Dog grooming is important for the overall health and wellbeing of the animal. In today’s society we have a wide choice of grooming parlours, but this was not always the case. This article explores the origins of Dog Grooming and Grooming Parlours, as well as why they are becoming increasingly popular.

A History of Dog Grooming

In the past, dogs have worked for humans, even travelling the globe as part of circuses or other attractions. But at which point did man move from using them as working animals in their many forms to an object to be pampered and maintained to the level that humans were? The answer can be found in artwork dating from the fourteenth century onwards, depicting clean and groomed small dogs sitting comfortably next to their female owners in Court. Others exhibit small dogs perched upon chairs and couches, their exteriors as well turned out as their human owners.

It is the Elizabethan era that actually shows some proof of the first incidences of actual dog grooming. Although the methods and techniques themselves are not depicted, the effects of the grooming process are undeniable; coats trimmed and clean and looking shiny and well cared-for. It is possible that shearers and dog groomers would work in the local marketplace, attending to the needs of their customers' animals. One picture has even been found depicting a shearer trimming a dog's fur whilst it is perched in its owner's lap.

Records show that grooming parlours began to trade legally under the Royal warrant during the rule of King Louis XV, the owners of which would pay the king for their licenses to trade as groomers.

During the Renaissance period, dogs that were owned by the aristocratic classes frequently wore the same opulent fashions of bows, ribbons, rosettes and sashes as their masters.

By the time the 21st Century approached, it became apparent that dog styling was no longer solely a concept for the wealthy, but it was now seen as a perfectly normal way of expressing love, care and affection for companion dogs.

Grooming Parlours

The basis of today’s dog grooming parlours and salons originate from the marketplaces and palaces of the past. The dog grooming salons of today are thriving more than in previous eras due to the sheer range of services available. Even kennels now have the facilities to offer a grooming service, and can offer to return a dog that is freshly cleaned, groomed and pleasantly scented.

Another section of the pet industry to realise the true utility of dog grooming services are veterinarians, enabling owners to collect their pets post-treatment clean and fresh. Vets are not the only sector to cash in on dog grooming – it is possible to get your dog groomed at many pet shops and some major retailers.

Dog grooming parlours have not always been so accessible and customer-friendly, however. Pre-1940s, the only choice for a customer was a 'dog barbershop'. These would usually be very small and consist of cages and a table, without the added convenience of blow dryers or pedestals and occasionally featuring potentially hazardous cage-driers. Often, the barbershops would become dangerously over-heated due to excessive drying and no air-conditioning. Without the use of modern electrical implements, the actual grooming process itself was extremely arduous. Some of these rather outdated establishments still exist, although they are being greatly challenged by new salons providing a wider range of services.

The post 1940s saw the introduction of new custom-built implements. The 1950s themselves caused the first major surge in dogs being used as domestic pets rather than functional, working animals.

Today, the pet industry is huge and continuing to grow, therefore strengthening dog grooming as a valid and lucrative profession to practice. Over a period of many centuries, we have seen the dog evolve into the important figure it is today. Multitudes of dogs across the globe represent an integral and valued part of the family unit, which is reflected in the fact that at this point in time, more humans have dogs as pets than ever before. Our tolerance for the health and grooming needs of specific breeds of dog has increased dramatically, allowing high maintenance breeds such as Shih-Tzu and Chihuahua to become extremely popular.

As mankind’s bank balance has increased, leading to surplus available funds, the trend for the beautification of both humans and pets has steadily increased giving cause for far more beauticians to be needed in the profession to cater for the rising need of both species.

This article has been put together by the distance learning organisation Start Learning who are experts in home study.