How To Prepare a Home Dog Grooming Set Up - Sniffin' Around Skip to main content

Updated 2025.

  • The initial investment for putting together your home dog grooming set up will likely fall somewhere between USD $100 to $500+ – depending on the equipment, tools, and other items you choose to buy for your business.
  • Some must-have tools + supplies for any home grooming station include: a groomer’s table, a grooming arm and loop, dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner, brushes and combs, clippers and scissors, nail trimmers, ear cleaning tools, towels, and treats.
  • Specialty dog grooming items to consider investing in are: ear plucking forceps, medicated shampoos and conditioners, paw balm, a professional hair dryer, dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste, dematting spray, and dog-friendly cologne and spray.
  • You should also invest in groomer apparel, like a groomer’s smock, gloves, proper shoes, dog hammocks, and an anti-fatigue mat.
  • 4 tips for organizing your at-home dog grooming station are: keep frequently used items in reach, store towels where they can be easily grabbed, keep tools nearby, and invest in storage containers.
  • You can reflect your brand in your home dog grooming set up by aligning your brand’s color scheme in your set up, including branded materials, and making sure the space always remains clean and inviting.
  • 3 essential cleaning supplies to always have in stock are cleaning wipes, a mop and bucket, and a vacuum cleaner.
  • Groomer’s lung (the inhalation of airborne particles that can lead to respiratory problems) is a serious occupational hazard of being a dog groomer. You can help prevent it by keeping your grooming space well-ventilated, wearing a mask while grooming, and investing in an air purifier.
  • Be sure to check with your local government to find out whether or not a planning permission is needed to run your home grooming business.
  • 3 ways you can DIY your own home grooming station are: use an old table or desk, use a kitchen sink, or use your bathtub.
  • Critical mistakes to avoid are: not investing in professional equipment or good lighting, using old/damaged equipment, not having the proper supplies or taking the time to set up, not cleaning your work station properly, and not knowing how to use your tools/equipment correctly.
Home dog grooming set up in-post image 1

Introduction

Starting a dog grooming business from home can be a great way to make money and have a flexible schedule. That said, there are some things you need to know before getting started. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to prepare a home dog grooming set up.

In particular, we’ll discuss the tools and supplies you’ll need, as well as some tips for keeping your station organized and efficient. Additionally, we’ll reveal 8 critical errors you’ll need to avoid making!

Keep reading to learn how to prepare your very own at home dog grooming set up!

How To Set Up a Dog Grooming Station At Home: The Cost

Setting up a dog grooming station at home can be a cost-effective alternative to renting and operating your business out of a commercial space – but it’s crucial to budget appropriately!

The initial investment may range anywhere from USD $100 to $500 or more, depending on the quality of the tools and equipment you purchase. Essential items (like grooming scissors, clippers, combs, brushes, and nail trimmers) can vary widely in price. Additionally, some specialty tools – such as dematting combs or deshedding tools – might add to the overall expenses, should you choose to invest in them as well.

Another significant factor contributing to the cost is the grooming table and dryer. Prices for grooming tables can range from $50 for a basic model to over $300 for a professional-grade one. Similarly, a grooming dryer designed specifically for pets can cost between $30 and $150, depending on the brand and features. While these might seem like substantial costs upfront, they quickly pay off in the long run once you begin booking your clients!

Lastly, don’t forget about recurring costs like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and pet-safe cleaning supplies to maintain a hygienic station. To provide your clients with options and variety, as well as allow you the option of working with as many breeds as possible, you’ll want to invest in a variety of different shampoos and conditioners. Expect to spend at least $100 on these products initially, with ongoing costs depending on the frequency of use.

First Steps

When setting up your home dog grooming station, the first step is to choose a dedicated space. This can be a spare room, a corner of the basement, or even a small closet. The important thing is that you have enough room to set up all of your supplies and move around easily with your dog.

