4 questions when choosing a dog groomer

Grooming is very important for our pups. Not only does it leave them looking smart, tidy and healthy but it can also be vital to their physical health by keeping them clean.  However, getting dogs to sit still long enough to give them a trim and a clean can be a challenge and you need to make sure that you choose a professional who is experienced and confident enough to understand your pet. Here are a few questions that you should ask to help you in your decision.

1. Have you met your dog groomer?

Having an initial consultation or meeting with your dog groomer can go a long way to helping you make your decision. You can have a look around their premises to see if they are safe, secure and clean and you will be able to get a feel for whether the dog groomer will be a good match for working with your pet.

2. Are they qualified?

Dog groomers in the UK are not required to hold any professional qualifications; however some may have a City and Guilds qualification, which you can ask to see.  They may also be members of professional trade groups such as the British Dog Groomers Association (BDGA). Whilst not compulsory, this can be a good indicator that they take their job seriously and are up to date with the latest practices.

3. Are they responsible?

Dog groomers have a legal responsibility to take care of your dog under the Animal Welfare Act. This is due to poor practices in the past where dogs have been harmed by their groomers due to faulty equipment or a lack of supervision.

The best way to ensure that your dog groomer is safe and professional is to ask for recommendations from your friends, family, veterinary practice and dog trainer, all of whom may be able to recommend someone that they have had their dog groomed by. You should also do a quick search on Google to see if anyone has left negative reviews or made any comments which might raise red flags about a particular dog groomer.

4. Will your dog enjoy the experience?

Our dogs are all different; some may be confident and outgoing while others can be timid and shy. When thinking about having your dog groomed you should consider how they might feel. For instance, if your dog is nervous around new people or gets scared when you aren’t around then it might be unwise to drop them off at a salon and you should maybe consider other options. Many dog groomers today operate remotely and may be able to visit your home to provide their services, ensuring that your dog feels calm and safe.

For more practical tips on dog training, behaviour therapy and more please visit our articles page which is full of free advice.