Choosing a groomer

Published 2026-01-26

Before booking the first appointment with a new groomer, a 5-minute phone call answers most of your concerns. Here's what to ask:

1. How long have you been grooming, and what training do you have? (Apprenticeship, certification, or formal school)
2. How much experience do you have with my breed/coat type? Can you send recent photos?
3. How long does a typical full groom take, and is the dog kenneled between bath and cut?
4. Do you offer express or no-cage service? (Important for anxious dogs)
5. What's your policy if my dog is stressed or aggressive? (Sedation? Reschedule? Refuse service?)
6. Do you handle senior dogs differently? Have ramps? Use cool drying?
7. What are your prices, and what's included in a full groom vs. add-ons?
8. Do you do anal gland expression as default, or only on request?
9. How do you handle severe matting? (Avoid groomers who say "just cut through it" — that's painful and unsafe)
10. Can I see your salon/van before booking? Most legitimate groomers will say yes.

The answers should be specific, comfortable, and free of pressure to book. If they're vague or rushed, try someone else.

For mobile groomers specifically, also ask: "What's your service area?" and "Are you the only groomer who'll be in the van, or do you have employees?" You want to know who's actually handling your dog.