Chapter Three: Groomer Responsibilities: What You Do

Professional dog grooming involves more than appearance. Groomers are responsible for supporting a dog’s comfort, safety, and well-being while providing services that meet owner expectations.

A groomer’s role combines technical grooming skills, safe animal handling, and clear communication.

A Professional Groomer’s Responsibilities Include:

• Working with dogs of different breeds, sizes, coat types, and temperaments
• Brushing, detangling, bathing, and drying coats
• Selecting grooming products based on coat and skin condition
• Trimming and styling coats using clippers and scissors
• Performing basic hygiene care, such as nail trimming and ear cleaning
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized grooming environment
• Safely handling and restraining dogs throughout the grooming process
• Communicating with owners to understand grooming preferences
• Observing dogs for signs of discomfort or potential health concerns
• Referring pets to veterinary care when necessary
• Staying current with professional grooming practices and standards

Groomer Responsibilities: Do Not Do

Understanding professional limits is essential to ethical and safe grooming practice. Groomers must know which services are outside the scope of grooming care.

A Professional Groomer Must Not:

• Perform medical, surgical, or cosmetic procedures
• Use anesthesia or sedatives
• Diagnose illnesses or medical conditions
• Prescribe or administer medications or injections
• Perform veterinary dental procedures

These services require licensed veterinary training. When a dog’s condition goes beyond grooming care, a groomer’s responsibility is to advise the owner and recommend veterinary attention.