In-Depth Analysis of Pet Grooming Services Market in United States for 2024

The pet grooming services market in the United States is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing pet ownership and the rising trend of treating pets as family members. In 2024, the global pet grooming market is estimated at $28.78 billion, with the U.S. contributing significantly to this figure. The U.S. market size was valued at $2.06 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is fueled by heightened consumer spending on pet care, advancements in service offerings, and the cultural shift toward pet humanization. Core competitors such as PetSmart and Petco dominate the market, while emerging players like mobile grooming services are gaining traction. Opportunities lie in expanding service portfolios, targeting niche segments, and leveraging technological advancements to meet evolving consumer preferences.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is a significant contributor to the global industry, with a market size estimated at $2.06 billion in 2024. This figure is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2025 to 2030, reaching $3.12 billion by 2030. The broader U.S. pet grooming and boarding market, valued at $10.22 billion in 2023, is projected to expand to $15.80 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 7.54%. This growth is driven by the increasing number of pet owners, particularly millennials and Generation Z, who prioritize pet health and aesthetics. In 2022, U.S. pet owners spent $136.8 billion on their pets, with a significant portion allocated to grooming services. The rising demand for premium grooming services, such as spa treatments and specialized care, further underscores the market's growth potential.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is highly segmented, reflecting the diverse needs of pet owners and the variety of services offered. Below, we analyze the key segments, compare their characteristics, and evaluate their potential and challenges.

Key Segments

The market is segmented based on Pet Type, Service Type, Mode of Operation, Grooming Frequency, and Grooming Purpose. These segments provide a comprehensive view of the market dynamics and customer preferences.

1. Pet Type:

   • Dogs: The largest segment, driven by higher grooming needs and the prevalence of dog ownership, especially in urban areas5.
   • Cats: The second-largest segment, with grooming services primarily focused on health maintenance rather than aesthetics5.
   • Small Pets (e.g., rabbits, guinea pigs): A niche segment with limited but growing demand5.

2. Service Type:

   • Bathing and Drying: Fundamental services with high demand due to their frequent necessity4.
   • Hair and Skin Care: Includes haircuts, de-shedding, and specialized treatments3.
   • Nail and Paw Care: Essential for pet health and comfort3.
   • Teeth and Oral Care: A growing segment due to increasing awareness of pet dental health5.

3. Mode of Operation:

   • Salon-Based Services: Traditional grooming services offered in physical locations3.
   • Mobile Grooming Services: Gaining popularity due to convenience and personalized care3.

4. Grooming Frequency:

   • Regular (e.g., monthly, bi-weekly): The largest segment, driven by the importance of consistent grooming for pet health5.
   • Occasional (e.g., seasonally, for special events): Growing due to the trend of grooming pets for special occasions5.
   • As Needed (e.g., for shedding, matting): A smaller but essential segment5.

5. Grooming Purpose:

   • Hygiene and Health: The largest segment, reflecting the primary reason pet owners seek grooming services5.
   • Aesthetics and Appearance: Growing due to pet humanization and grooming competitions5.
   • Behavioral Management: A niche segment focused on reducing shedding or scratching5.

Segment Comparison

Analysis of Potential and Challenges

Dogs

• Potential: Dogs dominate the market due to their high grooming needs and the increasing trend of urban dog ownership. This segment offers consistent revenue streams for grooming businesses5.
• Challenges: Competition is intense, and businesses must differentiate through specialized services or premium offerings.

Cats

• Potential: While cats require less frequent grooming, the focus on health maintenance provides opportunities for targeted services like de-shedding and nail care5.
• Challenges: Cat owners may be less willing to spend on grooming compared to dog owners, limiting revenue potential.

Small Pets

• Potential: This niche segment is growing, particularly among owners of exotic pets who seek specialized grooming services5.
• Challenges: Limited demand and the need for specialized knowledge may restrict market growth.

Bathing and Drying

• Potential: High-frequency services ensure steady revenue, making this segment a cornerstone of the grooming industry4.
• Challenges: Low margins due to high competition and the need for efficient operations.

Mobile Grooming

• Potential: The convenience factor appeals to busy urban professionals, driving rapid growth in this segment3.
• Challenges: High operational costs and logistical challenges may limit scalability.

