Dogs: The True Rock Stars of the Grooming Industry typography

by Colin Taylor

Grooming shows around the world are increasing every year, bringing more and more countries together. And this means we get to see a wide variety of international flair in styling, which gives us all inspiration and drive. But we don’t just celebrate our grooming talent; we also applaud the amazingly patient dogs who stand on grooming tables for us so we can showcase our work. 

They very rarely take a wrong step, and for many of us it’s the one time we get to create magic in total peace with no distractions. I have always compared it to Avatar, when the Na’vi tribe connect emotionally and bond to the dragon-like ikhrans when flying on their backs. We as groomers can do the same and connect with our dogs and form that special bond.

Some of us create a stunning plush scissor finish, a perfect bevel and a fitting shape, while others show off their hand-stripping skills. But just when you thought it stopped there, we then have the extreme creative groomers who grandstand artistic masterpieces. And because of this, groomers are chosen by esteemed judges and put on a platform that could in fact impact their passion and career for the greater good.

But let’s just pause for just a second, as none of this would be possible without the amazingly patient dogs. Some dogs belong to the groomer who is competing, but many times they are rented or loaned out by a friend or client. These dogs travel miles by car to shows, or even may take a flight, sometimes internationally. They stay in accommodations that they may not be used to; however, they often get to sleep in the bed with their traveling companion.

I have yet to see any dog who has had an issue or become stressed, but as we see more shows added to the yearly calendar and the demand for bigger classes increases, we do have to pay close attention the welfare of the dogs in the ring.

It was a breath of fresh air when Sally Liddick and Gwen Shelly introduced the “Sally Break” to the competitions at the Barkleigh shows. This break allowed the dogs to stretch their legs halfway into the class and go for a short walk where they could go to the bathroom. These breaks also provided the groomers the opportunity to pay close attention to their halfway-finished styles in motion. Thankfully, other shows globally have implemented this much-needed practice into their own competitions.

I personally would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for my Bedlington Terrier, Steven, who loved going to shows, and when we won, he got so excited. Other groomers would approach me and tell me how amazing I was and how I was the best at scissoring, but I have to admit—Steven was the true star, as he gave me his all that allowed me to give my all. And I think I can speak for many when stating this.

The bottom line is, with every famous groomer comes their equally-as-famous dog, so let’s celebrate our dogs just as much as we are celebrated. As an industry, I want us all to remind ourselves that without our dogs, what would we do and where would we be? I for one am so grateful for this amazing industry and the shows that allow me to travel, and this has all been made possible through dogs…and their hair and fur.

Although the dogs up on stage at the grooming shows get all the attention, it’s important to provide the same respect and care to our four-legged friends that visit our salons every day. Never stop loving what you do and always remember, we are all at different stages in our career, so be patient and kind, like our dogs are to us.

Colin Taylor, a forward-thinking and dynamic force in the dog grooming world today, started out moving from the UK to Hong Kong as a young groomer. After honing his skills in Asia, he moved to the United States and spent the next 20 years becoming one of the most decorated grooming contestants in history. Colin is also one of the proud owners of Fame Pet Products. www.famepetproducts.com

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