Category: Pet Business

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date.

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Professional Dog Grooming Techniques For Beginners

29 March 2023

•

6 mins read

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My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

If you’re evaluating dog grooming as a potential career move, then it’s likely that you’ve already got some experience in the basics of canine care, whether it’s for your own pet or those of friends and relatives.

While this natural experience gives you a starting point to work from, offering dog grooming services professionally requires knowledge of more advanced dog grooming techniques, many of which you can learn on specialist courses. Owners that are paying you good money will expect a high-quality, comprehensive service, with no areas left out and with a clear benefit to the dog’s appearance, health and happiness.

This guide covers all the key facts around professional dog grooming techniques, including all the most important areas of a dog and how to deal with them in turn.

Bathing

Some dogs like being bathed a lot more than others. Equally, some dogs need regular bathing much more than others, depending on the type of fur or hair that they have, and whether they’ve been anywhere particularly muddy or dirty. Nonetheless, it’s a basic part of the grooming service that most owners will expect.

The best way to approach bathing is to make the experience as relaxing for the dog as possible, with the right water temperature and the removal of any noises or distractions that might make the dog agitated.

Nail trimming

This can be a particularly tricky area for beginners to get right because dogs tend to move around, meaning you’re often aiming at a moving target. However, it’s an important thing to get right so that a dog’s hygiene can be maintained, and so they don’t scratch people or objects too sharply.

Coat clipping

Getting coat clipping right is absolutely crucial. If you don’t take off enough fur (or take it off in the wrong places) then you’ll end up with a messy-looking dog and an unhappy owner. Take off too much, or use the clippers carelessly, and the dog can easily get hurt.

A few simple practices can reduce the risk in this area. Bathing beforehand gives the dog damp fur that’s easier to cut, and gently talking to the dog can help keep it calm. Take particular care around the face and ears, and consider buying low-noise clippers as some dogs get agitated by the sound of them.

Brushing and combing

Not every dog will need its hair brushing: those which have particularly short hair pretty much take care of themselves. But in most cases, brushing out dirt and knots is a key part of keeping dogs healthy. This should be done gently, and with the help of some scissors to cut out any problem areas that brushing can’t solve. Long-haired dogs may need brushing as much as once a week, whereas dogs with shorter, denser hair will need brushing less often.

Ears, teeth and eyes

These three areas are all particularly sensitive parts of a dog, and so have to be treated with the utmost care. Just like you might give tear-less shampoo to a child, the same applies to dogs, so that their eyes don’t become irritated. Brushing teeth should be done gently and slowly, so that its gums aren’t damaged and so it doesn’t feel uncomfortable with the process. And you should also keep an eye out for ear wax, which can especially build up in dogs with droopy ears.

Equipment

It’s important not to cut corners on the equipment you use to groom dogs – better kit makes your job easier, can deliver better results, and can convince owners that it’s a job that you take seriously. Make sure that any sharp equipment like trimmers and clippers are cleaned, lubricated and resharpened regularly, for reasons of hygiene and performance. And don’t underestimate the value of keeping an area clean and tidy, and repreparing the grooming station between each dog.

Overall experience

If you’re going to attract repeat custom and groom the same dogs on a regular basis, then it’s vital that the dog feels comfortable with the whole experience. This means creating a relaxing environment that the dog won’t feel worried about entering, and taking care with each grooming session so that the dog learns that it’s a place they will enjoy being in. Achieving this will make the dog far more receptive to professional dog grooming techniques in the longer term.

Get dog grooming insurance with Protectivity

If you’re a beginner and still picking up professional dog grooming techniques, then it’s natural that you’re going to make some mistakes along the way. However, in the business world, mistakes can often lead to financial consequences, and so it’s vital you take steps to protect yourself from any financial loss.

It’s for this reason that we at Protectivity provide comprehensive dog grooming insurance, supporting newcomers and experienced groomers alike. Our cover includes Public Liability Insurance in case of injury or property damage; up to £100,000 of Care, Custody and Control cover in case of illness or injury to a dog, and up to £30,000 of cover for your specialist grooming equipment. That way, you can have the confidence that you can build your dog grooming career without an unfortunate incident leaving you out of pocket.

Find out more on our dog grooming insurance options, including our competitive rates and flexible payment plans, here.

Get Dog Grooming Insurance from Protectivity

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5 of the Best Pet Business Ideas to Start from Home

24 February 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Working from home, working for yourself and working with pets are all dreams for many of us. But, what if we told you that you could easily combine all three of these dreams?

By starting an at-home pet business, you can achieve all your life-long goals. But which pet business ideas are viable at the moment and which can you actually start from home? Here, we explain everything you need to know.

5 of the best pet business ideas

Selecting the right business idea can be difficult; particularly if you’ve never started a business before. To help you, here we’ve detailed five of the best pet business ideas you can start from home.

1) Dog walking

Dog walking is the perfect at-home pet business. You don’t need set qualifications to take on this new role and there are very few associated overheads.

Now life has returned to normal after the pandemic, many people need help walking their four-legged friend on days when they’re in the office. This is exactly where you come in.

As a professional dog walker, you’ll be responsible for arranging the best days and times to walk your clients’ dogs, organising walks where the dogs can get enough exercise, and ensuring all the dogs get enough socialisation. You can work from home and set a schedule that suits you.

