Which of the many dog grooming courses you end up choosing very much depends on your immediate goal.

For example, you may be wishing to save money and time by grooming your own dog yourself. Alternatively you may be looking at dog grooming with a view to starting your own business.

Interestingly enough, quite often the latter aspiration, starting a dog grooming business, often springs out of the 1st goal of simply wanting to be able to manage your own dog grooming yourself. Either way, there is a course for you.

Why Learn How To Groom Dogs?

There are several reasons that make sense for a dog owner to master this skill.

For example:

• Grooming your own dog is usually less stressful on your dog.
• It should be cheaper. A visit to the dog salon every 4 to 6 weeks certainly mounts up cost-wise.
• You don’t have to fit in with times that your groomer is open.
• You are not restricted by whether or not there is an available appointment at the time that you are also free. Many a time I have been caught out close to Christmas or before holiday times just when I have wanted to book my dog in for a clipping only to find that all available time slots were already gone.
• Grooming provides a chance for you to examine your dog more thoroughly yourself. It’s an additional assurance that there are no hidden surprises such as a little lump or grass seed etc.

Why Use a Dog Grooming Course?

Whilst there are many reasons for learning how to groom your own dog, it is not necessarily easy unless you know how. There’s nothing like watching how it is done via a video to get it down pat. Sure, you can watch the professional groomer who has been washing and cutting your dog’s hair up until now, but it is not the same. Usually this would be discouraged anyway by your groomer and if it is not, you still feel in the way trying to peer over the groomer’s shoulder. Furthermore, there are so many areas that come under the heading of grooming. For example, you need to take care of:

• Shampooing
• Clipping
• Blow-drying
• Cleaning ears
• Cutting nails
• Cleaning eyes
• Different styles
• Etc.

The Psychology of Dog Grooming

Dog Pyschology

If you are learning this as a business, then you will need to know how to handle a wide range of dog breeds, temperament types, sizes, weights etc. If it is your own dog, then you will already know his/her temperament. However, it is still good to know how to minimize any stress levels that might be present in your pooch. For example, I don’t know how many times I have given my Shih Tzu a bath but he still finds it quite stressful. I have learned over time that the stress levels skyrocket if he can see me preparing his bath and the shampoo etc. So I have learned to get everything ready beforehand which means that before he has had a chance to build up a negative expectation, he is already soaking in his warm soothing bath.

Owner Psychology

If you are just learning grooming for your own purposes, then this consideration is a no-brainer. You only have yourself to contend with. If, on the other hand, you intend to turn dog grooming into a business then it is just as important to be able to read the owner as it is the dog. You will want to have a happy owner customer as well as a happy dog when all is said and done.

The Business Side of Dog Grooming

If you are learning grooming with the intention of setting up a business then there are the usual business considerations to contend with. You will need to cover aspects such as:

• Time-management
• Making bookings
• Handling money
• Keeping track of appointments
• Keeping track of supplies and when you need to reorder etc.

Dog Grooming Courses Available

There are many different types of dog grooming courses to consider, such as face-to-face instruction at a salon, study at an educational institution, distance learning mode or via online courses that allow you to learn at your own pace in your own time. There are courses that cover the business side equally as well as the skills required to do a good grooming job. There will be one type of Dog Grooming Course that meets your specific needs in particular. With this in mind, I will be outlining what each has to offer so that you are in a better position to make the correct choice.

Examples of Online Dog Grooming Courses (By Goal)

The best dog grooming course for you depends on whether you’re learning for personal use or planning to work professionally.

For Grooming Your Own Dog at Home

If your main goal is to manage your own dog’s grooming confidently, beginner-friendly online courses can provide structured lessons and demonstrations without professional pressure.

Examples include:

• International Open Academy – Guide to Dog Grooming (entry-level fundamentals)
• Upskillist – Diploma in Dog Care, Nutrition and Grooming (broader home-focused learning)
• Train Pet Dog – Grooming Your Dog at Home (handling and stress reduction, plus free resources)

For Professional or Business-Focused Grooming

If you’re considering dog grooming as a career or business, professional training programs focus more heavily on technique, consistency, and industry standards.