Regular Grooming

• Potential: The largest segment, driven by health-conscious pet owners, offers stable and predictable revenue5.
• Challenges: Requires consistent service quality to retain customers.

Aesthetics and Appearance

• Potential: The growing trend of pet humanization and grooming competitions creates opportunities for premium services5.
• Challenges: High competition and the need for skilled groomers to deliver aesthetic results.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is highly competitive, with a mix of large chains, independent businesses, and niche players offering a wide range of services. The market is dominated by established players like PetSmart and Petco, but smaller companies and mobile grooming services are gaining traction due to their convenience and specialized offerings. Below is an analysis of the key players in the industry, their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

Key Players in the U.S. Pet Grooming Services Market

1. PetSmart LLC

   • Strengths: PetSmart operates over 1,500 locations across the U.S., offering a comprehensive range of grooming services, including bathing, haircuts, and nail trimming. The company has a strong loyalty program and a well-established brand reputation5.
   • Weaknesses: PetSmart has limited focus on mobile grooming services, which are increasingly popular among busy pet owners5.
   • Market Positioning: Dominates the market with its extensive network and diverse service offerings.

2. Petco Animal Supplies Inc.

   • Strengths: Petco operates over 1,500 locations and offers premium grooming services, including specialized treatments for skin and coat health. The company is known for its focus on pet health and wellness5.
   • Weaknesses: Petco's services are often priced higher than those of smaller, independent groomers, which may deter budget-conscious customers5.
   • Market Positioning: Positioned as a premium service provider with a strong emphasis on pet health.

3. Pets At Home Inc.

   • Strengths: Pets At Home is a leading player in the UK market, offering a wide range of grooming services and pet care products. The company is known for its premium grooming packages6.
   • Weaknesses: The company has a limited presence in the U.S., which restricts its market share in the region6.
   • Market Positioning: Focuses on premium grooming services and pet care.

4. Pet Supplies Plus

   • Strengths: Pet Supplies Plus offers affordable grooming services, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious pet owners. The company has a wide range of services, including bathing, haircuts, and nail care3.
   • Weaknesses: The company has a smaller network compared to PetSmart and Petco, which limits its reach3.
   • Market Positioning: Targets budget-conscious pet owners with affordable services.

5. Dogtopia Enterprises

   • Strengths: Dogtopia specializes in daycare and grooming services, catering to busy pet owners who need a one-stop solution for their pets' needs. The company is known for its high-quality grooming services4.
   • Weaknesses: Dogtopia has limited focus on mobile grooming, which is a growing segment in the market4.
   • Market Positioning: Known for its daycare and grooming combo services.

6. Wag Labs Inc.

   • Strengths: Wag Labs offers mobile grooming services and a user-friendly digital platform for booking appointments. The company is known for its convenience and personalized care4.
   • Weaknesses: Wag Labs has a limited physical presence compared to larger chains, which may affect its brand recognition4.
   • Market Positioning: Focuses on mobile and on-demand grooming services.

7. EarthWise Pet

   • Strengths: EarthWise Pet is known for its eco-friendly grooming products and services, appealing to environmentally conscious pet owners8.
   • Weaknesses: The company has a smaller network and higher pricing, which may limit its market reach8.
   • Market Positioning: Targets eco-conscious pet owners with sustainable grooming solutions.

8. The Pooch Mobile

   • Strengths: The Pooch Mobile specializes in mobile grooming services, offering convenience and personalized care to pet owners4.
   • Weaknesses: The company has a limited service range compared to salon-based groomers4.
   • Market Positioning: Focuses on mobile and on-demand grooming services.

9. PetPeople Enterprises LLC

   • Strengths: PetPeople offers natural and organic grooming products, appealing to health-conscious pet owners8.
   • Weaknesses: The company has limited geographic reach, which restricts its market share8.
   • Market Positioning: Targets health-conscious pet owners with organic and natural grooming products.

10. The Groomery by PetSmart

    • Strengths: The Groomery offers high-quality grooming services with a focus on luxury treatments, such as spa treatments and specialized grooming8.
    • Weaknesses: The Groomery's services are priced higher than standard grooming services, which may deter budget-conscious customers8.
    • Market Positioning: Positioned as a premium grooming service provider.