2) Pet sitting

Pet sitting is another pet business idea that you can start from home. One of the great things about pet sitting is that the services you offer can be as narrow or as flexible as you like. For example, you could only board dogs at your own home on weekends, or you could relocate to a client’s home for a week so the pet can stay in their own surroundings.

Pet sitting is often viewed as a side hustle and many pet sitters only operate on weekends for this reason. But, as a general rule, the more options you can offer pet owners, the more bookings you’ll receive.

3) Pet photography

If you love taking photos and standing behind the camera, then why not start your own pet portrait business? Pets are important family members, and today many people use professional pet portraits for home decorations and for Christmas cards.

On top of this, many businesses also seek out professional pet photographers when they’re creating new marketing materials. Similarly, animal rehoming centres also enlist the help of pet photographers to help increase the chance of adoption.

Demand for pet photographers is high. So, if you have a spare space in the home you can convert into a photography studio, then this may be the right pet business idea for you.

4) Pet training

If you’re patient, have good communication skills and possess a way with animals, then starting your own dog training business could be the most rewarding option out there for you.

While people purchasing puppies often require help with basic obedience, it’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks. For this reason, many pet training professionals also offer courses to tackle behavioural issues or skills courses that keep active dogs occupied. No matter what type of training you’d like to deliver and who you’d like to help, you can create training courses that suit your skills and expertise. Plus, if you have the space, you can run your new business from home. Alternatively, you can go to a client’s house and deliver a one-on-one session.

5) Pet grooming

Professional groomers help keep pets looking their absolute best. To start your pet grooming business, you’ll need a bit of space. Something like a garage or a small room downstairs in the home is perfect.

As a pet groomer, you’ll be responsible for everything from giving baths to cutting nails and doing haircuts. So, you’ll need access to running water and electricity in your workspace.

Pet grooming can be lucrative; particularly if you become an expert at treating skin conditions or de-matting fur. Thankfully, apprenticeships and college courses are both available to help you train for a pet grooming qualification. So are specialist courses that are run by private organisations. These courses can be completed in as little as a month, so your at-home pet grooming business can start in next to no time.

Things to consider when starting a business

At this stage of the process, you have your pet business idea. But, what else do you need to know and consider? Let’s take a look…

Business insurance

Before you run with any of the above pet business ideas and turn your dreams into reality, you first need to make sure you have the correct Pet Business Insurance in place. This way, you’re covered in case something goes wrong.

Our Pet Business Insurance policy is perfect for the job. This is because it provides cover for up to 14 different pet business activities at no extra cost. Public Liability is included as standard, and you receive a host of other benefits, such as Care, Custody and Control cover.

With a Pet Business Insurance policy from Protectivity, you’ll receive all the following benefits as standard:

Public Liability: You can choose to include between £1 million and £10 million worth of cover to protect your business against claims arising from property damage or injury to a third party.
Care, Custody and Control: Up to £100,000 worth of cover is provided (up to £25,000 per animal) in the instance of accidental loss, injury, illness or death of an animal while in your care.
Non-Negligent Cover: Similar to the Care, Custody and Control benefit, you are also covered for accidental loss, injury, illness or death to an animal in your care during the course of service delivery through no fault of your business.
Key Cover: You are covered up to £10,000 for new keys and locks, as well as the cost of re-setting intruder alarms and associated call-out costs.
Equipment Cover: As standard, we provide £250 worth of cover for your equipment against theft, loss and accidental damage. You can increase the protection of your items up to the value of £30,000.
Close Family Extension: Your close family members are included under your policy as standard. This means that, if you employ your husband, wife, son, daughter or any other close family, you do not need to take out Employers’ Liability

Tax

Once you have sorted your insurance and your business structure, you then need to consider the tax implications of starting a new business. This is particularly important if you’ve never started a business before, or if you’re running your pet business as a side hustle.

If you’re not a tax expert, then we recommend speaking to an accountant about the tax implications of starting a new business. They will provide you with tailored advice based on your employment situation. They will also inform you of any reporting requirements.

Business structure

Leading on from the above, before you register and start your business, you must also think about how you will structure the business. For example, will you be a sole trader, work in a partnership with someone else, form a limited liability partnership or form a limited company?

There are pros and cons to each of these approaches and the right structure for you will depend on factors such as:

The type of business you’re creating
Who you’re going into business with (if anyone)
Your overheads, costs and expenses
Your personal liability for the business
Your expected profits

Remember, the structure you choose will have significant implications on the amount of tax you pay, the degree of your personal liability, the amount of administrative work involved and your ability to raise finance. As a result, you should speak to a qualified accountant before you make a decision and ensure you understand the implications and responsibilities of each structure.

Get your Pet Business Insurance

Planning on starting your new pet business? Get a quote for Pet Business Insurance today and ensure you’re fully protected.

Our Pet Business Insurance covers 14 different activities under the same policy. It also covers liability, vets bills and equipment. Getting a quote only takes a couple of minutes and we can arrange instant cover. So, get started online today.

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11:13:15 GMT • 14 November 2024

Best Presents & Gift Ideas for Dog Walkers

24 February 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Thinking of buying a gift for your dog walker? Before you panic, check out our guide and buy your dog walker a gift and show your appreciation for all their hard work. But what exactly should you buy? Here, we’ve created a roundup of the best presents for dog walkers, including an option for every budget.