Examples include:

• JKL Grooming – Online Dog Grooming Diploma / Groomer Tech Diploma
• New Skills Academy – Dog Grooming Certification
• Independent Dog Boss (business setup and pricing for independent groomers) – Enter coupon DGCO to get $100 off your course!
• Savvy Groomer – Self-Study Masterclasses (business education for established or aspiring grooming businesses, such as pricing and sustainable revenue systems)

Important Note

Not all courses suit every goal. Some are designed for pet owners, while others are intended for professional training or business development. Always review course outlines carefully before enrolling.

~ DGCO ~

Finding the right course for your dog grooming education can be confusing. There is so much information out there and such variation in what they offer.

To narrow the choices, it helps to have a checklist of what you are looking for in a course.

Do you want practical grooming skills, business training, or both?

Do you need online study due to location or time constraints?

Are you aiming to work professionally or run your own pet business?

For example, if distance from a large center is an issue then an online dog grooming course might suit best.

Pet Grooming Schools & Courses

JKL Grooming — Online Dog Grooming Diploma Course

JKL’s main program is the Online Dog Grooming Diploma Course, delivered 100% online and self-paced. It’s designed for people who want a structured learning pathway and need the flexibility to study from home.

Also offered: JKL Groomer Tech Course (a more hands-on track that includes practicum-style requirements).

New Skills Academy — Dog Grooming Certification

New Skills Academy offers the Dog Grooming Certification course. It’s structured as an online, module-based program for learners who want a clear syllabus and a certification-style format.

Upskillist — Diploma in Dog Care, Nutrition and Grooming

Upskillist’s course is the Diploma in Dog Care, Nutrition and Grooming. It’s a good fit for learners who want broader coverage (dog care + nutrition + grooming routines), and prefer lessons delivered in a straightforward, guided format.

International Open Academy — Guide to Dog Grooming

International Open Academy’s course is titled Guide to Dog Grooming. It covers grooming foundations (tools, safety, coat care, basic trimming concepts) and suits learners who want an entry-level online course they can complete at their own pace.

Pet Business & Grooming Business Education

Independent Dog Boss — (Use coupon DGCO for $100 off)

Independent Dog Boss is best for people who want to turn grooming skills into a business, with a strong focus on pricing, clients, and building an independent grooming income.

Enter coupon code DGCO at checkout to get $100 off your course!

Savvy Groomer — Self-Study Masterclasses

Savvy Groomer offers business-focused education for grooming businesses via Self-Study Masterclasses, including topics like raising prices and building sustainable revenue. This is best suited to groomers (or managers) who want practical business systems rather than beginner grooming technique.

Pet Business Books

Six-Figure Pet Business: Unleash the Potential in Your Dog Training, Pet Grooming, and Doggy Daycare Business

Prosperous Pet Business: Interviews With The Experts 

Six-Figure Pet Sitting: Catapult Your Pet Sitting Business to Unlimited

JKL has been offering distance-based dog grooming education for many years, and their courses are often chosen by students who want flexibility while still working toward a professional qualification.

Below is a simple comparison of JKL’s two main online grooming diplomas to help you decide which one may suit your goals.

The JKL Dog Grooming Diploma

The Dog Grooming Diploma is JKL’s most in-depth online grooming course. It’s designed for people who want a strong foundation in professional dog grooming and plan to work in the industry long term.

This course covers grooming from the basics through to more advanced skills and breed styles.

Key points:

• 100% online and self-paced
• Covers a wide range of grooming skills and techniques
• Includes theory lessons, grooming charts, and assessments
• Tutor support is available throughout the course
• Optional practicum with photo or video submission for feedback

This diploma may suit you if:

• you want detailed training rather than a short introduction
• you’re planning to work in a grooming salon, mobile grooming, or start your own business
• you want confidence working with different coat types and styles

The JKL Groomer Tech Diploma

The Groomer Tech Diploma is a shorter online course that focuses on essential grooming skills. It’s often chosen by people who want to enter the grooming industry more quickly or start in a support or technician role.

While it doesn’t go into the same depth as the full diploma, it still provides structured training and guidance.

