How to check a groomer is experienced with your breed

A groomer with real experience in your breed's specific needs will handle coat type, temperament, and health quirks that others might miss or rush through. A Boerboel needs different handling than a Poodle; a Shih Tzu's matting challenges are nothing like a Labrador's. Finding someone who actually knows what they're doing with *your* dog means better outcomes, fewer salon injuries, and a pet that arrives home looking right.

Ask directly about their breed portfolio

Start with a straightforward question: "How many dogs of my breed have you groomed?" A vague answer—"Oh, I've done lots"—should make you pause. Someone with genuine breed experience will be able to talk specifics: typical coat challenges, temperament patterns, and how they adjust their technique. If they groom show dogs or frequently work with your breed, they'll usually volunteer that detail unprompted.

For less common breeds or mixes, ask whether they've groomed something similar and what they learned from it. A groomer who says "I haven't done a Rhodesian Ridgeback, but I've groomed several sighthounds and I'll research your breed's standard" is showing honest competence, not bluffing.

Request references from owners of your breed. When you call them, ask: Did the groomer seem confident with the coat type? Were there any surprises or problems? How did they handle any behaviour quirks? References from people with the same breed—or a very similar one—carry far more weight than generic praise. You're looking for people who say "They really knew what they were doing" or "They explained why they did X for our breed," not just "Our dog looked great."

Check their qualifications and credentials

Professional grooming bodies in South Africa—ask if they're registered with relevant bodies and request to see certificates or membership details. A groomer who's completed formal breed-specific training, attended workshops, or studied breed standards has invested in understanding detail. This doesn't guarantee perfection, but it shows they take the work seriously.

If they're affiliated with breed clubs or show communities, that's another signal. Breed enthusiasts hold each other to higher standards. You can also ask whether they follow the breed standard for grooming or if they'll adapt it to your preferences (many owners want pet trims rather than show cuts). A groomer who discusses the difference knows the distinction.

Watch how they talk about your dog's coat and temperament

During your initial chat—whether WhatsApp, phone, or in person—pay attention to how they describe what your breed needs. Do they mention:

• Coat-specific care (double-coated breeds need different drying; curly coats mat faster)
• Breed-typical behaviour (some breeds are naturally anxious; others are stoic or stubborn)
• Health considerations (brachycephalic breeds can't be dried in high heat; some breeds have skin sensitivities)
• Grooming frequency and maintenance between appointments

If they ask *you* questions—"How's your dog's coat at home? Any matting? Is he reactive on the table?"—they're gathering information to do the job right. A groomer who just listens and nods, or launches into a standard pitch, may not be tailoring their approach to breed-specific needs.

Set up a short first visit if you're unsure. Watch how the groomer handles your dog, whether they read the dog's body language, and how they explain what they're about to do. Confidence paired with care—not speed or dismissal—suggests real experience. You'll often know within the first few minutes whether this person has groomed your breed before.

Finding a groomer who truly understands your breed's coat, build, and temperament makes the whole experience smoother. You'll spot experienced breeders and handlers by the way they talk and work. When you're ready to book, Strove's verified pet groomers include their experience details in their profiles—you can filter by breed and read what other owners of that breed have said.