Gifts that every dog walker needs

Whether you use your dog walker one day a week or your furry friend is lucky enough to spend time with them every day, your dog walker deserves the best treat. Rather than just buying a box of chocolates or something generic, you should instead buy something they need or something that will help them look after your pup. With this in mind, here are the top presents for dog walkers this year:

Portable neck fan

Remember that summer heatwave when the temperature was regularly topping 30 degrees? Working in an air-conditioned office was hard enough, so imagine how your dog walker felt.

To help them next year, consider buying a portable neck fan they can take with them on those hot summer walks.

Walking shoes or trainers

Dog walkers are continually pounding the pavements. As a result, they can work their way through trainers and boots quickly. If you notice your dog walker’s shoes are a little worse for wear, treat them to some specialist walking shoes or trainers. Their feet will thank you.

Eco-conscious poop bags

The poop bag is a staple for any busy dog walker. If your canine carer walks up to six dogs a day, then they could go through 30-50 poop bags a week – that’s a lot of plastic.

To help them reduce their impact on the planet, consider purchasing some eco-conscious poop bags. These break down far more quickly than regular plastic poop bags and have a much lower impact on the planet. With these, your dog walker can feel a lot better about what is probably the worst part of their job.

Appointment book and planner

Good dog walkers get booked up quickly. If your dog walker is scrambling around for appointment cards or uses their phone to track where they need to be and when, then consider buying them an appointment book and planner so they can improve their organisation.

Wireless earbuds

Dog walkers are constantly on the move. To help them answer calls, listen to music or engage with a podcast all while providing the best possible care for your pup, consider buying your dog walker some wireless earbuds.

Fitness tracker

When you’re pounding the pavements all day, you quickly rack up a lot of steps. If you buy your dog walker a fitness tracker, they’ll be able to see exactly how hard they’re working.

Flasks

Winter walks can be incredibly cold; especially if you’re out multiple times a day. To help your dog walker keep warm in the winter winds, consider buying them a flask. To make the gift extra special, you could even get it personalised or engraved with your dog’s name.

Scented candles

If your dog walker also offers home boarding, then they’ll likely struggle to keep that famous ‘dog smell’ out of their home. So, consider buying some scented candles that can help them freshen up their home and relax after a tough day of walks.

Charity donations

Dog walkers love pets and are charitable people. If your dog walker is someone who has everything, then consider making a charity donation in their name. A donation to a pet charity such as the Dogs Trust is one of the best presents for dog walkers imaginable. This is because it shows how much both you and they care about pooches.

Collapsible dog bowls

Your dog walker can take collapsible dog bowls on each walk and ensure your pup remains hydrated at all times. Pet walkers always carry emergency supplies in case your dog gets tired while exercising. Collapsible bowls can make their load light and compact.

Keyrings

If you give your dog walker a key to your home, then consider giving them the gift of a personalised key ring. Not only will this help your dog walker identify which key is right for your home, but it will also add a special and personalised touch to their interactions with you.

Dog-themed bracelets

Your four-legged friend will likely hold a special place in the heart of your dog walker. To ensure their bond is always close, buy your dog walker a special dog-themed bracelet that is personalised with your pet’s name.

Pet blankets

Whether they’re walking dogs that are cold, muddy or wet, dog walkers simply cannot have enough pet blankets. Buying some extra this Christmas will help them through the cold winter months and beyond. They’ll also help keep your pet warm and dry.

Bespoke drawing or artwork

Artwork featuring your pet and your dog walker is the perfect gift. Whether you choose a small framed photo or a larger piece that’s commissioned by an artist, your artwork is sure to take pride of place in their home or office.

Dog treats

Finally, if your dog walker has everything on our list, then consider buying some dog treats. Buy your pup’s favourite and they can share them with their furry friends on their next adventure with the dog walker.

Why you should use an insured dog walker

Before you trust your four-legged friend with a dog walker, you must check they are insured. This is because, if your dog walker has insurance in place, you’ll know that your furry friend is covered if something goes wrong, such as if your dog is injured or goes missing.

Not only does Dog Walking Insurance provide you with peace of mind, it also provides your dog walker with a number of benefits. Comprehensive Dog Walking Insurance policies like ours include a number of key benefits, such as:

Care, Custody and Control Cover
Public Liability Cover
Non-Negligent Cover
Equipment Cover
Loss of Keys Cover
Employers’ Liability Cover

If something goes wrong and they have the right cover, they could save thousands of pounds.

What’s included in Dog Walking Insurance?

Our Dog Walking Insurance includes Public Liability for dog walking plus cover for 13 other pet care activities, including pet sitting, home boarding and pet grooming.