Players Comparison

Analysis of the Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the U.S. pet grooming services market is shaped by the increasing demand for convenience, premium services, and eco-friendly solutions. Large players like PetSmart and Petco dominate the market with their extensive networks and diverse service offerings. However, smaller players are carving out niches by focusing on mobile grooming, eco-friendly products, and specialized treatments.

The rise of mobile grooming services, driven by companies like Wag Labs and The Pooch Mobile, is expected to continue growing as pet owners seek more convenient options. Additionally, the trend toward premium and eco-friendly grooming services is likely to intensify, with companies like EarthWise Pet and PetPeople Enterprises LLC well-positioned to capitalize on this demand.

The market is also witnessing a shift toward value-added services, such as spa treatments and specialized grooming for rare breeds, which cater to the growing trend of pet humanization2. Overall, the competitive landscape is dynamic, with players constantly innovating to meet the evolving needs of pet owners.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key trends. One of the most prominent trends is the rising humanization of pets, where pets are increasingly viewed as family members. This has led to higher spending on premium grooming services, including spa treatments, specialized haircuts, and advanced skin care4. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated pet adoptions, further boosting demand for grooming services as new pet owners sought professional care for their pets1.

Another notable trend is the diversification of service offerings. Grooming services now extend beyond basic bathing and drying to include advanced options such as fur styling, nail trimming, and even pet photography2. Mobile grooming services are also gaining traction, particularly among busy urban professionals who value convenience and personalized care8.

The market is further driven by increasing awareness of pet health and hygiene. Pet owners are prioritizing grooming to prevent skin infections, allergies, and other health issues, leading to higher demand for regular grooming sessions7. These trends are expected to continue shaping the market, with opportunities for businesses to innovate and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

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The U.S. pet grooming services market is primarily driven by millennials and Generation Z, who are more likely to invest in premium grooming services due to their perception of pets as family members4. Approximately 41% of U.S. households own at least one dog, indicating a significant customer base for grooming services10. Additionally, the rising awareness of pet health and hygiene has led to increased spending on professional grooming, with U.S. pet owners spending $136.8 billion on their pets in 20226.

Younger generations are particularly influential in shaping the market. They prioritize their pets' health and appearance, driving demand for high-quality grooming services such as spa treatments and behavioral therapy4. The COVID-19 pandemic also expanded the market, as new pet owners sought professional grooming to maintain their pets' hygiene and well-being2.

The market is segmented by pet type, with dogs dominating due to their higher grooming needs. Cats and small pets represent smaller but growing segments, particularly for health-focused grooming services3. Mobile grooming services are gaining popularity, especially in urban areas, where convenience is a key factor for busy professionals9.

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The decision-making process for pet owners seeking grooming services is heavily influenced by the humanization of pets. Pet owners prioritize their pets' health, hygiene, and appearance, leading them to seek professional grooming services4. The process typically begins with identifying the need for grooming, such as maintaining cleanliness or addressing skin conditions. Pet owners then evaluate service providers based on factors like reputation, service quality, and convenience, often opting for premium services that align with their values4.

Key drivers of purchasing behavior include pet humanization, health and hygiene concerns, and the convenience of service delivery. Pet owners are increasingly willing to spend on premium services, such as organic grooming products and specialized care, to ensure their pets' well-being6. Breed-specific needs also play a significant role, with owners of rare or high-maintenance breeds seeking specialized grooming services2.

Behavioral patterns indicate a shift toward proactive pet care, with regular grooming sessions becoming the norm. Bathing and drying services remain consistently high in demand due to their frequent necessity4. The willingness to spend on premium services is growing, driven by rising disposable income allocated to pet care and the high standards of living in the U.S.10.

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The U.S. pet grooming services market is subject to regulations that ensure animal welfare, industry standards, and consumer protection. Grooming businesses are often required to obtain licenses or permits, which confirm compliance with facility conditions, hygiene standards, and staff training requirements6. Additionally, groomers must adhere to guidelines on humane treatment, such as avoiding excessive restraint and recognizing signs of distress in animals6.

Regulations significantly influence market entry and competition. Licensing requirements and compliance costs can act as barriers to entry for new businesses, limiting competition to established players like Petco and PetSmart4. However, these regulations also enhance consumer trust by ensuring high standards of care and professionalism, which can drive demand for licensed grooming services6.