At Home Grooming Station Must-Have Tools and Supplies

Once you’ve chosen your space, it’s time to start gathering supplies. Here is a list of essential items you’ll need for your home dog grooming station:

  • Groomer’s table: This is where you’ll do all the actual grooming. Look for a table that is adjustable so you can groom dogs of different sizes comfortably.
  • Grooming arm and loop: This attaches to the groomer’s table and is used to secure the dog while you groom them.
  • Shampoo: Choose a quality dog shampoo that is gentle on the skin and won’t irritate the eyes.
  • Conditioner: This is optional, but can be helpful for dogs with long coats or sensitive skin.
  • Brushes: You’ll need a variety of brushes, including a slicker brush, pin brush, and shedding blade.
  • Combs: Again, you’ll need a variety of combs, including a wide-toothed comb and a flea comb.
  • Clippers and scissors: You’ll need these to trim the hair around the face, feet, and anus as well as to do any general body clipping.
  • Nail trimmers: You’ll need these to trim the nails. Make sure to get a good quality pair that is comfortable to use.
  • Ear cleaner and cotton balls: These will be used to clean the dog’s ears during the grooming process.
  • Towels: You’ll need several towels of different sizes to dry the dog off after bathing and clip any excess hair.
  • Treats: These will be your #1 friend when it comes to positively rewarding the dog throughout the grooming process.

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Recommendations For Tools and Supplies

Groomer’s Table

The master equipment grooming table is a popular option that is adjustable and features a built-in arm and loop. Wayfair sells one for just under CAD $250 (just ensure that the quality doesn’t suffer due to the price!). Alternatively, Walmart sells a master equipment electric grooming table for USD around $1250.

Shampoo and Conditioner

The Virbac Epi-Soothe Shampoo is a great option that’s gentle, won’t irritate the eyes, and is especially favored for dogs with sensitive skin. You can find it on Chewy for USD $14.96. In terms of conditioner, CHI Gentle 2 in 1 Dog Shampoo & Conditioner is both a shampoo and conditioner, and ranked Chewy’s #1 customer-rated conditioner. Their 16-fl oz bottle is available on their website for USD $16.99.

Brushes

We recommend checking out Dogster’s list of Top 10 dog grooming brushes (2025 edition)!

Combs

The Andis Pet 7.5-Inch Steel Comb is a good option that comes with a flea comb. Chewy currently sells it for USD $9.11, and Amazon also sells it for the same price, too.

Clippers and Scissors

The Wahl Professional Animal Arco Cordless Pet Clipper Kit is a popular option that comes with a variety of attachments. Wahl Pro sells this fan favorite on their website for USD $172.99. For scissors, check out this article on ABK Grooming’s Top 5 scissors every groomer should have!

Nail Trimmers

Epica Pet Nail Clippers is a popular option that’s comfortable to use. Find it on Amazon for just USD $12.45. If you prefer using a dremel, then we recommend the Dremel PawControl 7760-PGK Dog Nail Grinder and Trimmer, available on Amazon for USD $59.27.

Ear Cleaner

The Zymox ear cleanser is a popular option that is gentle and effective. Off Zymox’s website, prices range from USD $18.39 to $36.80, depending on the type of cleanser you get and the quantity. Moreover, their website provides a reference chart to help you determine which cleanser to buy, according to your business’s needs!

Towels

The Utopia towels are a popular option that come in a variety of sizes. If you order off their website, price will range from USD $1.78 per salon towel to USD $17.02 per premium towel. Alternately, you can narrow your search, specifically shop their variety of bath towels, and pay anywhere from USD $5.22 to $10.44 per towel.

