How to Become a Dog Groomer in 7 Steps

Many dog breeds need their day of beauty too-you know the breeds I'm talking about! Don't our pups deserve a stress-free day at the salon? This may be the perfect business for you if are a dog lover with a passion for grooming. Read below for the steps on how to become a dog groomer.

1. Getting started:

   ·Select a business name.

   ·Purchase a domain to establish a website that lists your services and prices.

   · An Instagram account is also a great idea to showcase all your fabulous-looking pups.

   
   

2. Location:

   ·Mobile grooming: Convert a van into a dog grooming business. Make life easier for your clients and drive directly to them. Mobile groomers can charge a bit more due to the convenience.

   ·A physical location: Rent or purchase space for your dog spa. You can start from scratch and create the space of your pup dreams or look for an established dog grooming business for sale.

   ·Franchise: A franchise may be an option as they are already established with a brand name and offer various assistance such as training and advertising

3. Legal issues and taxes:

   ·Some states may require a specific license to become a dog groomer. 

   ·Register your business with your state and obtain a federal tax ID number (EIN).

   ·Consider setting up an LLC to protect yourself and your assets.

   ·Obtain insurance to be prepared for any issues related to injury to yourself or animals in your care as well as property.

   ·Talk to a tax professional to determine how to prepare.

4. Startup supplies:·        

   ·Dog grooming clippers and trimmers

   ·Hands-free dryer

   ·Dog grooming table

   ·Dog grooming tub

   ·Crates or playpens

5. Certification is not necessary; however, some certifications will give you an edge.

   
   

   

   
   

   ·Fear Free Certified Groomer certification

   ·CPR certified

   ·National Certified Master Groomer through the National Dog Groomers Association of America

   ·AKC S.A.F.E. (Safety, Assurance, Fundamentals, Education) Groomer Certified through the American Kennel Club

   
   

6. Extra services to offer:

   ·Self-service dog washing stations

   ·All natural products

   ·Nail cutting

   ·Anal gland expression

   ·Flea bath

   ·Skunk spray treatment

   ·Ear cleaning

   
   

7. Marketing:

   ·List your location in Google.

   ·Ask clients to write a Yelp or Google review.

   ·Offer referral discounts.

   ·Offer services in Facebook city and town groups.

   
   

   If you are looking to be a dog groomer and have never done it before look into trainee programs in your area. It can be scary to start a business or a new endeavor in life. There are resources and I encourage you to use them. Two that are available to you are www.Score.org and www.SBA.gov.