Key points:

• Fully online and self-paced
• Shorter course length than the full diploma
• Focuses on core grooming techniques and safety
• Tutor support included
• Optional practicum with photo or video assessment

This diploma may suit you if:

• you want to complete training in a shorter timeframe
• you’re looking at entry-level grooming or assistant roles
• you want to test whether professional grooming is the right path for you

Side-by-Side Overview

Dog Grooming Diploma

• Longer course with more detailed training
• Covers advanced grooming skills and breed styles
• Better suited to long-term professional grooming goals

Groomer Tech Diploma

• Shorter course focused on core skills
• Covers the essentials needed for grooming support roles
• Better suited to quicker entry into the industry

Both courses are delivered online, include tutor support, and allow students to study at their own pace.

What You’ll Learn in Both Courses

Both diplomas cover important grooming topics, including:

• grooming tools and basic maintenance
• dog handling and safety
• bathing, drying, brushing, and finishing
• coat types and grooming techniques
• professional grooming standards

The main difference is the level of depth, with the full diploma going further into styling and technique.

Cost and Study Flexibility

Course pricing can vary and may change over time, so it’s best to check current fees directly. In general:

• the Dog Grooming Diploma is the higher-cost option due to its length and detail
• the Groomer Tech Diploma is usually more affordable and quicker to complete

Both courses are designed to fit around work, family, or other commitments.

Which JKL Course Is Right for You?

Choose the Dog Grooming Diploma if you want a more complete education and are serious about working as a professional groomer.

Choose the Groomer Tech Diploma if you want a shorter course that still provides structured training and helps you get started sooner.

Enrolment and Course Links

You can view full course details, current pricing, and enrolment options here:

• JKL Dog Grooming Diploma
• JKL Groomer Tech Diploma
  

Having the right dog grooming supplies is essential when embarking on a dog grooming career or even when deciding to groom your own dog.

And the term equipment, or grooming supplies, covers quite a range of items that you might need, depending on whether or not you are working for yourself or working for a dog grooming salon or a dog owner instead, grooming your dog at home.

How convenient is it to be able to shop for dog grooming supplies online!!

Dog Groomers Supplies Checklist

So what are the basics that could be deemed necessary in your collection of pet grooming supplies?

When it comes to dog grooming equipment for sale online, it is hard to go past this list:

Dog Grooming Tables

• Reviews of Dog Grooming Tables
  • Grooming Table in Fashion Colors Review
  • BoneShaped Folding Pet Grooming Table, 45-Inch
  • Grooming Table with Arm
  • Master Equipment Grooming Arm
• Electric Dog Grooming Tables
• Dog Grooming Tables for Large Dogs
• Hydraulic Dog Grooming Tables
• Which Dog Grooming Table do I Need?
• Catalog of Dog Grooming Tables (affiliate link)

Dog Brushes & Dog Combs

• Which Dog Brush do I Need?
• A Catalog of Dog Brushes & Dog Shedding Tools (affiliate link)
• Comprehensive Catalog of Dog Combs (affiliate link)

Dog Nail Clippers

• How to Select the Right Dog Nail Clippers
• Catalog of Dog Nail Clippers (affiliate link)

Dog Tubs and Dog Wash Grooming Supplies

• Dog Shower & Dog Bath Accessories (affiliate link)
• Paws for Thought Booster Bath – a review
• 4 Dog Bath Tubs Reviewed
• Dog Bath Tubs for Groomers
• Master Equipment Grooming Tub

Dog Dryers & Blasters

• Different Types of Dog Dryers
• Air Force Master Blasters

Dog Shampoo & Dog Conditioner Products

• Bathing Products – Dog Shampoos
• Catalog of Dog Shampoos & Conditioners (affiliate link)

Dog Grooming Clippers & Scissors – Dog Shedding Tools

• Reviews
  • Clippers for Poodles
  • Oster Animal Clipper
  • Andis Clipper with Locking Blade
  • 4 Andis 2-Speed Clippers Reviewed
  • Grooming Shears
  • Shedding Tool
• Professional Dog Grooming Scissors
• Catalog of Dog Grooming Scissors (affiliate link)

Dog Coat Treatments

• Flea Treatments for Dogs

Professional Dog Grooming Apparel

• Waterproof Aprons for Dog Grooming & Dog Groomer Casual Wear
• Catalog of Dog Groomer Apparel (affiliate link)

Vacuums for Dog Hair

• Vacuums Suitable for Pet Hair
• Handheld Vacuums for Pet Hair
• Reviews of Vacuums for Pet Hair:
  • The Miele S7260 Cat & Dog Upright Vacuum
  • Vacuum Cleaning Robot for Pets
  • iRobot Braava 380t

Why Professional Dog Grooming Supplies

If you are a professional groomer working for yourself, you will need an appropriate table,  a place to bath your doggie customers, towels, grooming clippers, various sized combs and brushes and the right grooming clothing.

