Equipment & Setup
Whether you're starting your first grooming business or upgrading an existing setup, knowing exactly what tools you need — and what they cost — prevents expensive mistakes. This is the master list professional groomers actually use.
Clippers are your most-used tool — and the wrong ones will cause fatigue, missed cuts, and stressed dogs. For professional use, cordless models from Andis, Wahl, or Oster are the industry standard.
Heavy-duty rotary clipper
$150–$350For thick, double-coated breeds
Finishing clipper
$100–$200Detail work and sensitive areas
Clipper blade set (assorted)
$80–$200#3, #4, #5, #7, #10, #15, #30, #40
Blade coolant spray
$10–$20Keeps blades cool and clean mid-groom
Blade wash solution
$15–$30Daily cleaning between appointments
Clipper oil
$8–$15Extend blade life significantly
A good shear set is a long-term investment. Professional-grade scissors stay sharper longer, reduce hand fatigue, and give cleaner cuts. Budget options wear out quickly and cost more over time through frequent replacement.
Straight shears (7"–8.5")
$80–$300Body work, straight lines
Curved shears
$80–$250Topknots, rounded finishes
Thinning shears
$60–$200Blending, removing bulk
Chunkers / texturizing shears
$70–$200Volume removal, natural finish
Small detail shears (5"–6")
$50–$150Face, ears, paws
Efficient bathing and drying is where you win or lose time. A high-velocity dryer cuts drying time by 50–70% compared to stand dryers — on a full day of grooms, that adds up to hours.
High-velocity dryer
$200–$500Removes water fast, reduces coat matting
Stand dryer
$150–$400Hands-free finishing dryer
Grooming tub / bathing station
$300–$1,500Stainless or fiberglass; elevated for back health
Handheld sprayer
$30–$80Flexible rinse attachment
Shampoo and conditioner (professional grade)
$40–$120/moDilutable concentrates reduce per-dog cost
Towels (microfiber, 12+ pack)
$50–$100Fast-absorbing, machine-washable
Never groom on the floor. A proper grooming table protects your back, keeps the dog secure, and makes every groom faster and safer. Hydraulic tables are the gold standard for full-time groomers.
You need tools for every coat type. A slicker brush that works on a Shih Tzu won't do much for a Husky. Build a complete set and label it by coat type to save time during busy days.
Slicker brush (sizes S, M, L)
$15–$50 eachRemoves tangles and loose fur
Pin brush
$10–$40Long coats and silky breeds
Undercoat rake
$15–$35Double-coated breeds
Greyhound-style comb (coarse/fine)
$10–$25Finishing and mat detection
Dematting comb
$15–$30Breaks apart mats safely
Furminator or deshedding tool
$30–$60Reduces shedding appointments
Equipment is just the physical side of the business. You'll also need software to manage bookings, reminders, and client records. Read our guide on dog grooming business management to see how the operational side comes together.
Step-by-step guide to building or converting a mobile grooming trailer — layout, plumbing, electrical, equipment, costs, and the software that keeps your mobile business running smoothly.
Protect your grooming business with a free dog grooming waiver template. Covers senior dogs, matting, medical emergencies, and behavioral risks — ready to customize and use.
Protect your grooming business with a solid client contract. Here's exactly what to include, plus a ready-to-use dog grooming contract template.
A complete guide to dog grooming client intake forms — what questions to ask, what information protects your business, and how to collect it digitally without the paperwork.
Cut grooming no-shows by 60% with automated reminders, deposit policies, and a multi-touch follow-up strategy. Real tactics groomers use every day.
Build a profitable mobile dog grooming business with this complete business plan guide — covering pricing, routes, equipment, and client acquisition.