Start-up costs vary by the type of business you start. You will need to take into account whether you plan to run a mobile grooming business or whether you will need to rent a space for your operation.

DIY Mobile Conversion

Mobile grooming requires that you buy a grooming van or trailer. Many new ones are available to customize from Hanvey Specialty Engineering or Wagontails. These new rigs vary in price according to which options you want. If you are the handy sort or know someone who is, you can convert an RV into a grooming vehicle or grooming trailer to save some money. Sometimes you can find used grooming vans for sale that can help you get started. There are even companies with an entire fleet of grooming vans that employ mobile groomers.

Renting a Space

If you rent a retail space, you need to figure out how much you can afford for monthly rent and utilities. You will also need to take into account location and the space itself. Some spaces may need remodeling, such as plumbing, and you will need to install equipment, cages, and grooming stations.

Home-Based Business

The same goes for establishing a home-based grooming shop. First, you need to check with your local city ordinances to see if they will allow you to have a business in your home. Some cities may require your business to be in a detached building such as a garage, and others stipulate that it must be attached to your residence. Some cities have little in the way of restrictions; others won't allow it at all. Contact your city hall for information.

If you are able to have a home business, you may need to get a zoning variance or have your neighbors sign a release that says, in effect, they won't mind if you're conducting a business like this in their neighborhood. Most neighbors fear barking dogs, cars coming in and out at odd hours, or odors from many dogs on the premises. If you talk with your neighbors and explain to them what hours you'll be working and the number of dogs you expect to groom per day, that should allay their fears. In fact, you may find your neighbors are anxious to be your first clients.

Equipment Expenses

If you are going to do business, then you must buy decent equipment that is kind to your body and ensures you can have a long career. Cutting corners on equipment will frustrate you and make your job harder.

You need a shower or raised tub for bathing. Make sure it's at a height that works for you, or you can sit on a low stool to bathe them in a shower to save your back.

A hydraulic or electric table that goes up and down is essential for putting heavy dogs on the table. Lifting a very heavy dog can put you out of work for weeks if you don't do it right or if the dog is too heavy. Protect your back; it's the only one you have.

A good high-velocity dryer is essential. The best ones will run $300–$600 and up. Of course, you will need clippers, blades, and shears that each start out at about $100 and up. Each blade set will run $15–$30, and there are several sizes you will need. Shears have to fit your hands, and decent ones can run from $50–$250.

There are bathing systems with a recirculating washing system that uses just a tablespoon of your favorite shampoo to completely wash the dog, powering out dirt that is deep down in the coat and removing shedding hair. Hydrosurge is one brand, and Hanvey Specialty Engineering makes one called the Bathing Beauty. Once you use one of these systems, you'll never go back to hand scrubbing a dog the old-fashioned way.

Each gallon of shampoo may run $20–$30 and up. The same applies to conditioner, and you'll find you need several types for different skin and coat types.