Table of contents
Table of contents
Being on top of the latest business legislation is necessary in any industry, but is dog grooming regulated in the UK? Looking after animals comes with a number of responsibilities from both an expectation from clients and a more legal standpoint, caring for an animal.
When setting up a dog grooming business there are a number of important laws and regulations that are worth being aware of to ensure you’re following best practices and doing things by the book, should you need to make an insurance claim or account for specific activities.
UK Laws for Dog Groomers

Animal Welfare Legislation
The Animal Welfare Act in England and Wales ensures the welfare of animals under human care or supervision. As a dog groomer, you’ll be responsible for the well-being of the animals in your care. Negligence or cruelty can lead to criminal prosecution. Taking steps to minimize risks, such as using equipment correctly and ensuring the safety of the animals during grooming seems obvious.
5 Welfare Needs
Health
Ensuring protection from pain, injury, suffering, and disease. If an animal becomes ill or injured, it should receive appropriate treatment.
Behaviour
Allowing animals to behave naturally for their species. This includes activities like playing, running, digging, jumping, and flying.
Companionship
Housing animals with or apart from other animals as appropriate for their species. For sociable species like rabbits or guinea pigs, companionship with their own kind is crucial. Solitary species like hamsters may need to be housed alone.
Diet
Providing a suitable diet, including feeding appropriately for the pet’s life stage and preventing obesity or malnourishment. Access to fresh, clean water is also essential.
Environment
Ensuring a suitable environment, which includes the right type of home with comfortable resting places, hiding spots, space for exercise, and exploration.
Regulations for dog groomers

When starting a dog grooming business, it’s essential to be aware of various regulations and legislation to ensure compliance with legal requirements and maintain high standards of animal care and safety. Here are some key areas of legislation you should consider:
Business Registration
You’ll likely need to register your business with the appropriate local government authorities and obtain any necessary business licenses or permits to operate legally in your area.
Local Regulations
Check local laws to ensure your business location is viable for commercial purposes and allows for pet grooming services.
Health and Safety Regulations
Dog groomers must comply with health and safety regulations to ensure the safety of both animals and humans in their premises. This includes maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, proper handling of grooming equipment and chemicals, and implementing measures to prevent accidents and injuries.
Handling and Restraint
Understand proper handling and restraint techniques for grooming animals to prevent injuries and ensure their safety and well-being. This may involve following guidelines set by veterinary associations or animal welfare organisations.
Grooming Product Safety
Use grooming products that are safe for animals and comply with relevant regulations, such as restrictions on toxic ingredients or allergens.
Employee Regulations
If you hire employees, be aware of employment laws and regulations related to wages, working hours, employee rights, and workplace safety.
Record-Keeping and Documentation
Maintain accurate records of grooming services provided, client information, veterinary records, and any incidents or accidents that occur during grooming sessions.
Continuing Education and Training
Stay informed about industry best practices, new grooming techniques, and developments in animal care by participating in continuing education programs and training courses.
Customer Contracts and Consent
It’s advisable for dog groomers to have clear terms and conditions outlined in customer contracts, including details of the grooming services provided, pricing, cancellation policies, and liability disclaimers. Obtaining written consent from pet owners before grooming their dogs is also recommended.
Regulations Running a Grooming Business from Home
In the UK, you can run a dog grooming business from home if you have sufficient space and a safe environment. There are no specific licenses for pet grooming establishments, but you should be aware of relevant legislations, especially since you’ll be working with animals.
Regulations Running a Mobile Grooming Business

