Have you decided you would like to open a mobile dog grooming business, but you’re not even sure where to start? We understand exactly how you feel. Opening a business is not easy. You have to follow certain steps, have extreme dedication, and do a ton of research. 

We will discuss the main steps with you briefly, but it is ultimately up to you to make your mobile grooming business successful. And, of course, we wish you the best of luck!

Do Some Planning for Your Mobile Dog Grooming Company

Before you even do anything else, do some planning first. This is key for any leader or entrepreneur. Planning prior to starting your business will reduce the stress you feel once you begin. Create a document and ask yourself the following questions:

• What are the startup costs going to be?
• What ongoing costs will I have?
• Who is your target market? What services are you going to offer?
• How long will it take for you to not be in the negative (research projections for this question)?
• What’s your business name and is it catchy enough to gain attention?

The Cost of Start-Up

We wanted to give you an idea of what you will need to start your mobile grooming company. Keep in mind, the start-up costs are much higher than your on-going costs (or should be). 

Since you are going to be a mobile groomer, what do you need first? Of course, a mobile grooming vehicle, right? The following options for your vehicle are generally necessary to be successful in this business:

• Power generator
• Water heater
• Water tank 
• Waste containers (both solid and liquid)
• Proper lighting
• Washing space
• Grooming table
• Proper ventilation and flooring
• Sink for bathing
• Dryer

Mobile Dog Grooming: Accessory Costs

As far as the start-up items for grooming, you’re likely looking at the following: 

• Clippers 
• Clipper blades 
• Shears
• Brushes and combs 

You must have, at minimum, the supplies mentioned above. If you really want to impress, you should also have a variety of other tools, shampoos, and conditioners. 

Mobile Dog Grooming: What are the Ongoing Expenses?

This is one of the best pros about mobile dog grooming. Once you get started, your expenses go way down. The start-up costs are what you need to focus on; the rest you can handle. Simply to give you an idea, ongoing costs may include:

• Vehicle maintenance 
• Fuel.
• Equipment maintenance
• Supplies
• Marketing 
• Payroll/Taxes

Don't forget to do your research! There is much more to learn if you are considering or already have opened a mobile grooming company!

Best of luck to you all!