07/13/2026
Over the last couple of months, I’ve welcomed quite a few new clients who came to me after unfortunate experiences elsewhere. Because of that, I felt it was time to make my usual twice-a-year post.
One of the biggest things I’ve always tried to educate pet owners about is this:
The grooming industry is NOT regulated.
There is no universal licensing requirement or governing body that determines who can call themselves a dog groomer. Becoming a groomer is largely self-directed, which means it’s up to each individual to decide whether this is simply a job… or a career they’re committed to mastering.
Every day, new grooming salons seem to pop up. Most groomers have probably heard someone say, “Wow, you charge $XX for a dog that small? I should switch careers.”
What many people don’t see is everything that goes into earning those prices when you’re doing things the right way.
For me personally, it took six years of grooming under multiple mentors, attending seminars every year, taking private classes, earning certifications, and constantly continuing my education before I felt confident enough to open my own salon and responsibly care for my clients. And heck, I still have so much to learn.
Is that everyone’s path? Of course not.
But that’s what I felt was necessary before taking on the responsibility.
People often think grooming is “just a haircut” or “just a bath.”
It isn’t.
Every appointment requires knowledge, patience, and attention to detail because mistakes can have real consequences.
Something as simple as using a comb at the wrong angle near delicate skin can cause a serious cut.
Improper brushing technique can lead to painful brush burn.
Using a high-velocity dryer incorrectly can cause discomfort or burns.
Choosing the wrong blade or clip for the wrong coat type can damage the coat and affect healthy regrowth.
Even something as basic as improperly diluted shampoo can contribute to skin irritation and other dermatological issues.
One concern I’ve noticed more frequently lately is the trend of rushed apprenticeships.
Teaching someone to groom safely isn’t just about showing them how to hold clippers. It means taking the time to thoroughly teach bathing techniques, drying methods, brushing, coat preparation, tool maintenance, clipper and blade safety, canine anatomy, behavior and body language, proper handling and restraint, skin and coat health, sanitation, and knowing when to stop or ask for help.
These are skills that simply cannot be rushed.
An apprentice who is pushed onto dogs before they’re truly ready increases the risk of accidents—whether that’s a cut, skin irritation, unnecessary stress, fear surrounding grooming, or even serious injury.
I understand that lengthy apprenticeships aren’t the most profitable approach. Training someone well takes time, patience, and resources.
But every dog that walks through our doors deserves someone who is fully prepared to care for them, not someone who is still learning at their expense.
Whether you’re a groomer, salon owner, or mentor, we have a responsibility to our clients—both human and canine—to prioritize education over speed and quality over quantity.
At the end of the day, every dog deserves to leave the salon not only looking their best, but feeling safe, comfortable, and cared for. That’s what professional grooming should always be about.
The moment you decide there’s nothing left to learn is the moment you’ve stopped growing.
No groomer will ever know everything, and that’s okay. The best groomers never stop learning. They seek out education, ask questions, refine their skills, and remain humble enough to know there’s always something new to improve on.
Because when you’re responsible for the health, safety, and trust of someone’s pet, continuing your education isn’t optional, it’s part of being a professional.
The moment you decide there’s nothing left to learn, you’ve already failed.
