15 Questions to Ask a Dog Groomer [UK 2026] + Red Flags
Folkestone Groomers Team
21 September 2025
12 min read
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15 Questions to Ask a Dog Groomer [UK 2026] + Red Flags to Avoid
Finding the right groomer feels overwhelming when you don't know what to look for. With the UK dog grooming industry being largely unregulated, anyone can set up shop and call themselves a professional.
The UK pet grooming market is worth over £530 million annually and growing fast,[1] but there's no legal requirement for groomers to have qualifications or insurance.[2] Anyone can legally set up a grooming business tomorrow, regardless of experience or training.
Ask about their Level 3 Diploma certification, insurance coverage, first aid training, and experience with your dog's breed. Always tour their facilities and watch how they handle nervous dogs. These 15 questions separate the pros from the pretenders.
Insurance — public liability and professional indemnity.
First aid — canine first aid certification.
Salon tour — clean, organised, safe workspace.
Nervous dogs — gentle handling and clear calming strategies.
Sensitive-skin products — pH-balanced dog shampoos; see best dog shampoo.
Breed experience — specific coat and clip knowledge.
Pricing & policies — transparent quotes and fair terms; see grooming prices.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Bad groomers can traumatise your dog for life. We're not being dramatic - dogs can refuse to be touched after one terrible experience.
The Grooming Boom Has a Dark Side
Everyone wants a Cockapoo or Labradoodle these days. These gorgeous dogs need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, which means big business for groomers.
The problem? Anyone can call themselves a groomer. No licence required, no mandatory training, no oversight. Your dog's safety depends entirely on your ability to spot the good ones.
What Goes Wrong
Poor grooming isn't just about a bad haircut. We're talking about:
Cuts and nicks - from inexperienced hands with sharp tools
Severe matting - that restricts blood flow and causes pain
Skin irritation - from harsh products or rough handling
Psychological trauma - that makes future grooming a nightmare
Where to Find the Good Ones
Start with people who actually know dogs. Random Google searches won't tell you if a groomer is gentle with nervous dogs or rushes through appointments.
Ask Dog People
Dog owners love talking about their groomers - if they're good. Here's who to ask:
Your vet - they see the results of good and bad grooming
Dog park regulars - especially those with well-groomed dogs
Local Facebook groups - where people share honest experiences
Dog training classes - trainers know who handles dogs well
The Meet-and-Greet is Everything
Never book without visiting first. A good groomer wants to meet your dog and will happily show you around.
Watch how they interact with your dog. Do they get down to your dog's level? Do they let your dog sniff them first? These details matter.
The Questions That Matter
Don't feel awkward about asking these questions. Good groomers expect them and bad ones will get defensive.
Check Their Credentials
"What qualifications do you have?" Look for Level 3 Diploma certification from City & Guilds or iPET. These aren't weekend courses - they're proper qualifications.
"Are you insured?" Professional indemnity and public liability insurance are non-negotiable. If they hesitate, walk away.
"Do you have first aid training?" Dogs can have medical emergencies during grooming. Your groomer should know what to do.
"How long have you been grooming?" Experience matters, but so does ongoing training. The best groomers never stop learning.
Safety and Cleanliness
"Can I see your grooming area?" It should be clean, well-lit, and organised. Dirty tools spread disease.
"How do you clean your equipment?" Look for UV sterilisers, blade wash, and proper disinfection protocols.
"What's your vaccination policy?" Policies vary by salon; many require up-to-date core vaccinations and records. If your dog has exemptions or skin conditions, ask your vet for guidance before booking.
"How do you handle emergencies?" They should have a first aid kit and clear protocols for accidents.
The Grooming Process
"What's included in a full groom?" Nail trimming and ear cleaning should be standard, not expensive add-ons.
"What products do you use?" Ask for pH-balanced, dog-specific shampoos. Hypoallergenic or medicated options should be used per vet guidance. Avoid human shampoos and harsh fragrances. See our dog shampoo guide.
"How do you handle anxious dogs?" They should have strategies beyond just restraining nervous dogs. Look for groomers who use positive reinforcement, offer breaks, and work at your dog's pace. For more on this topic, see our guide to calming anxious dogs during grooming.
"Do you have experience with my breed?" A Poodle cut is very different from a Spaniel trim. Breed knowledge matters.
Practical Stuff
"What are your prices?" Get a clear quote upfront. Hidden charges are a red flag.
"How long does grooming take?" Rushed jobs lead to stressed dogs and poor results.
"What's your cancellation policy?" Life happens. Reasonable policies show they understand.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
They Won't Show You Around
Any groomer who refuses to show their workspace is hiding something. Maybe it's dirty, maybe it's chaotic, maybe it's unsafe. You don't want to find out.
They Play Vet
Good groomers spot problems and refer you to your vet. Bad ones try to diagnose and treat issues themselves.
Run if they offer:
Anaesthesia-free dentals - dangerous and ineffective
Medical advice - that's your vet's job
Treatments for skin conditions - without vet consultation
They Force Scared Dogs
A good groomer will stop if your dog is genuinely distressed. Bad ones power through because "the job needs doing."
Your dog's mental health matters more than a perfect haircut. A patient groomer builds trust over multiple visits.
