10 Best Tips for Visiting a Pet Grooming Salon

After baths, my dog looks like a dandelion shedding fluff and smells like dried salted fish left out for three days. Finally, I made the tough decision to take him to a professional pet grooming salon. Over the years, I’ve hit countless snags but also learned some tricks. Today, I’ll share them all at once so you won’t regret it like I did back then.

1. Make an appointment in advance at the pet grooming salon.

99% of good shops require booking 1–2 weeks in advance, and weekends/holidays are especially packed.
For your first visit, choose a weekday morning—fewer customers, groomers are more patient, and your dog will be more relaxed.
When booking by phone, ask directly: “How busy are you today? How long would I likely wait?” This gives you a good sense of their workload and service attitude.

2. Choosing a pet grooming shop is more important than choosing a partner

Don’t just count positive reviews—focus on the negative ones.
If complaints repeatedly mention “cut injuries,” “bleeding ears,” or “excessive shedding after grooming,” skip that place immediately.
Pay close attention to whether the shop responds to negative reviews. Those with good customer service are usually reliable.
Always visit the shop in person! Check if the cages are clean, if there’s an ammonia smell, and observe your dog’s reaction during the grooming session—is it distressed or calm?

3. Vaccinations and Deworming Must Be Up to Date

Reputable pet grooming shops will require proof of vaccination records and external parasite treatment history.
Puppies that haven’t completed their vaccinations should be bathed at home or by a mobile groomer.
If fleas are brought in, the entire shop must close for disinfection—the owner fears this more than you do.

4. Ensure your dog defecates at home the day before

Many dogs relieve themselves when stressed. No matter how clean the salon floor is, it can’t withstand your dog’s impromptu “poop freedom” performance.
Take them for a walk before leaving, ideally after they’ve done their business. If they relieve themselves at the salon… the one feeling embarrassed will be you, not the dog.

5. Go to Pet Grooming on an empty stomach or eat lightly.

Vomiting is most likely to occur when the belly is exposed during bathing, especially for puppies and brachycephalic breeds.
Avoid feeding your dog for 3 hours before departure. Bring a small treat to reward them after grooming.

6. Clearly communicate your desired style to the Pet Grooming professional in advance.

Prepare clear reference photos!
Avoid vague requests like “trim it shorter,” “make it rounder,” or “like a Teddy,” as interpretations vary.
Focus on these specifics:
Desired coat length
Face shape preference (round/square/natural)
Whether to shave the rear
Trimming paw hair
Ear hair removal
Once I said “just do whatever you think is best,” and my Bichon came back looking like a punk rocker…

7. For first-time visits to a pet grooming salon, accompany your dog throughout the entire session.

Observe the groomer’s techniques: pulling hair, yanking ears, or forcefully holding the head are red flags.
A good groomer will first build trust with your dog, use treats to coax them, and move gently.
If your dog screams and struggles throughout the session, switch salons immediately. Money is less important than your dog’s mental health and emotional well-being.

8. Inform the groomer of any special circumstances beforehand.

Skin conditions
Injection sites
Fear of blow dryers/electric clippers/scissors
Previous cutting injuries
Spay/neuter surgery within the last month
Failure to mention these may lead to the salon shifting blame if issues arise.

9. Bring your own leash and muzzle

Many salons share public leashes among dozens of dogs, risking cross-infection.
For excitable breeds like Shiba Inus, Corgis, or Bullies, bring a soft muzzle to protect both the groomer and your dog.

10. The 24-hour care after Pet Grooming is crucial

Upon returning home, let your dog drink water first; avoid feeding immediately.
If ear powder was applied, keep ears dry for 24 hours.
Freshly shaved skin is sensitive—avoid sun exposure and bathing for two days.
Monitor for frequent ear scratching, body shaking, or rubbing against carpets.

Hard-learned lessons from visiting pet grooming shops

Expensive ≠ Good: A $30 salon cut my dog twice, while an $8 salon was gentle and professional.
Increased shedding after grooming is normal and usually subsides within a week.
Summer baths: once a month. Winter: every 6-8 weeks. Over-bathing causes skin issues.
Groomer says “You must buy our shampoo/perfume for warranty”? Walk away—it’s pure rip-off.