Live in Queens Park, Kensal or Notting Hill? Here’s how to choose a dog groomer without stressing your dog
If you live in Queens Park, Kensal or Notting Hill, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dog groomers.
But choice isn’t the same as confidence.
Because choosing a dog groomer isn’t really about who gives the fluffiest finish or the best Instagram shot. It’s about one thing most salons don’t talk about enough:
How your dog actually feels during the experience.
If your dog trembles at the door, refuses to go in, or comes home exhausted and on edge — this post is for you.
Here’s how to choose a dog groomer without stressing your dog (and without stressing yourself either).
1. Start With Your Dog — Not the Haircut
Before you Google “dog groomer near me” and click the first result, pause and think about your dog’s personality.
Ask yourself:
Are they nervous around new people?
Do they struggle with loud noises or busy environments?
Do they need time to warm up?
A good groomer adapts to your dog, not the other way around.
🚩 Red flag: One-size-fits-all grooming, rushed handling, no questions asked.
✅ Green flag: A groomer who asks about temperament, routines, sensitivities and past experiences.
2. Look for Calm Over Convenience
Busy salons aren’t always bad; but chaos is.
If a grooming space feels loud, frantic or overbooked, dogs pick up on it immediately. Stress travels fast on four legs.
What to look for instead:
A calm, unhurried atmosphere
Controlled numbers of dogs at any one time
Groomers who move slowly, confidently and kindly
This matters more than you think. Stress during grooming doesn’t just ruin the appointment, it can create long-term anxiety around being handled at all.
3. Ask How They Groom, Not Just What They Offer
Anyone can list services. What matters is how those services are delivered.
Good questions to ask:
How do you introduce dogs to the space?
What happens if a dog feels overwhelmed?
Do you rush to finish, or slow things down?
A thoughtful groomer will happily talk you through their process because they’re proud of it.
If the answer feels vague, defensive, or dismissive, trust your instincts.
4. Products Matter (Especially for Skin & Nerves)
Many dogs have sensitive skin and many humans don’t realise how harsh some grooming products can be.
Ask:
Are the shampoos dog-specific?
Are they non-toxic and gentle?
Do they suit sensitive or allergy-prone skin?
Harsh products don’t just irritate skin they can make the whole experience uncomfortable, itchy and stressful for your dog long after they leave the salon.
5. Watch How They Treat Other Dogs
One of the simplest (and most telling) checks: observe the groomer with dogs that aren’t yours.
Do they:
Speak calmly?
Handle gently?
Respect when a dog needs space?
Or do they rush, restrain unnecessarily, or ignore stress signals?
Dogs communicate constantly. The right groomer listens.
6. Trust Matters More Than Reviews
Reviews are helpful but they don’t tell the full story.
Instead, ask:
Do I feel heard when I talk to this groomer?
Do they respect my dog as an individual?
Would I feel comfortable leaving my dog here? Is there space. Can they separate dogs if need be in a humane way?
Choosing a groomer is an emotional decision. You’re handing over a family member.
You’re allowed to be picky.
So… What Should a Good Groom Feel Like?
A good groom isn’t just about coming home clean.
It looks like:
A dog who isn’t dreading their next visit
A calmer, more relaxed demeanour
A groomer who knows your dog by name not just breed
Because when grooming is done properly, it becomes part of your dog’s wellbeing, not something they have to endure.
If You’re Local and This Resonates…
If you’re based around Queens Park, Kensal, Notting Hill or wider NW and W London and you’re looking for a grooming experience that prioritises calm, care and kindness, you’re not alone.
We believe grooming should feel safe.
Unrushed.
And respectful of the dog in front of us.
If that sounds like what your dog needs, we’d love to meet them. No pressure, no judgement, just a proper conversation about what works best for them 🐾