You can use the links above to jump to the required professional dog grooming equipment category.

Equipment for Grooming Your Dog at Home

On the other hand, if you are grooming your dog at home, then you probably have opted for the laundry as a place for your dog wash tub and will most likely be using a table that you already have at home for the stylish dog hair cut that follows.

In that case, you probably need to get shampoos & conditions, the right shears & clippers, combs, brushes that suit the breed of your dog and toenail clippers.

You can use the links above to jump to the particular dog grooming tools you need.

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This list will be added to as other products come on the market or different grooming tools become more popular. In the meantime, let’s know, via comments, if you have any favorite tools that you would like to add to the list.

In the meantime, you might find some useful tips from our post on how to groom a Shih Tzu . It includes a very useful video.

~ DGCO ~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Highlights

• The grooming table top is a laminated wood composite with a rubber cover that resists slipping.
• It is a folding table which makes transporting very easy.
• Dimensions are:
  • Length: 36 inches
  • Width: 24 inches
  • Height: 32 inches

Feedback on the Portable Master Equipment Grooming Table

Customer feedback has been very positive with comments similar to the following:

Advantages

• The table is sturdy.
• The non-slip top is a plus.
• It is real value for money.

Disadvantages

• It can take a little effort to lock the legs into position.

All in all, customers have reported being very happy with this dog grooming table.

You can access the current price by clicking on the photo below:

Master Equipment Foldable, Portable Pet Grooming Table

Similarly, here is one of the best sources to find professional pet grooming clippers: Clippers for grooming dogs

Specials and Holiday Deals

Save on pet gifts:

Shop Amazon – Gift Ideas in Pet Supplies

Shop Amazon – Most Wished For in Pet Supplies

Shop Amazon – Hot New Releases in Pet Supplies

Other Pet Supplies

It is hard to go past Amazon for pet supplies and dog products in general. They offer so many great deals. Check out the current offers below:

Featured Deals in Pet Supplies

Pet Hair Vacuums

I suggest you also read my reviews of other vacuums specially designed to pick up pet hair. At the moment groomers and dog owners are rating the Miele S7260 very highly.

Here are some cute dog gift ideas for dog groomers. Each gift can personalized so that you can add a name or a dog grooming salon to advertise services if preferred.

Dog Clothes Online

Keep your dog warm and stylish at the same time with some of these cute dog shirts. Perfect for owners who take an interest in fashion for dogs.

Personalized Dog Gifts

Personalize your dog tshirt with your own message or photo or artistic design of the above gifts.

This sturdy grooming table is proving popular with both DIY dog groomers as well as professional groomers.

Description

• Type: Folding
• Color: black
• Dimensions (inches):
  • length: 45
  • width: 25.5
  • height: 30
• Top of Table:
  • in the shape of a bone, allowing the groomer to get closer to the dog being groomed.
  • has a non-slip surface.

Pros & Cons of the Pet Grooming Table

Advantages

• Easier on the groomer’s back.
• Ideal table height.
• The rubber padding on the top of the table.
• Inclusion of the overhead arm attachment is very useful because it supports the dog securely and minimizes movement and/or any inclination to jump off.
• A sturdy table that would suit both at-home groomers as well as professional dog groomers.

Disadvantages

• Yet to discover one

To see a list of other types of grooming tables, CLICK HERE.

Fiona, from Fur Creations Dog Grooming, has kindly provided us with her insights into what it is like to work as a professional dog groomer.

You can find details of Fiona’s mobile dog grooming salon at the end of this interview.

Interview with Fiona from Fur Creations

1. I have a lot of readers who are thinking of becoming dog groomers. What qualifications & regulations do they need to have in Australia (South Australia)?
   There are no qualifications or regulations to becoming a dog groomer in SA. If you do however start your own business, you will need public liability insurance, as well as a registered business name and ABN.
   

