If you love dogs and are thinking of starting a dog grooming business, you have come to the right place. We will talk you through the necessary steps on how the professionals start their very own dog grooming business. Running your own dog grooming business can be very rewarding and an extremely enjoyable startup to embark upon. So, read on and start planning your tomorrow, today!
Dog Grooming Requirements
There is a growing demand for professional dog grooming. In part, this is due to the rise in poodle-type breeds, which have coats that require a high level of care, including regular grooming and trimming to prevent them from becoming matted and uncomfortable. Many people don’t have the time, or skill to trim their own dogs, so your dog grooming business is fulfilling an existing need. Take a look around where you live and see how many dogs are out and about and what types of coats they have. They are your customers.
Qualifications You Need to Become a Dog Groomer
You don’t legally need any qualifications to become a dog groomer. However, a City and Guilds qualification will set you apart from your competitors and give you a professional edge. Training is also instrumental in making sure that you are an excellent dog groomer, which will ensure a good flow of repeat customers.
Steps to Successfully Set up a Dog Grooming Business
It can seem overwhelming to set up a dog grooming business from scratch. However, we will talk you through the necessary steps in order for you to launch your successful dog grooming business.
Step 1. Define Your Business Concept
Your business concept is what you are offering. Are you going mobile with a van travelling to your customers? Or are you going for a brick-and-mortar salon? What will your niche be? Some dog groomers specialise in certain breeds, which can set you apart from other dog groomers in your area.
Step 2. Choose a name for Dog Grooming Business
The fun part! Choose a fun name that people will remember, and that says what you do. If you are unsure about your choices, ask your friends and family and see what they think. Check out the other dog grooming business names locally, so that yours is not too similar, which could lead to confusion.
Step 3. Register Your Business
A pet grooming business can be structured in different ways. It is sensible to discuss the options with your accountant, lawyer, or business advisor to ensure that you choose the best setup for your business.
Step 4. Get Professional Dog Grooming Training
Set yourself apart from your competitors with a professional City and Guilds dog grooming training course. Here at Anrich Dog Grooming School, we offer comprehensive City and guild qualifications that cover all aspects of starting your own dog grooming business, from perfecting your trim, to advertising your business.
Step 5. Buy High Quality & Good Dog Grooming Tools and Supplies
You will need to make some initial capital investments to kit yourself out as a dog groomer. Remember that what you buy will need to be tailored around the type of business that you are going to operate. A mobile van has a smaller footprint than a standard parlour, so you will need to choose wisely. You will need the following as a minimum:
- Grooming table
- Shower with suitable attachments
- Driers
- Brushes, combs, shearers, and clippers
- Nail clippers
- Shampoo and conditioner
Step 6. Establish pricing
Check out what other dog grooming businesses charge locally. You need to decide what sort of business you want to run. Some people offer a high-end premium dog grooming service, whilst others aim for more middle of the market. If you set your prices higher than your competitors you need to give customers a good reason to come to you for their dog grooming.
Step 7. Promote your Dog Grooming Business
You could have the best dog grooming business idea, and be super talented, but if no one knows that you exist then they won’t come to you. Plan how you are going to market your dog grooming business. Websites, flyers, working with other businesses in the area, and social media, are all great ways to get yourself known around your area. Shout about your grooming business, so that everyone knows about you!
Average Cost of Setting Up a Dog Grooming Business
Industry setting up costs vary wildly from £500 to £30000! It largely depends on the setup of your dog grooming business. If you are going for a mobile set-up, you will need to factor in the cost of a van and convert it into a salon. If you are looking at a brick-and-mortar business, you need your equipment. If you are looking at running it from home, you will need to consider the costs of building works to convert a downstairs area or garage into a dog grooming area. Whatever you choose, do your research. Look at the cost of vans, get a quote from a builder, and price up the minimum equipment that you need. Don’t forget about start-up costs such as advertising your business and your initial stock purchases.
Start your dog groomers career today!
Setting up your own dog grooming business can be extremely rewarding. With In-Depth Dog Grooming Course, you will be ready to start your own business the moment you qualify. So, don’t delay, change your life today and sign up to start your dog grooming qualifications today.