Understanding Your Local Market

Before you set up shop, you need to know what you are walking into.

Research these:

• How many groomers are in your area? Search Google Maps for "dog grooming near me" and count. Note their ratings, prices, and reviews.
• What do they charge? Call 5-10 local groomers and ask for pricing on a standard poodle groom and a basic bath for a lab. This gives you your market range.
• What are clients complaining about? Read Google and Yelp reviews of competitors. Common complaints equal your opportunity.
• What is the demand? Check how far out local groomers are booked. If everyone is 3-4 weeks out, there is room for you.

Demographics matter: Neighborhoods with higher incomes and lots of doodle and poodle mixes will pay premium prices. Areas with mostly large, short-haired breeds tend to be more price-sensitive.

Do not skip this step. Twenty minutes of research can save you months of frustration.