   Is there a range of salary that they could reasonably expect in Australia (working for a salon/running their own business)?
   Salaries based on a 38 hour week, vary from a basic wage in a salon $35,000 per year, to running your own business starting at approximately $50,000 before expenses and more if you work more :).
   

   
   
2. Could you tell us about how you became a dog groomer?
   Did you do a course or take an apprenticeship or was it on-the-job training?
   I learned all my dog grooming from on the job training. I was employed by a salon and trained over a period of 12 months full time. I feel this is the best way to learn as you experience all aspects of grooming, dog behaviour and the running of the business.
   How long did the course/training take?
   It only took approximately 3 months to learn the grooming side of things, but dealing with difficult dogs and difficult situations took a little longer, only because it’s not something you have to deal with every day.
   

   
   Do you have any recommendations for others wanting to train to be a dog groomer?
   This way of training has made me a great groomer, and organised business owner. I would recommend anyone who wants a business in grooming to learn as much as you can before starting out on your own. It’s the small things that can make or break a business.

   
   
3. Many readers ask about the pros and cons of working as a dog groomer. Do you have any advice for them on this point?
   Pros of being a dog groomer
   
   
   • You get to work with dogs all day.
   
   
   • You can start your own business without much layout.
   
   
   • Once you have your own business, the pros are endless.
   
   

   Cons of being a dog groomer

   • Can be tough physically, especially on the back and wrists.
   • In the hot weather fur can get stuck in the pores of your skin, which can be painful.
   • Having your own business means work never ends.
4. You mention on your site that you do grooming and styling of all types of dogs, including specialty breeds. We have a lot of readers looking for help with grooming Poodles & Cockapoos. Do you have any advice on mastering grooming of specialty breeds?
   Working on specialty breeds is fun, it sometimes requires more work but the end result is very satisfying. The advice I have when working on specialty breeds is:
   • Take your time.
   • Always ensure the preclip is almost perfect, this will help with attention to detail on the final clip.
   • When doing poodle feet & face, try to get them as perfect as possible on the preclip, this will prevent clipper rash when doing the final clip, if the feet or face are slightly damp.
   • It is very important to have the fur completely dry, especially curly fur. If you don’t, your final clip will not be even. Also, once the fur is dry, brush the fur up. This will ensure a smooth even clip.
5. Are there any other tips you have for want-to-be dog groomers and/or for dog owners doing their own grooming?
   I guess the only tips I have are:
   
   
   
