How To Start A Dog Grooming Business

Current statistics show that the percentage of dog owners is growing fast. By 2012, the percentage is expected to grow about 10%-20% more. There will be an even bigger demand for your dog grooming business so it would be wise to act on your dream now while the market is expanding.

The dog grooming profession is a very rewarding yet stressful job that a person weak of will and energy should not pursue. You work long hours, your always bending, lifting and cutting. Your back can hurt and your feet can hurt. Its a tough job. So all the power to you! Pursue your dream but I would also suggest going into the grooming salons in your area and talking to the manager, the workers and owners about what it is like to be a groomer, bather, owner, manager, etc. Ask about what it is like to work there and deal with dogs and customers, what they do and do not like, the injuries they have sustained, mistakes they made and so on.

Firstly, when starting your dog grooming business, you will have to decide on whether you want to work out of your home or have a mobile dog grooming unit. Having a business right out of your home will save some capital and eliminate the stress of commuting. However, if you want to offer convenience to your potential customers, a mobile unit might be a good idea. This is also a great direction to go if you live in a more rural area.

You will need to have the right supplies/tools/equipment. When first starting out in this career, having just the basics is the way to go. You can always buy more supplies and equipment when your business takes off.

You will want to have the correct licenses and permits to operate. Also, if you don't have the capital to start up a business. As long as you have decent credit, it is a good idea to look into signing up for a small business loan.

How about advertising. A good chunk of your initial investment will go towards advertising. ESPECIALLY at the start of your dog grooming business.

Take a look at your completion (if any) in your area. Take a look at what they charge and what services they offer to get ideas for your business.

Whether you know nothing or a lot about dog grooming, an education on a serious career choice is a must. You want to be 'certified" in this dog grooming career field. basically, you can take hands-on classes or take an online course.

Hands-on classes are the best way to go if you are the type of person that has to do as you learn. The only drawback is that these classes can be a bit pricey and it could be hard to find in your area.

Online classes are available to anyone. They are, in my opinion, the most affordable and informational. Just be sure to make sure the teachings include the grooming aspect, as well as, the business aspect. You'll need to be knowledgeable in both areas to succeed in this career.

I have reviewed many online dog grooming courses...
This is the best one I have found on how to start a dog grooming business.
It includes information on everything about grooming pets and how to start your dog grooming business. You receive a certificate upon completion to hang in you office. ;)

After deciding the dog groomer profession is for you and you have your education underway. There are always opportunities to grow your business after you start out.

How you start out in your dog grooming business depends on your customers. Your customers are your key to growth. Returning customers are your heart to the business. They are the ones that give you the "word of mouth" advertising for free. So, reward them. You want to have a list of your clients ("regulars") and make sure they keep returning by surprising them with coupons and discounts. Maybe a free days beauty for their dog after lets say..5 sessions. Get to know them and their life by casual conversation and remember things about them (interests/birthdays) and write them down in your list. Along with the owners, remember to write things about their pets. This way, once you get loads of customers, you will always remember important things and dates about each and every client and their pet. This provides above and beyond customer service. Also, to bring in more customers, offer some reward to your "regulars" for referring friends and family to your business. This in itself will build your clientele.