The Dog Grooming Business | Why You Should Start One And How To Do It

Recent statistics have shown that the dog population, and the percentage of dog owners is growing rapidly. As this happens, there will be a greater demand for pet groomers.

So great in fact, that its expected to grow 10% - 20% by 2012. As you can see this need will just keep getting bigger, but it could mean a great business opportunity for those who get in now, before it becomes to competitive in local markets.

Not as much as you might think. To some degree, its really up to you how much overhead is involved. For instance, do you wish to have a mobile unit or work from your home environment? launching this out of a nice space in your house could potentially reduce costs, but if you live out in the middle of nowhere, you may consider going the mobile pet grooming business route.

The only thing that you may consider investigating, is any possible need for insurance or zoning restrictions.

A groomer will typically do the following jobs on average with pets:

Shampooing/conditioning (sometimes with flea and tick shampoos)
Trimming facial hair
Keeping pads of paws trimmed
Cleaning out ears
Shaving for different breed styles
Drying


There can be other jobs to do as well, but even those are very simple, and not too time consuming. You can get it down to a science, and this trade is actually quite quick to pick up.

You will need basic training in grooming and dog grooming business management. Both of which are actually very simple and can be learned in and out extremely quickly. You have two choices for this. You can either take a hands on class in your area, or you can learn from a professional with an online course from home.

Courses can be very expensive going the local route, but luckily you will have one-on-one training. Online courses can typically be extremely affordable, but the only problem is that you won't necessarily have that instant support. You need to decide for you what's most important. There are though some fantastic online training materials that are top of the line in teaching.

Whatever you do, what you absolutely want in this kind of instruction is a source of learning that will also teaching you the pet grooming business side of things. You shouldn't just be learning about how to groom a pet, but also how to grow and maintain your business.

Luckily, some of the online courses have complete and printable business packages. In other words, all of your invoices and other paper work is provided for you to use.

Learn to make any breed of dog look good

How to keep pet owners coming back for more!

The secrets that you must know to maximize your profits

Includes step-by-step grooming techniques

Safety guide lines for your shop, the dog and you!

The one thing that you MUST know to be profitable above all other things

Beginner friendly - no experience required

Includes video instruction so you can SEE the grooming techniques

Secrets to putting dogs at ease including a trick to get dogs over the fear of having their nails clipped

The supplies that you need and don't need (so you won't waste money)

How to dress comfortable for dog grooming, but also look professional (hint: your image REALLY matters!)

6 perfect steps for brushing any dog like a professional groomer

How to handle difficult breed coats

Also includes specific instructions for over 100 breeds so you will be well prepared for anything that comes your way

This is not anywhere close to everything that is contained within this priceless pet grooming course! In fact, there is probably no other dog grooming course of it's kind online. This was developed by people who know their stuff and includes a 170 page guide, one 90 minute long video and one 60 minute long video. You will also receive a certificate that states you completed the course and get your name and resume listed in the Grooming Jobs database!

Click Here To Get The Training To Start Your Own Dog Grooming Business

I would be lying if I said that starting a dog grooming business doesn't require a little work, but I also assume that you already know that nothing comes free, and certainly not without a little elbow grease. The work load really isn't that bad, but for best results with your home based start up, networking is very key.

For one, its very important that you take the time to build a client list. These people are your bread and butter and past customers. A smooth move is to offer them a coupon every now and then for referring a friend, so that you can build your clientele.

Networking also means attending dog shows, where you will find lots of other groomers, handlers, merchants and magazine journalists. The dog show industry is huge, and this is the perfect place to pick up some ideas, pick some brains, and make your voice heard. Plus these events are a lot of fun, exciting and have a great, inspirational energy.

Don't forget to do a little advertising. Its very important that you have some business cards, fliers, brochures, and maybe a website to reach others.

Brand yourself. If you decide to have a little company name, please don't make it too generic. Make it catchy, and it has to relate to what your business is. Don't call it Dog Grooming Business, don't call it Shamrocks and Magpies. Do call it something like Grinning Grooming Pet Grooming Business, which indicates a happy animal and satisfied customer, and also tells people what its all about.

Image. You don't need to be super professional. You can be yourself, but you do want to find a nice look for dressing that you are comfortable with, but at the same time shows your professionalism. You should be showing your clients that you take your work seriously, while having fun at it. Make sure that your working environment is also very tidy, and has everything that you need.

Its OK to talk to other groomers to decide on what to charge, and to get ideas to save money, just maybe don't do it with other stylists in your own area.

Finally, every successful business learns wonderful ways to cut corners, without cutting quality. Luckily, grooming supplies is a plenty and so are deals. Shop around, and learn to tell that when a customer hands you $50, you know EXACTLY where every penny is going, so that you can make a great ROI (return on investment).

Dog grooming - Wikipedia