How to start a dog grooming business in the UK
Starting a grooming business is mostly about skills, insurance and getting customers through the door. Here's a checklist of what to sort out, roughly in order. Rules can differ between councils and nations, so check the details locally.
1. Get trained
You don't need a specific qualification to groom in the UK, but customers and insurers look for one. Recognised routes include City & Guilds and iPET Network grooming qualifications, often taken at a grooming academy alongside practical experience in a salon.
2. Choose how you'll work
- A salon or unit: more space and walk-ins, but rent and business rates
- From home: low costs, but check planning permission, your mortgage or tenancy, and your home insurance
- Mobile: a converted van brings the salon to the customer; budget for the van, water, power and parking
3. Register the business
Register with HMRC as self-employed, or set up a limited company. Keep records of income and expenses from day one. If you'll hold customers' details on a computer or phone, check whether you need to pay the ICO data protection fee.
4. Get insured
Public liability insurance is the minimum. Most groomers also want care, custody and control cover, which protects you if a dog is hurt while in your care. Add equipment and van cover as needed.
5. Set your prices and policies
Work out your costs and the time each groom really takes, then price by size, coat and service. Decide your deposit, cancellation and no-show rules before your first booking, and make sure customers see them.
6. Make booking easy
Set up a Google Business Profile and a Facebook or Instagram page, and give customers one link to book and pay a deposit. It saves hours of messages and protects you from no-shows from the start.
Last updated 29 October 2026.