   • Love the dogs,
   • Remember they are animals not humans,
   • Stay focused,
   • Be passionate,
   • Enjoy yourself,
   • Never rush and
   • Be happy doing what you do!

~~~~~~~~~

Thanks so much Fiona for taking the time to provide this very interesting interview!! This is the kind of information that really helps want-to-be groomers.

If you have a question that you would like to ask Fiona, please feel free to leave a comment below.

~ DGCO with Fiona from Fur Creations ~

Excessive heat is a very common cause of this kind of panting, as you would expect. But it is not the only reason. So we’ll briefly look at other possibilities before discussing how to manage the overheating issue. This is a matter of concern for both groomers as well as for dog owners.

Why Is My Dog Panting and Restless?

There are a number of reasons that can explain a panting dog, some more serious than others.

Let’s discuss a few of these causes.

• Perhaps your dog has become really excited, for whatever reason. The neighborhood cat? The next-door dog peeping through the fence? Whatever the source of extra interest, out comes the tongue in his excited state.
• Your dog might be at the end of his daily walk. He could pant for a little while until he settles down again.
• Or there could be more serious reasons behind the panting, in which case immediate veterinary attention is warranted. These more serious reasons can include heatstroke, poisoning or an underlying health problem. Addressing these is beyond the scope of this article but it is of the utmost importance that you seek expert intervention by your vet if the symptoms suggest such concerns.
• Then there is the reason that we are talking about here: overheating.

Heat Exhaustion in Dogs – Signs

Given that we are addressing the overheating cause, with respect to panting, let’s look at the signs of heat exhaustion in dogs in general. What you can do about it and how can you hopefully prevent it in the future.

1. The obvious sign is the one that we are talking about here: panting.
   Since dogs don’t sweat, like we do, panting is a mechanism that cools them down, if heat is the cause. We can often see drooling as well, or droplets of water coming from the far-outstretched tongue. Water evaporation via the mouth is all part of the cooling down process.
2. But another sign that your dog might be too hot or might be suffering from heat exhaustion is lethargy. However, if your dog is much more lethargic than usual, then it pays to investigate further. Is it just the heat or something else that suggests a trip to the vet?
3. If a dog appears dizzy, there is a problem. It could be heat but it could be something even more serious. Let the vet decide.
4. If your dog vomits or even loses consciousness, then you might be looking at heatstroke. You definitely need to get him to the vet ASAP, preferably before the loss of consciousness.

Possible Causes of Overheating in a Dog

Whilst panting is one of the obvious signs that your dog might be overheating or potentially suffering from heat exhaustion, there could be a few different causes behind the overheating.

1. This might sound too obvious, but one cause could be that the dog was simply outside too long on a hot day.
2. Given that you are reading this article, you are someone who really cares about dogs and their welfare. So, I’m sure you would probably never do this: I’m talking about leaving a dog in a hot car. This is of course a big no-no but I don’t know how many times I have read of just such an incident. Horrible.
3. Another reason dogs could be overheating is that they have over-exercised for the capacity of their breed. Some breeds are more energetic than others, so it pays to do research about the breed prior to adopting or buying.
4. Overweight dogs feel the heat after exercising much more rapidly than their slender counterparts.
5. Again, this might sound obvious, but long haired dogs and older dogs are also more prone to overheating and heat exhaustion. So, groomers to the rescue here.
6. Age can also be an issue. Excessive panting in older dogs could be related to overweight, lack of fitness, mere aging or something else altogether. If you can’t pinpoint an actual cause, this should set off alarm bells; consult your vet.

How to Relieve a Panting Dog

So what can you do to help alleviate a mild case of overheating in your dog?

The points in the next section can give you ideas of how to prevent overheating, but what if you suspect your dog is already suffering from heat? What can you do to provide relief?

• First and foremost, if it is overheating that we are talking about, then the dog’s immediate comfort is the goal. This means getting him to a shaded, cooler spot as soon as possible.
• Provide the dog with some water, but don’t force him to drink.
• Get some damp towels and wrap them around your dog.
• You could also try a cooling mat:
• How about a cool dog pool? Ideal for dogs that love the water.

If your dog has signs of heatstroke, like vomiting and losing consciousness, as already mentioned, then you are looking at something else altogether. In those cases, it is straight to the vet.

Ideas to Prevent Heat Exhaustion in Dogs

But what can you do to minimize the risk of overheating in your dog in the first place?

Prevention is best.

• Check the outside temperature before venturing out on a long walk.
  If you find it uncomfortably hot, your dog will too.
• Utilize fans/air conditioning inside the home on days of excessive heat.
• Make more frequent visits to the groomer during summer for long haired dogs. You know how much cooler you feel with shorter hair in the hot months; so too does your furry friend.
• If you need to be outside with your dog on very hot days, for whatever reason, make frequent stops in shady areas.
• Never leave a dog in a car on a hot day. Some businesses will even allow well behaved dogs inside provided they are on a leash.
• If you can’t leave a dog at home alone and don’t think you could bring him into a store, then consider leaving him with a neighbour or friend, if possible.
• Wait for a cooler day to go for that long dog walk. Make sure your dog doesn’t over exercise. If he ‘insists’ on a walk when it is really hot outside, choose the early morning or the evening after temperatures start to cool down somewhat.
• If you do let your dogs out in the yard on a hot day, make sure, that they have shade and protection from the sun. Always make sure there is a plentiful supply of water. I’m sure dog owners would remember to give their dogs clean, fresh water everyday, but checking on water levels is even more critical when it’s hot.

Summing Up

So, to sum it up, preventing heat stress, before you have a heavily panting dog, is by far the best course to take.

Make sure your dog always has access to shade, has plenty of water available and, if long-haired, receives that summer clip from your groomer.

The rest is pretty straightforward and commonsense. Walk in the cool of the morning or evening and always avoid leaving a dog in a vehicle on a hot day.

And I know I’m going to sound repetitive here, but if a dog is showing signs of extreme heat agitation, or heatstroke, on panting for no obvious reason, please take him to a vet.

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