Careers Career Paths How to Start a Dog Grooming Business Print Hero Images / Getty Images Career Paths Animal Careers Technology Careers Sports Careers Sales Project Management Professional Writer Music Careers Media Legal Careers US Military Careers Government Careers Finance Careers Fiction Writing Careers Entertainment Careers Criminology Careers Book Publishing Aviation Advertising Learn More Table of Contents Expand Training & Certification Business Considerations Purchasing Equipment Marketing Pricing Services By Mary Hope Kramer Mary Hope Kramer Executive Office Manager/Animal Industry Writer Berry College Mary Hope Kramer works in the equine industry and has a passion for careers in the animal industry. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on 11/10/19 Dog grooming salons can be a profitable option for those looking to start a business in the animal service industry. Americans spent more than $72 billion dollars on pets in 2018, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), and that number is projected to top $75 million in 2019. The category of other pet services, which includes grooming, accounted for more than $6 million, or about 8%, of the money spent. Pet services are the fastest-growing sector of the pet industry, and the APPA projects that pet services will continue to grow. Dog grooming businesses should show continued profitability as the more than 63 million households with dogs continue to increase their spending across the board on care and services for their pets. Training & Certification To be a successful dog groomer you must acquire the necessary skills, either by completing a formal grooming program, shadowing an established professional, or through experience gained in the world of dog shows. Several schools are available to provide training and certification for anyone interested in being a dog groomer. While certification is not necessary to work as a dog groomer, it is beneficial for marketing purposes and makes it clear to prospective customers that you have some training. Business Considerations The first step is to form your business as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. There are tax and liability considerations for each type of business entity, so it is wise to consult with an accountant or attorney to evaluate which options will best suit a grooming business. You may decide to rent a space in an established salon, open your own salon and operate as a solo practitioner, or open your own salon and invite other groomers to rent space in your location. Next, you have to determine whether you will operate out of a retail space or a mobile grooming salon. Most dog groomers rent a storefront from a commercial real estate company or convert a building on their property to accommodate grooming activities. Mobile grooming is an increasingly popular trend but requires a significant investment to upgrade a van with the necessary equipment. Purchasing Equipment One of the most substantial start-up costs for a grooming salon is the purchase of equipment. Necessary basic equipment for grooming businesses includes clippers, shears, scissors, brushes, shampoos, conditioners, sprays, dryers, nail clippers, ear cleaning products, bandanas, and bows. Salons also are usually equipped with washing machines, dryers, bathtubs, professional grooming tables, and cages. Equipment such as dryers, tubs, and tables each can cost hundreds of dollars depending on size, style, and quality. Marketing One of the most important factors in making your dog grooming business successful is to distinguish it from the competition. You need to develop a memorable name and logo that customers will remember. There are many advertising options to generate buzz for a new dog grooming business. You can send out flyers, catalogs, or postcards to potential clients in your area. You also can leave advertising items and business cards at dog parks, pet boutiques, or veterinary clinics. A website with a weekly newsletter is also a great way to advertise and keep clients informed. Be sure to include special offers and coupons to give potential clients an incentive to try out your services. Consider putting print ads with coupons on Craigslist, in local magazines, and in local newspapers. Dog groomers may choose to network with veterinarians, dog trainers, dog walkers, and doggie daycare owners to gain and give referrals. You might also consider giving away gift certificates to your salon as a part of animal rescue charity fundraisers or other community events. Word of mouth will be a major factor in advertising your business as it becomes established. Satisfied customers tend to refer their friends to your business, and eventually, this will become a major source of revenue. Pricing Services When determining the prices for grooming services, it is wise to research the current rates in your area. Your prices should fall into a similar range so your business will be competitive, and it is smart to price slightly lower when first establishing a clientele to encourage customers to give you a chance. Offering a special discount rate to first-time visitors is another sure way to get new clients in the door. It is also important to consider the breed of dog, the type of cut required, and the time it takes to complete the grooming service when establishing your rate.