What should I tell a dog groomer before an appointment?

Tell them about allergies, medication, medical or skin conditions, product reactions, previous grooming experiences, nervous behaviour, bite history, areas your dog dislikes being touched and how they cope with clippers, dryers and nail handling. Give an emergency contact and your vet's details too.

Should I tell a groomer that my dog may bite?

Yes. Be direct about any growling, snapping or biting and what tends to trigger it. This is not about labelling your dog; it helps the groomer choose safer handling, allow more time or explain when a veterinary groom would be more appropriate.

Do dog groomers need vaccination records in the UK?

Policies vary. Some groomers ask for current vaccination details, while others do not. Ask the individual business what proof it needs before the appointment rather than assuming a photo or paper card will be accepted.

Should I feed my dog before grooming?

Follow your groomer's instructions. Avoid an unusually large meal immediately before the visit, make sure your dog has had a toilet break, and tell the groomer about any feeding needs or treats your dog cannot have.

Guide · Grooming

Dog grooming checklist: what to tell your groomer

A good groom starts before the bath. Sharing the details that affect handling, products and safety helps a groomer understand your individual dog without making you complete the same long form every visit.

Last reviewed: 30 September 2026

In short

Before the appointment, share your dog's allergies, medication, health and skin conditions, product reactions, nervous triggers, bite history, touch-sensitive areas and tolerance of clippers, dryers, paws and nails. Add your preferred cut, emergency contact and vet details. Never play down behaviour that could affect safe handling.

What your dog groomer needs to know

Give the groomer a clear, honest picture in these five areas:

Health: allergies, medication, medical conditions, recent surgery or illness, mobility limits and your vet's details.
Skin and products: sore areas, lumps, ear trouble, sensitive skin and any shampoo or product that has caused a reaction.
Behaviour: nervous or anxious behaviour, bite or snap history, known triggers and signs that your dog is becoming overwhelmed.
Handling: areas they dislike being touched and how they manage paws, nails, face, ears, clippers, dryers and being lifted.
Contacts: the person who can make decisions during the appointment and an alternative emergency contact.

If something may affect safety, say it plainly. A groomer can plan around information they have; they cannot plan around a surprise.

Describe the groom you want — without guesswork

Explain what matters in everyday language: shorter for muddy walks, keep the ears long, tidy the feet, or leave the tail full. A recent photo of your own dog after a groom you liked is more useful than a highly styled breed photo that may not match their coat.

Mention matting before the appointment. Removing tight mats can limit the finish that is safely possible, so ask the groomer to explain the options for your dog's welfare and comfort.

What to bring to a dog grooming appointment

A secure collar or harness and lead
Any records the groomer specifically requested, such as vaccination evidence
Essential medication or prescribed products only when agreed in advance
A photo showing a previous groom you liked, if you have one
Your groomer summary as a link or QR code, so details are readable and current

Check the business's own policy before attending; requirements differ between groomers.

A calmer appointment-day checklist

Give your dog time for a toilet break before arrival.
Arrive at the agreed time and allow a few minutes for a handover.
Keep your phone available in case the groomer needs consent or early collection.
Tell them about anything new since booking: illness, injury, medication or behaviour.
Agree how and when your dog will be collected to reduce waiting and excitement.

This guide is general preparation advice. Follow your groomer's policies and speak to your vet about medical concerns or whether grooming is appropriate for an unwell dog.

Common questions

What should I tell a dog groomer before an appointment?: Tell them about allergies, medication, medical or skin conditions, product reactions, previous grooming experiences, nervous behaviour, bite history, areas your dog dislikes being touched and how they cope with clippers, dryers and nail handling. Give an emergency contact and your vet's details too.
Should I tell a groomer that my dog may bite?: Yes. Be direct about any growling, snapping or biting and what tends to trigger it. This is not about labelling your dog; it helps the groomer choose safer handling, allow more time or explain when a veterinary groom would be more appropriate.
Do dog groomers need vaccination records in the UK?: Policies vary. Some groomers ask for current vaccination details, while others do not. Ask the individual business what proof it needs before the appointment rather than assuming a photo or paper card will be accepted.
Should I feed my dog before grooming?: Follow your groomer's instructions. Avoid an unusually large meal immediately before the visit, make sure your dog has had a toilet break, and tell the groomer about any feeding needs or treats your dog cannot have.

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