With a Dog Walking Insurance policy from Protectivity, you’ll receive all the following benefits as standard:

Public Liability: You can choose to include between £1 million and £10 million worth of cover to protect your business against claims arising from property damage or injury to a third party.
Care, Custody and Control: Up to £100,000 worth of cover is provided (up to £25,000 per animal) in the instance of accidental loss, injury, illness or death of an animal while in your care.
Non-Negligent Cover: Similar to the Care, Custody and Control benefit, you are also covered for accidental loss, injury, illness or death to an animal in your care during the course of service delivery through no fault of your business.
Key Cover: You are covered up to £10,000 for new keys and locks, as well as the cost of re-setting intruder alarms and associated call-out costs.
Equipment Cover: As standard, we provide £250 worth of cover for your equipment against theft, loss and accidental damage. You can increase the protection of your items up to the value of £30,000.
Close Family Extension: Your close family members are included under your policy as standard. This means that, if you employ your husband, wife, son, daughter or any other close family, you do not need to take out Employers’ Liability

Get a quote for Dog Walking Insurance

Our Dog Walking Insurance is available from £5.41 per month. It covers 14 different pet care activities and provides public liability, vet bills cover and more. To see exactly how much our Dog Walking Insurance will cost you, get a quote today. We can provide you with a tailored quote in only a couple of minutes.

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Which are the Best Gadgets for Dog Walkers?

27 January 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Get dog walking insurance from Protectivity

Dog walking seems like such a simple thing to do: grab a lead, attach it to the dog, work out your route and away you go. But when you’re running a professional dog walking business, things aren’t necessarily quite that simple.

First of all, you’re likely to be walking several dogs at the same time, all with their own characteristics and energy levels, giving you lots to manage and think about. Then you’ve got all the hazards around you to avoid: people, bikes, traffic and other dogs, to name just a few. And on top of that, then there’s the weather to consider, and how your dogs might be affected if it’s too hot or too wet, for example.

All this means that owning a few nifty bits of kit can make the whole act of professional dog walking much easier for you, and potentially much more enjoyable for the dogs, too. In this blog, we’ve picked out some of the best gadgets for dog walkers.

Our choice of the best gadgets for dog walkers

There’s a huge marketplace for dog-related gadgets nowadays, but not all of them serve the needs of those walking multiple dogs simultaneously. With that specific consideration in mind, here are some of our favourites:

Pet Room Pouch Bag

There’s seemingly a million and one things that a dog walker has to carry with them: poop bags, treats, water bowls, phone, wallet/purse, keys, and so on. This can lead to some very full pockets, or the need to wear a big jacket in summer, which is where a handy pouch bag comes in handy. It’s full of space for treats and valuables, can be slung over your shoulder to free up your arms for lead control, and can even have things like water bowls clipped to the outside.

Portable Poop-Scoop

Clearing up dog mess isn’t pleasant, but it’s a necessary evil of the job when you’re a dog walker, so anything you can use to make it a bit more palatable is a worthwhile investment. A portable poop-scoop looks just like a giant Bulldog clip and works a treat: it even has an expandable chamber so it can handle even the biggest piles that the dogs you walk leave behind. The ability to clip it to a belt (or the pouch bag mentioned above) makes it especially user-friendly, too.

Biodegradable Poop Bags

No dog walker ever leaves the house without a copious supply of poop bags in their pockets, but the plastic nature of them isn’t especially kind to the environment. Instead, it’s worth looking at biodegradable poop bags made with a blend of corn starch that will eventually degrade over time. And don’t worry about leaks: they’re made from an especially thick material.

Car Seat Covers

If you’re collecting dogs from their owners, or taking them out for a walk in the countryside, then you may have to transport them in your car. Understandable, you won’t want to get your seats dirty, which is where you can benefit from car seat covers specifically designed to carry dogs. Not only do they protect your upholstery, but they can also come in the form of a basket that can give smaller dogs stability when they’re in the car.

Portable Dog Washer

If you do venture into the country, then it’s easy for dogs to get wet and muddy. However, a portable dog washer can solve the problem of getting everything dirty, or of you returning a dog to an owner much muckier than it was when it left. All you need to do is fill it with water, use the hand pump to build pressure (no electricity required) and use the brush attachment to clean the dog. It’s small enough to fit in the boot of your car, too.

Get Dog Walking Insurance with Protectivity

As useful as all these gadgets can be for dog walkers, you never know what might happen when you’re out on a walk. Whether it’s dogs jumping out in traffic, attacking other dogs, or their leads tripping people up, there are many things that can happen that could lead to a claim being made against you.

That’s why Protectivity provides comprehensive insurance specially tailored for the needs of professional dog walkers. With our competitively priced policies, you’ll be covered for injuries, accident damage, public liability, vet bills, and ‘Care, Custody and Control’, so you can grow your business with confidence. Find out more on our dog walking insurance policies here.

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What Is Hand Stripping In Dog Grooming?

19 January 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Every breed of dog is different, and it’s fair to say that some of our furry friends are furrier than others. Because of that, certain breeds need regular and careful attention from professional dog groomers, which is why dog grooming has risen in popularity as a career option of late.

One vital part of any top dog groomer’s repertoire is hand stripping. This is the act of using hands to take out any loose fur and coat coloration on the dog. It often accumulates around the face, chest and legs in particular, and is an important job to keep dogs cool, clean, healthy and stylish.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at why hand stripping is so important, the benefits and drawbacks of doing so, and the particular breeds that need it most often.

Which dog breeds need hand stripping?

Generally speaking, it’s dogs that have wiry coats that need hand stripping the most, so that their fur (and therefore skin) doesn’t get clogged up with dirt. It can also be especially helpful in summer as it ensures that the dog doesn’t end up with an overly thick coat which leads them to overheat on particularly warm days.

