Whether you have a long-coated or short-coated breed, a visit to the dog groomers takes care of more than just your dog’s appearance. Dog Groomers will ensure your dog’s nails are trimmed, monitor your dog’s skin, ears and coat health, and of course…. bathe your dog and keep them feeling and smelling their best!
Some dog groomers also offer ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, nail trimming and advice on coat maintenance.
Choosing a good dog groomer needn’t be a struggle. Check out our 8 tips for finding a good dog groomer near you that matches your dog’s needs.
How to find a good dog groomer
- Consider your dog’s temperament and coat needs.
Is your dog comfortable in new environments? Do they feel at ease around other dogs? Is your dog crate trained? Some busier dog grooming salons may crate dogs for short periods – so do ask about this if your dog isn’t happy in a crate.
If you have a long-coated or double-coated breed, you may need to visit the groomers more regularly – so consider location and ease of access when making your choice.
- Consider what type of dog groomer would be best for your dog
You can choose from dog grooming salons, holistic dog groomers and mobile dog groomers – they all offer slightly different grooming environments and experiences which may be more/less suitable for your dog.
- Ask friends or local dog owners for recommendations
Ask people you meet on dog walks, in local doggy Facebook groups and check out reviews of any dog groomers you’re considering. It’s as important to learn about any bad dog groomers in your area as the good ones, so you can give them a wide berth!
- Ask your vet for a recommendation
Your local vet will likely be aware of good dog groomers in your area. There may also be cards from local dog service providers in the waiting room. Look the groomers up online and check out their reviews – you still need to do your own due diligence when choosing a groomer.
- Ask potential groomers plenty of questions
The dog grooming industry is unregulated, which means anybody can set up as a groomer. Ask potential groomers about their qualifications and experience. Ask about security and your dog’s safety when they’re in the groomers care, and pop in and take a look around. We have a full list of questions for you to ask further on in this blog.
- Be honest with your dog groomer
It’s really important to be honest with your dog groomer about your dog, so they’re able to take the best care of your best buddy. Be upfront about any ailments, health issues, temperament and any fears – so your groomer can take care of your dog’s needs.
- Read reviews!
Your local dog groomer should have reviews on Google or on their Facebook page. Take some time to read through them so you can get first-hand accounts from people who’ve used them before.
8. Check their qualifications
Dog groomers should be qualified – so be sure to ask what qualifications your potential groomer has and ask for evidence. Or search on Yappily, where we’ve done these checks for you! All dog groomers listed on Yappily are qualified to a level 2 and 3 diploma standard.
Find a local dog groomer near you here (and check out their reviews)
Types of dog groomer to choose from
There are three main types of dog groomer to consider. Think about which may be the best fit for your individual dog, then hit our search to find a local dog groomer near you.
- Dog Grooming Salon
- Mobile Dog Groomer
- Holistic Dog Groomer
A dog grooming salon will typically have more than one dog in at any one time, they may even have multiple grooming tables in the same room. If you have a nervous or reactive dog then let the groomer know when you enquire, as some grooming salons offer early or later slots when they are quieter.
A mobile dog groomer will come to your home. Some will have a bespoke dog grooming van and will just ask to hook up to your electrics and others may groom your dog in your home. This gives your dog a 1-2-1 grooming experience which may be a better option for reactive or nervous dogs.
A holistic dog groomer aims to groom your dog with minimal stress. They will put your dog’s mental wellbeing first and take their time to get your dog comfortable with being groomed.
What questions should you ask a groomer?
It’s important to have an open and honest discussion with any dog groomer you’re considering, and that goes both ways! Be upfront and honest about your dog and you can expect the same courtesy from the groomer you’re talking to.
- What qualifications/experience do you have?
- Have you groomed a *insert your dog’s breed* before?
- Are you insured?
- Are you first aid trained?
- Will there be other dogs in the grooming facility?
- Will my dog be crated or loose in the grooming facility? (if loose, you want to ask how they prevent escapees!)
- How much will the groom cost?
- Can I pop in and see your facility before my dog’s groom?
- How long will the grooming appointment take?
- What grooming services do you provide?
How much does dog grooming cost?
The price of dog grooming will vary depending on your area, your dog’s breed, coat type and condition, and the groomer you choose.
A more experienced groomer may cost more than a newbie dog groomer, but you’re benefiting from their years of experience, education, and skill.
A dog grooming salon may cost a little more than a mobile groomer, since their overheads are typically higher.
The most influential factor on the price of your dog’s groom is usually down to your dog’s size, coat type and coat condition. Regular grooming can keep costs down since your dog’s coat will stay in tip-top condition – making the experience more pleasant for your dog and easier for your groomer.
A dog groomer should be able to give you a price for their services once they know your dog’s breed and size, so give them a call and ask!
Find a dog groomer near you now
How to keep a good dog groomer!
Once you’ve found your perfect dog groomer, you don’t want to let them go! Make sure you keep your appointments, arrive on time to drop off and pick up your dog, and leave them a lovely review to show how much you appreciate them.
And spread the word! Help other local dog owners find your brilliant dog groomer and add them to Yappily.
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