How to Choose the Right Dog Groomer (And Spot the Wrong Ones)
If your dog’s basically your child (but furrier, smellier, and with a questionable taste in puddles), choosing the right groomer isn’t optional; it’s essential. A good groomer keeps them clean, healthy, and safe. A bad one? Stress city. For both of you.
So, how do you sniff out the best groomer near you and dodge the dodgy ones? Here’s your guide.
1. Look Beyond the Cute Instagram Pics
Yes, fluffy before-and-afters are nice. But what you really want to know is:
Do they use safe, non-toxic products?
Are the tools cleaned and disinfected between every dog? Check to see if they have a dedicated station to disinfect. This is especially important to ask home visiting groomers. How are they disinfecting their tools between clients?
Do they have clean towels for every dog and every situation? If you’ve heard about fellow customers having skin issues, this is often down to dirty towels. (It happens more than you would like to know!)
Is the space designed for wagging tails, not waiting stress? Can they separate dogs out in safe areas that are clean and comfortable?
At Dirty Dog Washes, we’re obsessed with hygiene and safety. (Because your pup deserves fresh shampoo, not someone else’s leftovers.)
2. Check the Groomer’s Credentials
Anyone can pick up a pair of scissors, but proper training and industry standards matter.
Ask if they’re members of the Pet Industry Federation
Find out where they trained and if they have their level three certification – ask to see their paperwork.
Make sure they know their stuff for all coat types from scruffy terriers to high-maintenance poodles.
Pro tip: a confident groomer won’t mind you asking questions. If they get cagey, it’s a red flag.
3. Ask About Safety (Not Just Style)
Good looks mean nothing if safety isn’t front and centre. The right groomer will:
Do a health check before every session (ears, nails, skin).
Know how to handle nervous or elderly dogs.
Never push your pup past their comfort level.
Because grooming isn’t just vanity. It’s wellbeing.
4. Visit the Salon First
Your dog can’t exactly tell you if a place feels right but their body language will. If they don’t want to go in – that tells you something! Take them for a sniff around before you book:
Do the staff interact with your dog kindly and confidently?
Is the vibe calm, clean, and welcoming?
Or does it feel like a conveyor belt?
Trust your gut (and your pup’s tail).
5. Value Over Price
Yes, you can find cheaper. But ask yourself:
What corners are being cut?
Are the products safe?
Will they rush your dog through?
At Dirty Dog Washes, we don’t do cut corners. We price our services accordingly for the quality of service being delivered. Lovingly, professionally, and with higher-than-recommended standards.
FAQs about choosing a dog groomer
How do I choose a good dog groomer near me?
Look for groomers who are trained, use non-toxic products, keep their tools disinfected, and make your dog feel safe and relaxed. Visit the salon first and trust both your gut and your dog’s reaction.
What should I ask a dog groomer before booking?
Ask about their training and certifications, how they keep dogs safe, what products they use, and whether they’re members of professional bodies like the Pet Industry Federation or the Dog Groomers Association.
How often should my dog be professionally groomed?
Most dogs need grooming every 4–8 weeks, depending on breed, coat type, and lifestyle. High-maintenance coats like poodles and doodles need more frequent grooming.
Is dog grooming worth the money?
Yes. Grooming isn’t just about looks — it’s about your dog’s wellbeing. Regular grooming prevents matting, keeps nails at a healthy length, helps spot health issues early, and keeps your pup comfortable and clean.
Do groomers check for ticks, fleas, or skin issues?
Good groomers do. At Dirty Dog Washes, we always check for common issues like ticks, fleas, ear infections, and skin problems during a groom.