Suspiciously Cheap Prices
Quality costs money. Rock-bottom prices usually mean corners are being cut somewhere.
Cheap grooming often means:
Rushed appointments - stressed dogs and poor results
Cheap products - that can irritate skin
Unqualified staff - learning on your dog
Poor equipment - that breaks or hurts
What Great Groomers Do Differently
The best groomers treat your dog like their own. Here's what sets them apart:
They Never Stop Learning
Top groomers invest in ongoing education. They attend workshops, learn new techniques, and stay current with breed standards.
Many have additional qualifications:
Veterinary nursing background - understanding health issues
Premium products and equipment aren't just for show. They make grooming safer and more comfortable.
Look for:
Natural shampoos - free from harsh chemicals
Adjustable tables - comfortable for dogs of all sizes
Multiple dryer options - for different coat types and sensitivities
Sharp, clean tools - maintained properly and regularly; see our essential grooming tools guide to understand professional standards
They Put Dogs First
Great groomers work at your dog's pace, not their schedule. They'll take breaks, offer treats, and stop if needed.
They also educate you about home care. The best groomers want to help you maintain your dog's coat between visits, even if it means less frequent appointments.
Quality groomers will recommend the right tools for home maintenance. One essential tool every dog owner should have is a professional-grade slicker brush to prevent matting between appointments.
Recommended: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Professional groomers use quality slicker brushes to prevent matting and maintain coat health between full grooms. The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is the UK's bestselling grooming tool with over 60,000 reviews.
Why groomers recommend it:
Fine bent wire bristles remove loose fur without scratching skin
Self-cleaning button releases collected hair in seconds
Comfortable ergonomic grip for extended brushing sessions
Works on all coat types - from Poodles to Golden Retrievers
Cost savings: Regular brushing at home (3x per week) can extend time between professional grooms from 6 to 8 weeks, saving £200+ annually.
Price checked January 2026. Free UK delivery with Prime.
Making Your Decision
Don't rush this choice. Your dog will hopefully see this groomer for years to come.
Start with a basic service first. A bath and brush-out lets you see how they handle your dog without committing to a full groom. For puppies or dogs new to grooming, read our guide on what to expect at your dog's first grooming appointment.
Trust your dog's reaction. If they're happy to see the groomer on the second visit, you've found a good one.
Remember, the cheapest option is rarely the best option. Your dog's safety and comfort are worth paying for. A good groomer becomes part of your dog's healthcare team, spotting issues early and keeping your dog healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications should a dog groomer have in the UK?
The industry standard is a Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming from City & Guilds (7763-03), iPET Network, or AIM Awards.[3] This qualification demonstrates proper training in dog handling, coat types, breed standards, and safety protocols.
Additional certifications to look for include canine first aid training (CPD-accredited)[4] and membership in professional bodies like the British Dog Groomers' Association (BDGA) or British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA).[5] Note: There's no legal requirement for qualifications in the UK, but these credentials indicate professional competence.
How do I know if a dog groomer is insured?
Ask to see their certificate of insurance. Professional groomers should have both public liability insurance (typically £1-5 million coverage) and professional indemnity insurance to protect against accidents, injuries, or damages.
Red flag: Any groomer who refuses to provide proof of insurance or becomes defensive when asked. This is a standard question that all legitimate professionals expect and welcome.
What questions should I ask a dog groomer before booking?
Ask these 15 essential questions:
What qualifications do you have?
Are you insured (public liability and professional indemnity)?
Do you have first aid training?
Can I tour your grooming facility?
How do you clean your equipment?
What's your vaccination policy?
How do you handle anxious or nervous dogs?
Do you have experience with my dog's breed?
What products do you use?
What's included in a full groom?
What are your prices and what's included?
How long does grooming typically take?
What's your cancellation policy?
What happens if there's a medical emergency?
Can you provide references from other clients?
How much should dog grooming cost in the UK?
Expect to pay £25-£100 depending on your dog's breed, size, and coat type. Small, short-haired breeds typically cost £25-£40, while large breeds with complex coats (like Poodles or Old English Sheepdogs) can cost £70-£100 or more.
Warning: Suspiciously cheap prices (significantly below £25) often indicate corners being cut—rushed appointments, cheap products, unqualified staff, or poor equipment. For detailed pricing, see our comprehensive UK grooming costs guide.
What are red flags when choosing a dog groomer?
Major red flags to avoid:
Won't show you their workspace - Hiding dirty, chaotic, or unsafe conditions
No insurance or qualifications - Unprotected if something goes wrong
Offers anaesthesia-free dentals - Dangerous and ineffective
Gives medical advice - Only vets should diagnose or treat conditions
Forces scared or distressed dogs - Prioritizes speed over welfare
Rock-bottom pricing - Usually means rushed work or cheap products
No clear cancellation policy - Unfair terms or hidden charges
CPD-Accredited Canine First Aid Courses. First Aid for Dogs UK. Professional first aid training for dog groomers and pet professionals. Available at: https://firstaidfordogs.co.uk/ (Accessed: January 2026)
British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA). Professional grooming standards and City & Guilds qualifications. Available at: https://www.mybiga.org/ (Accessed: January 2026)