The following breeds are some (but by no means all) of the breeds for which hand stripping is recommended: Airedales, Border Terrier, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Dobermans, German Shepherds, Irish Wolfhounds, Poodles, Schnauzers, Scottish Terriers, and West Highland Terriers.

Why should you hand strip instead of clipping?

The reason hand stripping can be so beneficial compared to clipping is that it removes the entire hair including the root, rather than just trimming it back. Wire hair on dogs generally only lives from around six months, after which it dies off, so removing these dead hairs entirely frees up space for new, healthy coat to grow in its place.

As they die off, they become weak and loose enough that it’s easy and painless for dog groomers to remove them with their bare hands. Alternatively, some groomers prefer to use a serrated stripping knife to make the job a little easier, but this comes down to personal preference.

The pros of hand stripping

There are a number of reasons why hand stripping is favoured, by groomers, dogs and owners alike. For starters, it’s generally a less stressful process compared to clipping, as it doesn’t cause any anxiety for the dog in terms of feeling or noise. A more relaxed dog makes for a far easier and more enjoyable experience all round, and reduces the risk of groomers being bitten. Indeed, it’s not uncommon for some dogs to fall asleep while they’re being hand-stripped.

Most of the time, hand stripping generates better results in overall grooming as it brings healthy coat to the fore all across the body of the dog. And as mentioned earlier, taking away old, dirty fur can reduce health risks to the dog, as a build-up of dirt can easily lead to flea bites, allergies or skin irritations.

The cons of hand stripping

There are, however, also some risks relating to hand stripping. While it can be quicker than clipping, in some cases it can actually take longer, especially for dogs that need particular attention in certain areas. For dog groomers, this can impact profitability if selling appointments at a fixed rate.

Dogs also have to be handled with care during the process, especially those who have sensitive skin. If hair is removed too roughly, then skin can be irritated and the process can become painful for the dog. If the tissue underneath the skin is damaged, this can even lead to infections and bleeding for the dog.

Finally, dogs that are hand stripped generally need it to take place on a regular basis – potentially as often as once every few weeks. This can be expensive for some owners if using a dog groomer rather than doing it themselves, so offering a discounted rate for multiple appointments can help groomers generate repeat business.

Useful hints and tips

If you’re still getting up to speed with hand stripping within your dog grooming business, then there are several tips that can make the job easier, quicker, safer, and kinder for the dog:

Don’t rush the job for the sake of fitting it into a certain amount of time. If the dog looks uncomfortable or agitated, stop for a minute or two before carrying on more gently
For particularly wiry dog fur, a soft-bristled brush can often be highly effective in removing large quantities of hair without causing the dog any pain
Consider using petroleum jelly to soothe any areas of skin that you feel might get irritated
Use gloves in order to keep your hands clean
Apply some insecticide at the end of the process to ensure that fleas and ticks don’t attack the dog

Get dog grooming insurance with Protectivity

However, you groom a dog, there’s always the risk that something can go wrong, and that’s why having the best possible dog grooming insurance in place is vital.

Taking out Protectivity’s policy for dog grooming insurance can demonstrate to owners that you care just as much about the wellbeing of their pet as they do. Incorporating cover for public liability, specialist equipment, and Care, Custody and Control, it ensures you won’t be out of pocket if the unforeseen occurs.

Find out more on all of our competitively-priced dog grooming insurance options here.

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Dog Grooming Qualifications to Become a Dog Groomer

6 January 2023

•

7 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

If you’re a dog lover who would love nothing more than to spend each day taking care of precious pooches, dog grooming could be a great career option for you.

Dog grooming is a rewarding job where no two days are the same. And while there isn’t a requirement to become a dog groomer, attaining some qualifications for dog grooming will give you experience and help you to stand out from the crowd.

There are several routes you can take to become a dog groomer. Perhaps you’ll take a college course, or undergo an apprenticeship. Maybe you’ll choose to complete specialist courses run by private training organisations such as City & Guilds.

Here, we cover some of the qualifications you could complete to become a dog groomer, and the journey you could take to begin your career.

Recognised dog grooming qualifications

There’s no set roadmap to becoming a dog groomer but completing a qualification in dog grooming would be advantageous. Being trained professionally tells your future clients they can trust you with their precious pups and helps you to stand out against the competition.

Here are some dog grooming qualifications to consider:

Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants

Ideal for school leavers or those looking for a career change, the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants is for those new to the industry who want to train as a dog groomer. You don’t need any previous experience or qualifications to study for this certificate.

The Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants covers:

Health and safety
How to handle dogs
Bathing and drying
Dog breeds and their temperaments
Selecting the correct shampoo and equipment
Basic clipping and trimming techniques

You’ll be assessed with weekly workbooks, assessments on a variety of dogs, and a 60 question end of course exam. Once you’ve completed the course, you will receive a City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants. You can then choose to go on to study a Level 3 qualification if you want to develop your skills further.

Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming

The Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming expands on the knowledge you’ve gained during the Level 2, allowing you to further your skills and abilities to work as a professional dog groomer.

Once completed, you will feel confident in handling and grooming a range of dog breeds, ages and temperaments. You’ll know how to minimise stress, undertake health checks, and be able to adjust grooming requirements accordingly.

To be awarded this certification, you’ll need to complete a practical demonstration of what you’ve learnt or an assignment, as well as a written test to prove your capabilities.