Treats

Specialty Dog Grooming Items

In addition to the tools and supplies listed above, there are also some specialty dog grooming items that you may want to consider investing in. These include things like:

  • Ear plucking forceps: This is a tool that is used to remove excess hair from the ear canal. It can be found on Amazon for USD $7.95.
  • Medicated shampoos and conditioners: These are products that are used to treat skin conditions. Prices typically range from USD $13.99 to $59.99.
  • Paw balm: Used to help moisturize and soothe rough and/or cracked paw pads, we recommend checking out My Spruce Pets’ list of the 9 best paw balms for dogs.
  • Dog Hair Dryer: It’s recommended that on dogs, professional groomers use more than a regular hair dryer meant for human heads. Instead, equip your at home dog grooming set up with the Shelandy Pet Hair Force Dryer (available for just USD $79.50 on Walmart’s website)!
  • Dog-Friendly Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Check out PetMD’s list of the 9 best dog toothbrushes (and other dental tools) of 2025.
  • Dematting Spray: Used to help get out all those unwanted tangles. Love Groomers sells a wide variety of dematting sprays at affordable prices.
  • Pet Colognes and Sprays: Used at the end of a groom to help your client’s dog smell their best! Make sure to check out Amazon’s Bestsellers List for dog colognes and sprays.

Dog Grooming Apparel

Finally, you’ll also need to invest in some dog grooming apparel for yourself. This includes things like:

  • Groomer’s smock: This is a type of apron that you wear while grooming the dog. Prices typically range from $19.99 to $49.99. You can find a wide assortment of groomer aprons and smocks through brands such as Ladybird Line.
  • Grooming gloves: These are gloves that you wear while grooming the dog. Prices typically range from $14.99 to $24.99. Check out this article by BuzzFeed for Amazon’s top-selling grooming glove reviews!
  • Booties: These are shoes that you wear while grooming the dog. Prices typically range from $19.99 to $39.99. MoeGo has an awesome blog post about the Top 5 best shoes for dog grooming professionals.
  • Hammocks: These are used to help keep the dog in place (and prevent them from sitting) while you groom them. Prices range on Amazon from USD $23.00 to $175.00. Dogster has an article that breaks down their 9 highest recommended hammocks.
  • Anti-fatigue mats: These are mats that you stand on while grooming the dog. Specifically, they’ll help prevent injury to your knees, hips, feet, back, and joints during those long, busy days. Prices typically range from $29.99 to $79.99. PetEdge, for example, sells a top performance anti-fatigue mat for just USD $49.99!

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Home Dog Grooming Set Up: Building Your Station

Now that you have all of your supplies, it’s time to start setting up your station! Here are some tips for organizing everything:

  • Keep frequently used items within reach: This includes things like shampoo, conditioner, brushes, combs, clippers, and scissors.
  • Store towels in a place where they can be easily grabbed: This could be a basket or a shelf near the bathing area.
  • Keep nail trimmers, ear cleaner, and cotton balls close to the grooming table: This will make it easy to grab them when you need them.
  • Invest in some storage containers: This will help you keep everything organized and tidy.

Reflecting Your Brand in Your Home Dog Grooming Station

As you’re setting up your home dog grooming station, it’s important to keep your brand in mind. After all, this is an extension of your professional business! Here are some things to consider:

  • Choose a color scheme that reflects your brand: This could be the colors of your logo or website.
  • Include branded materials: This could be things like your business cards, appointment cards, price list, etc.
  • Make sure the space is clean and inviting: This will help put your clients at ease and make them want to come back!
Home dog grooming set up in-post image 2

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Speaking of keeping your home dog grooming set up clean, you’ll need to invest in some essential cleaning supplies to help disinfect your work space before and after every appointment. Here are some things you’ll need:

  • Cleaning wipes: These are great for quickly cleaning up any spills or messes. Prices typically range from $11.99 to $39.99.
  • Mop and bucket: This is used for mopping the floor after each grooming session. Prices typically range from $24.99 to $79.99.
  • Vacuum cleaner: This is used for vacuuming the floor after each grooming session. Prices typically range from $59.99 to $399.99.

Cleaning supplies are an important part of keeping your home dog grooming set up clean and professional. So, be sure to stock up on everything you need so you can keep your space looking its best!