Transporting dogs for a dog grooming business typically involves adhering to certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, as well as compliance with relevant laws. Here are some considerations regarding the transportation of dogs for grooming:
Vehicle Safety
The vehicle used for transporting dogs should be safe, clean, and properly equipped to accommodate the animals. This may include securing crates or harnesses to prevent dogs from moving around excessively during transit, ensuring adequate ventilation and temperature control, and having appropriate restraints in place to prevent escape.
Dog Kennel Boarding Licensing
If you operate a commercial dog grooming business, you may need a license for dog kennel boarding activities. Consider whether your activity falls under the definition of a business (e.g., making a profit or earning commissions/fees).
Regulatory Bodies for Dog Groomers
It’s advisable to consult with legal professionals, industry associations, and regulatory agencies in your area to ensure full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations when starting and operating a dog grooming business. Additionally, joining professional grooming associations can provide valuable resources, support, and guidance for navigating regulatory requirements and maintaining high standards in your business.
Once qualified, dog groomers may choose to join professional organizations such as the British Dog Groomers’ Association (BDGA) or the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) to access further training opportunities, networking events, and support for their businesses.
Do I need a licence to run a dog grooming business?
Business Licenses and Permits
Apply for any required state and local licenses and permits:
General business license
Pet groomer’s license
Health department permit
In some areas of the UK, dog groomers may be required to obtain a license from the local authority to operate their business. Licensing requirements vary by location and may include compliance with specific standards for animal welfare, hygiene, and facility management.
Do I need a qualification to be a dog groomer?
In the UK, there are various qualifications and certifications available for individuals interested in pursuing a career in dog grooming. These qualifications provide training in grooming techniques, animal care, health and safety, and business management. Some of the most recognized qualifications for dog grooming in the UK include:
City & Guilds Dog Grooming Qualifications
City & Guilds offers a range of dog grooming qualifications, including:
Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants: This qualification covers basic grooming techniques and prepares individuals for entry-level roles in dog grooming salons.
Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming: This qualification is suitable for individuals looking to become professional dog groomers. It covers a wide range of grooming techniques, including breed-specific styling, hand-stripping, and scissoring.
OCN London Dog Grooming Qualifications
OCN London offers accredited qualifications in dog grooming, including:
Level 3 Diploma in Professional Dog Grooming: This qualification covers advanced grooming techniques and prepares individuals for a career as a professional dog groomer.
International Certified Master Groomer (ICMG): The ICMG certification is recognized globally and demonstrates advanced skills and expertise in dog grooming. To become an ICMG, groomers must complete a series of practical and written exams.
British Dog Groomers’ Association (BDGA) Qualifications
The BDGA offers a range of training courses and certifications for dog groomers, including:
BDGA Certified Dog Groomer: This certification is awarded to groomers who have completed the BDGA’s training program and demonstrated competency in grooming techniques and salon management.
BDGA Master Groomer: This advanced certification is available to experienced groomers who have completed additional training and demonstrated mastery in grooming skills.
Other Training Providers and Courses: In addition to the above qualifications, there are many private training providers and colleges offering dog grooming courses and certifications. These courses vary in length and content and may lead to qualifications such as diplomas or certificates of completion.
Do I need insurance as a dog groomer?
Protection against claims if a member of the public gets injured.
A dog in your care causes injury to a member of the public; a customer slips and injures themselves on your business premises; you cause accidental damage to your clients’ property whilst delivering your services can all be covered with the right level of public liability cover.
An employee suffers a workplace accident.
Employees may be at risk of accidents or injuries during their work. If you employ people for your business employers’ liability is a legal obligation with fines of £2500 per day for failing to comply.
Vet costs for animals in your care.
Dogs can be unpredictable, and you may accidentally cause an injury during a grooming session, cutting a paw or tail for example. Whilst no one wants harm to come to any animal it’s important to ensure you are covered to get them treatment if accidents happen.
Protect your equipment from costly losses.
Investing in quality tools is likely to be important to your business. Not only could equipment be expensive to replace but any losses could also impact the service you offer. If your grooming equipment becomes damaged, is lost or stolen, dog grooming business cover can help avoid these situations.
What is GDPR in dog grooming?

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is a significant legal framework that impacts businesses, including dog grooming services, within the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom. Here’s what you need to know:
Purpose:
GDPR aims to harmonise data protection laws across EU member states.
It ensures that personal data held by any organisation is processed securely and transparently.
Key Points:
Data Collection: When collecting personal data (such as customer information), ensure it is used only for its intended purpose.
- Storage and Deletion: Safely delete data when it is no longer necessary.
- Transparency: Be transparent about how you use and store data.
- Processing Context: GDPR applies to organisations with EU establishments where personal data is processed in the context of their activities.
Dog Grooming and GDPR:
As a dog groomer, you handle client information, including details about pets and appointments.
Ensure compliance by:
- Informing clients about the data you collect and how it’s used.
- Safeguarding online data with passwords.
- Managing customer records responsibly.
- Using secure scheduling software and payment platforms.
- Not sharing customer data for marketing purposes.
Get Dog Grooming Insurance with Protectivity
Protectivity provides comprehensive, affordable dog grooming cover for professionals just like you, whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. Our policies encompass Public Liability that covers injuries or property damage; Care, Custody and Control cover of up to £100,000 in case a dog gets ill or injured, and up to £30,000 of specialist cover for your equipment. Whether you’re a dog walker or have a different pet business, having the right level of cover is essential.
With our insurance, available through flexible payment plans, you can groom dogs with confidence that an accidental error won’t hit you in the pocket. Find out more on our dog grooming policy here.
Get Dog Grooming Insurance from Protectivity
*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.
Last updated by
My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.
For the small businesses we support, insurance and financial protection can sometimes seem complicated, especially when getting started. That’s why our content is designed to be clear and practical—providing helpful guidance and ensuring our customers not only find the specialist cover they require but are confident it will do the job they need.