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming

Once you’ve completed the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants, you can progress your skills further by studying for the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming.

During the course, you’ll learn all of the practical skills needed to professionally style dogs with different types of coat. You’ll also receive the training you need to be prepared to work as a dog groomer in line with legislation and welfare requirements.

Once you’ve completed the diploma, you could choose to work for a business, or as a self-employed dog groomer.

How long does it take to become a dog groomer?

It’s easy for those who aren’t in the industry to assume that dog grooming only involves brushing dogs. But becoming a professional dog groomer takes time and involves learning several areas of canine care. If you’re considering a career in dog grooming, you may be wondering how long it takes to become qualified.

How long it takes to become a dog groomer depends on the route you choose. There aren’t mandatory qualifications or requirements to become a dog groomer. Instead, the choice is yours if you’d prefer to gain hands-on experience in a salon shadowing professionals, or study for a qualification to learn the tricks of the trade.

If you choose to study for a certificate or diploma in dog grooming, it can take weeks or months to complete depending on the course. You may decide to learn the ropes with an apprenticeship, often offered by both large pet retail and grooming chains and small independents. In your apprenticeship, you’ll work with a professional dog groomer who will walk you through every step of the grooming process. An apprenticeship will usually take up to 18 months to complete.

Useful training resources for upcoming dog groomers

With a bit of research, you can find some useful training resources to help you on your journey to becoming a dog groomer, all without breaking the bank. Reed Courses, for example, have a list of several dog grooming courses you can look into to get you started.

Things to consider before becoming a qualified dog groomer

Not sure if dog grooming is the right career path for you? Here are some factors to consider to help you decide if pampering pooches is the best option for your future:

Experience: While not mandatory to become a dog groomer, having qualifications under your belt gives you the knowledge and confidence to apply for dog grooming jobs. But once you’ve completed your qualification, this doesn’t mean you’ll stop learning. You’ll continue to grow as a professional dog groomer long after you’ve qualified. The more clients you have, the more your confidence will improve.
Equipment is important: While technique is important, so is having great quality tools. Quality equipment can help you to deliver results that will keep clients happy. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive equipment on the market, you’ll need to invest in yourself. Clippers, shampoos, conditioners, shears and brushes can add up quickly, so make sure to budget for these.
Different coats have different needs: Dog coats vary greatly – from short coats to long. Dogs’ fur is important to regulate their temperature and protect their skin. With this in mind, each fur type needs to be groomed in a certain way. Understanding the differences in coats and requirements is essential for a dog groomer.
Accidents can happen: Whether you’re new to the dog grooming world, or have years of experience under your belt, accidents can happen. You might accidentally clip a dog’s skin, or get water in their ears and potentially cause an infection. It’s important to be honest with the client if this happens and let them know immediately. The best way to avoid this is to take your time. And if an accident does occur, make sure to act responsibly and professionally.

Get your dog grooming business insurance with Protectivity

Whether you run a dog grooming salon or work as a mobile dog groomer, having Dog Grooming Insurance in place can give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your work to the fullest. Your policy will include Public Liability Insurance, as well as Care, Custody and Control cover should accidental injury, illness or loss of an animal under your care occur.

No matter what kind of pet business you have, we’ve got you covered. We offer dog walking insurance, cover for pet sitters, groomers and more. Having quality, affordable cover in place can give you the reassurance that should the worst happen, you’ll have support there to put wrong to right. Get a quote today.

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12:04:34 GMT • 14 November 2024

3 of the Best Dog Grooming Training Courses for Beginners

By Steffi Cavaliere

26 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

If you’re a dog lover, a career in dog grooming sounds like the dream, right? Not only will you be able to spend time with pooches of all shapes and sizes, but you’ll also get the satisfaction of making them look their very best.

While mandatory qualifications aren’t needed to become a dog groomer, completing a dog grooming course will help you stand out from the crowd. Here, we cover the best courses for beginners to learn the tricks of the trade and leave you with a certificate or diploma under your belt to impress potential clients.

Dog grooming training providers

Where you choose to complete your training is entirely up to you. You can obtain your dog grooming qualification from a college, a specialist training provider, or through City & Guilds.

City & Guilds

City & Guilds provide services to training providers, employers, and trainees across a variety of sectors, for people to progress in their careers and have the skills to fulfil their duties in the workplace. Their qualifications and apprenticeships are highly regarded by employers across the world. You can study both Level 2 and Level 3 dog grooming training with City & Guilds.

Colleges

Several colleges across the UK offer dog grooming courses suitable for beginners, but you may need to attend a college that specialises in agriculture and animal welfare. Colleges such as Moulton College in Northamptonshire and Capel Manor College in London offer courses to help you on your journey to becoming a professional dog groomer.

Specialist dog grooming training providers

Alternatively, you can undergo dog grooming training through a specialist provider. Providers like Four Paws Groom School, located in Cheshire, Kent and Herefordshire, offer courses to suit every level of experience. You can learn how to groom your own dog in one day or complete a 30-day iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in dog grooming.

Dog grooming qualifications and training courses

When it comes to pampering pooches, you’ll want to make sure you do the best job possible. While having a dog grooming qualification isn’t essential to kickstarting your dog grooming career, it can help you promote your service and could make the difference in someone trusting you with their dog or going elsewhere. Here are some respected dog grooming qualifications and training courses for you to consider:

Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants

Looking for a course to introduce you to the art of dog grooming? A Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Artists is your go-to training course if you’re looking to work in the dog grooming industry. The course will be run by a City & Guilds qualified groomer/tutor.