Tips For Preventing Groomers Lung

Now that you have your home dog grooming set up all set, there are a few things you can do to help prevent groomers lung. If you’re unfamiliar with this term, it basically refers to the inhalation of airborne particles that can lead to respiratory problems. Here are some tips for preventing it:

  1. Be sure to always groom in a well-ventilated area! This could be outdoors or in a room with the windows open.
  2. Wear a mask while grooming to help filter out any harmful particles.
  3. Invest in an air purifier to help keep the air clean. Prices for air purifiers tend to range from USD $49.99 to $399.99.

By following these 3 simple tips, you can help prevent groomers lung and keep yourself healthy while you work!

Pro Tip: Learn more about groomer’s lung here.

Planning Permission For Dog Grooming From Home

This refers to the permission you need from your local government in order to use your property for business purposes. In most cases, planning permission is not required as long as the business is run from a residential property and there are no external changes made to the property. However, it’s always best to check with your local government just to be sure. They will be able to tell you if you need planning permission or not.

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How To DIY Your Own Home Dog Grooming Station

If you’re not ready to invest in a professional home dog grooming set up just yet, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways you can DIY your own station. Here are a few ideas:

  • Use an old table or desk: This can be repurposed into a grooming table with the addition of a nonslip mat.
  • Use a kitchen sink: If you don’t have a lot of space, you can easily groom your dog in your kitchen sink. Just be sure to put down a nonslip mat first!
  • Set up a temporary station in your bathtub: This is great for dogs who don’t mind getting wet. Just be sure to put down a nonslip mat and have all of your supplies within reach.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to set up a home dog grooming station without spending a lot of money. So, if you’re on a budget, don’t worry! You can still create a professional looking space.

8 Mistakes To Avoid When Setting Up Your Home Dog Grooming Space

Mistake #1: Not investing in professional equipment!

This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Yes, as we mentioned above, there are some budget-friendly DIY hacks you can make use of. However, if you’re serious about running a professional dog grooming business, you’ll need to invest in some professional equipment. Using equipment that isn’t up to standard can make your job more difficult, as well as put your clients’ dogs at risk.

Mistake #2: Not having enough space!

This is especially important if you plan on grooming more than one dog at a time. You’ll need to have enough space for each dog to move around comfortably, as well as for all of your equipment.

Mistake #3: Not investing in good lighting!

In order to do a good job, you’ll need to be able to see what you’re doing. Natural light is always best, but if you’re working in a room without any windows, you’ll need to make sure you have some good artificial lighting set up.

Mistake #4: Using old or damaged equipment!

This is another mistake that can put your dog at risk. As such, be sure to only use equipment that’s in good condition and is up-to-date.

Mistake #5: Not having the proper supplies!

This includes things like shampoo, conditioner, towels, and more. So, be sure to have everything you need so you can groom your dog properly.

Mistake #6: Not taking the time to set up!

This is a mistake that many people make; they think they can just wing it and it’ll all work out. But, in reality, taking the time to set up your station properly is crucial.

Mistake #7: Not cleaning up your work station regularly or properly!

This is important for both hygiene reasons and to keep your equipment in good condition. Be sure to clean up your station after each use, as well as giving it a deep clean on a regular basis.

Mistake #8: Not knowing how to use equipment/tools correctly!

This is especially important if you’re using any type of power tool, such as clippers. Likewise, not knowing how to properly work with heat tools – like a blow dryer – can also be dangerous. If you’re not sure how to use a certain tool, be sure to ask someone who does or look up a tutorial online. Furthermore, always be sure to read the instructions carefully, so you can operate all of your tools correctly!

Home dog grooming set up in-post image 3

Conclusion

There you have it – now you know how to set up a home dog grooming station like a pro. Just remember to avoid the mistakes we listed above, and you’ll be well on your way to success. Do YOU have any tips for setting up a home dog grooming station? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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Author

  • Sarah Cavanaugh QC author

    Sarah Cavanagh is a seasoned writer with more than 20 years of experience and a background in English Literature. She has been part of the QC team since 2019, where she manages social media and crafts blog content across multiple schools. When she’s not working, you can find her writing her debut horror/romance novel, Hollowed Ground.

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