5 Best Dog Grooming Books for Professional Groomers

Best Dog Grooming Books

As a leading dog grooming school, we understand the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with the latest techniques in canine care. These best dog grooming books are not only essential resources for our students but also indispensable guides for professional groomers looking to refine their skills and deepen their knowledge.

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Our Best Dog Grooming Books List

    We chose this specific set of dog grooming books because they collectively cover all essential aspects of grooming and related topics that are vital for a well-rounded education in dog grooming. Each book brings a unique perspective and valuable information, from breed-specific grooming techniques to stress-free handling and business management.

    By incorporating these books into our curriculum, we ensure that our students receive comprehensive training that not only focuses on grooming skills but also emphasizes compassionate care, breed knowledge, and business acumen essential for success in the grooming industry. These books align perfectly with our commitment to providing a holistic education that prepares our students for fulfilling and prosperous careers as professional dog groomers.

    1. Notes from the Grooming Table

    Notes from the Grooming Table by Melissa Verplank is a masterpiece in the world of dog grooming literature. This comprehensive guide covers everything from basic grooming techniques to advanced styling tips. It's like having a seasoned mentor by your side, guiding you through each step with clarity and precision. The detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions make it a must-have for any aspiring groomer.

    At our school, we highly recommend this book due to its detailed illustrations and thorough explanations. It's an invaluable resource for mastering breed-specific grooming styles and techniques. We often refer students to this book for its practical approach and wealth of information.

    DGR173_LRG_1__76078

    2. Theory of 5

    The Theory of 5 by Melissa Verplank simplifies grooming concepts into five core areas, making it accessible and practical for groomers at any level. This book emphasizes efficiency and effectiveness in grooming practices, ensuring that every grooming session is optimized for both the groomer and the dog. Its straightforward approach and actionable advice make it an invaluable resource.

    We integrate the principles from Theory of 5 into our curriculum to teach students a structured and systematic grooming process. Verplank's approach streamlines grooming tasks and ensures that our students can work confidently and skillfully with every dog they encounter.

    DGR176_LRG_1__20857

    3. AKC The New Complete Dog Book

    The AKC The New Complete Dog Book is a staple in any dog lover's library. While not solely focused on grooming, this authoritative guide provides essential breed-specific information that's invaluable for groomers. Understanding different breeds and their unique characteristics is crucial for tailoring grooming techniques. This book is an indispensable reference for groomers seeking a holistic understanding of dogs.

    Understanding breed characteristics is fundamental in dog grooming. We encourage students to utilize this book to learn about coat types, grooming requirements, and breed-specific behaviors. It's a must-have for anyone serious about grooming diverse breeds.

    DEG182_LRG_1__05572

    4. Cooperative Care: Seven Steps to Stress-Free Husbandry

    In Cooperative Care, author Deborah Jones presents a revolutionary approach to husbandry and grooming that emphasizes building trust and cooperation with dogs. This book goes beyond grooming techniques to address the emotional well-being of dogs during grooming sessions. It's a game-changer for groomers looking to create positive experiences for their canine clients and enhance their overall well-being.

    This book aligns perfectly with our philosophy of compassionate grooming. We emphasize the principles from Cooperative Care to teach students gentle handling techniques and how to create a calm environment during grooming sessions.

    DN401_LRG_1__09035

    5. Six-Figure Pet Business

    While not solely focused on grooming, Six-Figure Pet Business by Kristin Morrison is an important resource for groomers aiming to build a successful grooming business. This book offers practical advice on marketing, client management, and business growth strategies specific to the pet care industry. It's a must-read for groomers looking to unleash the full potential of their grooming ventures.

    We recommend this book to students interested in starting their own grooming businesses. It offers practical advice on business development, client acquisition, and financial management. Understanding the business side is crucial for long-term success in the grooming industry.

    DKN145EBK_c__29295

    Transitioning between different grooming tasks and handling various dog temperaments can be challenging. However, armed with knowledge from these top grooming books, our students gain the confidence and skills needed to excel in their grooming careers. Each of these books offers a unique perspective and invaluable insights into the art and science of dog grooming.

    Investing in quality dog grooming books is an investment in your grooming career. These books serve as trusted companions, guiding you through the intricacies of grooming techniques, canine behavior, and business management. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned professional, these resources will elevate your grooming skills and empower you to provide exceptional care for your furry clients. Happy grooming!

    Joseph Schifano Author HeadshotAuthor - Joseph Schifano

    Joseph Schifano is the owner and President of The Academy of Pet Careers. With over 20 years of experience working in the pet field, managing large scale pet care businesses, he has experience in every facet of the industry. Joseph's focus is primarily on the business of pet care but his passion is in understanding animal behavior how a dog's brain works so we can improve the care we provide as pet professionals. He is a huge advocate for Pet Empowerment and Force Free training methods. Read more in Joseph's full bio.