To earn the qualification, you’ll need to complete several units, some of which are optional and some mandatory, including:

– Cleaning and bathing dogs

– Controlling and restraining animals

– Handling payments from clients

Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming

Once you’ve completed the Level 2 Certificate, you may want to further your training with the Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming. Once completed, you can progress in a career as a professional dog groomer.

The Level 3 certificate is suitable for those who have experience working in the industry or have completed a related qualification such as the Level 2 certificate.

To achieve this certification, you’ll do a practical demonstration of what you’ve learnt or an assignment, as well as a written test to prove your knowledge.

Achieving this qualification will show future employers or customers that you have all the technical skills and knowledge needed to practice dog grooming to a high standard. If you’re looking to stand out against the crowd of dog groomers, having training under your belt is a great way to demonstrate your dedication to and passion for dog grooming.

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming

After completing the Level 2 Dog Grooming Assistant certification, you can progress your knowledge and skills further to become a professional dog groomer, by studying for the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming.

The diploma will provide you with the practical skills to professionally style dogs with all types of coats, as well as those who need adjustments to the grooming process due to health conditions. You’ll also receive all the training needed to ensure you’re fully prepared to work as a professional dog groomer, in line with legislation and welfare requirements.

If you’re looking for training that will give you the practical skills and knowledge needed to work as a professional dog groomer, completing the Level 3 diploma is a great option. Once completed, you could go on to work for a business, or as a self-employed dog groomer.

Costs of dog grooming training

How much your dog grooming training will cost will depend on the course you choose to study.

Absolutely Animals are pet grooming specialists based in London, they offer several types of dog grooming courses, including City & Guilds qualifications. They price the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants at £900, and the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming at £980.

Just4Paws offer an all-inclusive City & Guilds dog grooming course, with plenty of hands-on experience with a variety of dog breeds. Through this course, you’ll complete both the Level 2 and Level 3 City & Guilds qualifications, as well as a professional pet first aid course and salon training. This is a 30-day course, as well as a minimum of 150 hours of home study, priced at £5,650 part time with full time options also available.

How much these qualifications are will vary by salon and provider, so you may want to compare courses across different providers to get the best price.

Next steps after qualifying

With the right experience and qualifications, you could become a self-employed dog groomer and work from home or become a mobile dog groomer who visits owners’ homes. Alternatively, you could open your own salon or teach dog grooming classes. Being a dog groomer is a rewarding career where no two days are the same. If you’re an animal lover who is seeking a career that doesn’t feel like work, dog grooming could be the perfect choice for you.

Get your dog grooming insurance today from Protectivity

Are you a dog groomer who wants reassurance at work, should something go wrong? Perhaps you run your own dog grooming salon or operate on a mobile basis. Whatever your circumstances, having an affordable, quality Dog Grooming Insurance policy in place can give you the peace of mind that should disaster strike, you have the support you need to put things right. Your insurance policy will include a range of benefits such as Public Liability Insurance and cover for any specialist equipment you use at work. Get a quote today for dog grooming insurance and put your mind at ease.

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11:43:24 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Become a Dog Groomer?

By Steffi Cavaliere

21 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and for many people, there’s no lengths to which they won’t go to keep their treasured pooch fit, healthy and pampered.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that dog grooming is booming. All over the country, enterprising people are taking full advantage of the surge in demand for grooming and related activities. So, if you love dogs, you love taking care of them and you’re looking for a career opportunity, there’s never been a better time to become a skilled, trained groomer.

In this guide, we’ll look at all the key qualifications for dog grooming you can get, the most important skills you’ll need, salary expectations, and why you shouldn’t overlook dog grooming insurance.

What qualifications for dog grooming are required?

There is no official legal requirement to gain any dog grooming qualifications. However, that doesn’t mean to say that it can’t be extremely valuable to get them, as it makes it more likely that you can get a job with a dog grooming company or attract more customers if you decide to go down the self-employed route.

If looking at dog grooming courses for beginners, then expect to take between one and three months to get a recognised City & Guilds qualification, either at Level 2 or Level 3. There are many different courses available, and we recommend finding one that is fully accredited with the PIF (Pet Industry Federation). That will give you the best chance of getting the training you need.

For less formal support, training and education, it may also be worth exploring what the British Dog Groomers’ Association (also part of the PIF) has to offer.

How much money do dog groomers make?

If you’re just starting out in the dog grooming world, then you’ll most likely be employed as a junior or apprentice with an established business. According to the National Careers Service, dog groomers will typically start on relatively low wages, but can work their way up to around £20,000 per year in time.

Where you can start to earn a lot more money is when you have the experience and skills to branch out on your own and go self-employed. Your earnings will then be tied to how much you charge per hour, less tax and operating expenses. In the UK at present, typical rates for freelance dog groomers generally run at around £20-30 per hour, prices varying depending on location, the size and condition of each dog, and its general temperament. However, it’s entirely possible to earn substantially more than this: top-quality groomers are known to charge as much as £80 an hour.

