details by email at [email protected]