The regulatory environment presents both risks and opportunities. Compliance costs and operational constraints may pose challenges for smaller businesses, potentially stifling innovation6. On the other hand, regulations create opportunities for businesses that can differentiate themselves through superior compliance and animal welfare practices, attracting discerning pet owners4. The rise of mobile grooming services and e-commerce integration also aligns with regulatory trends, offering new avenues for growth8.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is heavily influenced by macroeconomic indicators, particularly the rising expenditure on pets. In 2022, U.S. pet owners spent $136.8 billion on their companion animals, a significant increase from the $123.6 billion projected in 20216. This growth reflects a strong consumer willingness to allocate discretionary income toward pet care, even during economic fluctuations. The market's resilience is further supported by the humanization of pets, with approximately 5% of U.S. adults willing to invest in premium services like grooming1.

Regional economic variations also play a role in shaping the market. Urban areas with higher disposable incomes and pet ownership rates, such as major metropolitan regions, drive demand for premium grooming services. In contrast, rural areas may see slower adoption due to lower income levels and fewer professional grooming facilities. However, the overall trend of pet humanization and health awareness is consistent across regions, ensuring steady market growth nationwide10.

The pet grooming market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing pet ownership and the rising trend of pet humanization. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for pet grooming services is among the highest in the pet care sector, fueled by consistent demand for services like bathing, haircuts, and nail trimming4. Additionally, the rise in pet-related health issues, such as skin disorders and allergies, has heightened the need for professional grooming services, further boosting market dynamics1.

Economic factors, particularly increased pet expenditure, are driving technological advancements in the pet grooming industry. Companies are investing in advanced grooming tools, eco-friendly products, and digital platforms for booking and customer engagement. For instance, leading players like Petco and PetSmart are integrating technology into their service offerings to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction3. This trend is expected to continue as pet owners seek more convenient and high-quality grooming solutions.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is witnessing a surge in technological adoption, driven by the increasing demand for premium and specialized services. Key trends include the integration of advanced grooming tools, such as high-efficiency dryers and hypoallergenic shampoos, tailored to specific pet breeds and skin conditions2. Additionally, digital platforms and mobile apps are becoming essential for booking appointments, tracking pet health, and offering personalized grooming recommendations, enhancing customer convenience and engagement4.

Leading companies like Petco, PetSmart, and Woof Gang Bakery are leveraging technology to differentiate their offerings. For instance, Petco and PetSmart provide comprehensive grooming packages that include bathing, haircuts, and nail trimming, supported by advanced equipment to ensure pet safety and comfort4. Smaller players, such as Just 4 Paws Pet Spa, focus on niche services like breed-specific grooming, utilizing specialized tools for breeds like Portuguese Water Dogs2. This competition is driving innovation, with companies increasingly adopting eco-friendly and pet-safe technologies to attract environmentally conscious consumers.

Technological advancements are reshaping the market by enabling more efficient service delivery and expanding service offerings. For example, the rise of mobile grooming units equipped with advanced tools allows pet owners to access professional services at their doorstep4. This convenience, coupled with the growing trend of pet humanization, is encouraging pet owners to invest more in grooming services, thereby boosting market growth1. Furthermore, technology is fostering transparency, as digital platforms enable real-time feedback and reviews, influencing consumer choices10.

The U.S. pet grooming services market is thriving, driven by increasing pet ownership and the trend of pet humanization, where pets are treated as family members. In 2022, U.S. pet owners spent $136.8 billion on their pets, surpassing the $123.6 billion projected in 20216. This growth is fueled by the demand for professional grooming services, which ensure pets' health, hygiene, and appearance. Services like bathing, haircuts, and nail trimming are particularly popular, with bathing and drying services being the most frequently requested4. However, the rise in pet grooming product adoption poses a challenge to professional services, as some pet owners opt for at-home grooming solutions4.

To address these challenges, companies should focus on enhancing service differentiation by offering unique services such as spa treatments or behavioral therapy to stand out from competitors and attract premium customers4. Expanding geographic reach, particularly for smaller chains like Groomingdales, could help tap into underserved markets. Additionally, promoting the professional advantages of grooming services, such as expertise and convenience, can help counter the rise of at-home grooming products4.