You should also be aware that most owners take their dogs for grooming at evenings and weekends because they’re at work during the day, and so you should expect to work less sociable hours as a matter of routine.

What skills are needed for dog grooming?

Dog grooming is a very specific job that demands a certain level of skills. Most importantly, you need the right attitude: it can be a decidedly unglamorous job and not every day will be like Crufts.

Of course, pets will misbehave. You may well get bitten, and they may well go to the toilet on you, so you’ll need the right mentality to keep dogs calm and shrug off any incidents. You’ll also need to feel comfortable around other people’s pets, and comfortable communicating with demanding owners: sometimes it isn’t always the dogs that are highly strung…

If you’re self-employed, you’ll also have lots of responsibilities to consider from a business perspective, including understanding typical costs. For example, you’ll need to build a compelling website full of high-quality images and videos of your work and create a presence on social media so you become known in your area and develop a following. You’ll also have a number of administrative duties to fulfil, such as registering and self-assessing your tax to HMRC, organising your schedule, managing your finances and expenses, and arranging good-quality insurance cover.

Why is dog grooming insurance important?

If a dog owner comes to you and wants you to groom their dog, they will have the basic expectation that you will care for their dog as much as they do. This means behaving with the very highest standards of diligence and professionalism. However, no human being is perfect, and sometimes things can, and will, go wrong.

It’s in these situations that having professional dog grooming insurance in place is absolutely vital, especially one that is tailored to the specifics of your work. You should look for a comprehensive policy that brings together many different types of cover, including (but not necessarily limited to):

– Public Liability Insurance: if you accidentally injure someone or damage property in the course of your work, this cover takes care of any legal costs incurred if you find yourself in court as a result

– Care, Custody and Control: if an animal under your care is lost, becomes ill or is injured, this type of insurance covers any compensation that becomes due to the owner

– Specialist Equipment: your valuable equipment, from grooming tables to cutting kit, can all be covered in the event of loss, theft or damage. If you’re intending to operate as a mobile groomer, you should ensure your vehicle is adequately covered, too

Get dog grooming insurance with Protectivity

At Protectivity, we provide a variety of comprehensive packages for every type of dog groomer at every level of experience. Our pet business insurance includes public liability cover, protection for up to £30,000 of specialist equipment, and up to £100,000 of Care, Custody and Control cover, it can deliver reassurance and confidence for you and owners alike.

Take a closer look at all of our dog grooming insurance options here.

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11:42:52 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Market a Dog Walking Business

By Steffi Cavaliere

17 August 2022

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get dog walking insurance from Protectivity

Do you love dogs? Then a dog walking business could allow you to run a business doing something you truly love. As with any enterprise, success is likely to lie in its marketing. So, here’s a few tips and suggestions about how to market a dog walking business.

About Us

As with any other business, there are risks – in the case of dog walking, the main risks are that an animal in your care gets injured, lost, or even killed. You may also face claims from a member of the public, if a dog in your care injures them or their dog. You might even lose the keys to your clients house and need to get the locks changed as a result. Our specialist Dog Walking Insurance can safely cover each of these risks.

Publish your website

It’s practically impossible for any business to thrive without a website – so it’s well worth devoting the time and resources to building and publishing a website that best markets your dog walking business.

Invest in the software

Along with your website, remember that there is a wide range of software to assist in just about every aspect of running your business – and, in this case, software designed to capture and manage your bookings will prove a real boon.

For example, Pet Sitter Plus is an online scheduling and invoicing software system designed specifically for dog walking businesses. Time To Pet is another specifically designed software system for dog walkers (and pet sitters) including real-time updates and in-app messaging.

Make the most of social media

Your customers are almost certain to be using some of the many social media platforms – so why not join the conversation and seize the opportunity to market your dog walking business along the way?

When promoting your business, demonstrate your professionalism by making sure your customers know you are fully certified and insured. Engage with posts to show that you are knowledgeable and helpful – and always keep it professional.

Blog it

Combine your following on social media with a blog on your website. A focused and carefully crafted blog can play a crucial role in marketing your business – so spend the time, imagination, and creativity writing an engaging and regular blog.

Use your blog to answer your customers’ questions – or those you wish they’d asked – and to emphasise the benefits and advantages of the dog walking services you offer.

Post reviews (get the reviewer’s permission first) and photos (again, get permission from the dog’s owner to use any images).

Promotional materials

Today, it might be tempting to concentrate so much on electronic media that you overlook good old-fashioned marketing through hard copies of marketing and promotional materials – such as leaflets, flyers, and business cards.

You don’t need to stop there but could also give promotional handouts such as toys for prospective customers’ dogs.

Claim your business page

Many of your prospective customers will be turning to online listings from local businesses to find dog walking services in your area. So, make sure you’re included on as many of those listings sites as possible – many of them will offer a free listing for your business page, so claim it.

Partnerships

Keep a keen eye open for any opportunity to partner with existing businesses and organisations in your area. These might include contacts with your local animal shelter, pet shops, dog food and accessories suppliers, or organisations offering pet therapy to local care homes, hospitals, and hospices.

Summary

Your start-up costs for a dog walking business are likely to be minimal. (You may wish to read our How to start a dog walking business blog for more information). However, you can splash out on marketing the enterprise so that you are making the most of your presence in the market, capturing vital clientele, and growing your business to that all-important profitable bottom line.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

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