Pet owners book groomers they trust, again and again. Here is how to build a grooming business on skill, safety and repeat clients.
Most states do not require a license to groom dogs, though a few states and some cities have rules for grooming facilities. Skill and safety are what protect you. Common paths include apprenticing under an experienced groomer, attending a grooming school and earning voluntary certifications from industry organizations. Learn breed-specific cuts, coat types, handling and restraint, skin and coat problems to refer to a vet, and safe use of clippers, scissors and dryers.
See how EZTime works for your industry, from time tracking to shift scheduling.
| Model | How it works | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Storefront salon | Clients drop off pets at your shop | Higher rent and build-out; can serve more dogs per day and add staff |
| Mobile grooming van | Fully equipped van visits clients | Convenience premium; van and equipment cost; fewer dogs per day; water and power systems |
| Home-based | Grooming in a dedicated space at home | Lowest cost; check zoning, HOA rules and permits |
| Inside another business | Space in a pet store, vet clinic or boarding facility | Built-in traffic; revenue share or rent |
| Add-on to boarding or daycare | Grooming for existing daycare and boarding clients | Steady demand; coordination needed |
Check with your city and county about animal-related business permits, kennel or pet facility licenses and wastewater rules. See our legal requirements checklist.
| Coverage | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| General liability | Covers injuries to people and property damage |
| Animal bailee or care, custody and control | Covers injury to or loss of pets in your care; often excluded from standard liability |
| Professional liability | Covers claims of mistakes in grooming services |
| Commercial auto | Required for mobile grooming vans |
| Equipment coverage | Covers tubs, tables, dryers and van build-outs |
| Workers’ compensation | Required for employees in most states; bites and lifting injuries happen |
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Bathing | Raised tub with ramp or lift, sprayer, water heater, shampoos and conditioners |
| Drying | High-velocity dryer, stand dryer; never leave dogs unattended under heated dryers |
| Tables | Hydraulic or electric grooming tables with grooming arms and safety loops |
| Tools | Clippers and blades, scissors, brushes, combs, nail grinders and clippers, ear cleaning supplies |
| Safety | Muzzles, non-slip mats, first aid kit for pets and people, ear protection |
| Kennels | Crates for drop-off dogs, cleaned between uses |
| Sanitation | Disinfectants, laundry setup, hair and waste disposal |
| Technology | Online booking, reminders, client and pet records, payments |
Good ventilation, temperature control and non-slip flooring make the space safer for dogs and groomers.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Space or vehicle | Salon lease and build-out, or a mobile grooming van with water tanks, generator and plumbing |
| Equipment | Tub, tables, dryers, clippers, blades, shears |
| Supplies | Shampoos, conditioners, towels, disinfectants |
| Licensing and permits | Business license, zoning, any animal facility permits |
| Insurance | Liability, animal bailee, auto, equipment |
| Training | Grooming school or certification fees |
| Marketing and software | Website, booking system, signage |
A home-based setup has the lowest startup cost, while a fully equipped mobile van or a storefront with several stations costs much more. Get quotes for your specific plan.
Clear policies on aggressive dogs, matted coats (and when shaving is necessary), late pick-ups and cancellations prevent disputes.
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| Size and breed | Larger and double-coated breeds take more time |
| Service level | Bath and brush, full groom, hand scissoring, specialty cuts |
| Coat condition | Mats and dematting add time; many groomers charge extra |
| Behavior | Dogs needing extra handling may cost more or need special appointments |
| Add-ons | Nail grinding, teeth brushing, de-shedding treatments, special shampoos |
| Mobile convenience | Mobile groomers typically charge more per visit |
Price by the time each service takes plus a fair margin. Time your grooms for a few weeks to learn your real averages. Check numbers with the profit margin calculator.
A typical salon day starts with check-in: confirm services, review notes and vaccination records, and agree on pickup time. Dogs are bathed and dried in order, then groomers finish cuts while bathers start the next dogs. Staggered drop-offs keep crates from overflowing and reduce stress. At the end of the day, clean and disinfect tubs, tables and kennels, sharpen or send out blades, wash towels and restock. Tracking how long each groom actually takes helps you adjust bookings and prices.
eztime’s scheduling software and time clock help small teams manage shifts and hours. See our salon management guide for running a service business.
Most states do not require a groomer license, but some states and cities regulate grooming facilities or require business, kennel or animal facility permits. Check local rules.
Mobile grooming offers convenience and often higher prices per visit but fewer dogs per day and high vehicle costs. A salon can serve more dogs and add staff. The best choice depends on your market and budget.
Prices depend on size, breed, coat condition, service level and location. Time your grooms and price to cover your costs and margin, then compare with local competitors.
General liability plus coverage for animals in your care, often called animal bailee or care, custody and control coverage, and commercial auto for mobile vans. Workers’ compensation is needed once you hire.
Pre-book the next appointment, keep detailed pet notes, send reminders, provide consistent results and communicate well with owners.
Yes, but commission pay for employees must still meet minimum wage for all hours worked and overtime rules. Some states have additional rules for commission pay.
It depends on breed, size, coat condition and services. A groomer working with a bather can usually handle more dogs than a groomer working alone. Track your actual times to plan bookings realistically.
Store training records and licenses in EZTime’s digital employee file and get reminded before one runs out. See current plans and what each one includes on the pricing page.