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CFSG Dog & Cat Grooming Guidelines 2025

A New Milestone for Our Industry

We are proud to announce that the Canine & Feline Sector Group (CFSG) has published its new Dog & Cat Grooming Guidelines — and the British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA) is listed among the contributing organisations.

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This marks a meaningful step forward for the grooming profession: a shared standard rooted in animal welfare, safe practices, and professional accountability.

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🔗 Download the full CFSG Guidelines

🔗 Go to CFSG for the document: Best Practice for Dog & Cat Groomers

What the Guidelines Say

The CFSG Guidelines offer a clear code of best practice for all groomers working with dogs and cats in the UK. Key principles include:

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  • Follow the Law – Work within the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and related legal requirements

  • Training Matters – Groomers must be trained and competent

  • Hygiene is Essential – Clean tools after every use, carry out daily deep cleans, and maintain equipment.

  • Set Clear Standards – Have written policies, service clarity, and proper records for all pets and clients.

  • Insurance is a Must – Ensure appropriate cover for your business, staff, and animals in your care.

  • Pre-Groom Checks – Assess each animal’s health and behaviour before starting.

  • Handle with Care – Use gentle techniques, monitor stress, and never exceed 3 hours per session.

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Where BIGA Stands

While we are honoured to be part of this progress, we must also be honest:


BIGA is disappointed that the guidelines did not go far enough in encouraging higher-level qualifications - particularly the promotion of Level 3 grooming qualifications.


As our Director, Paula Bryan, shared:
"What concerns me most is that the Code, in its current form, risks inadvertently endorsing a 'minimum effort' approach. For those of us striving to build public trust and move away from the dangerous reality of unqualified, self-taught groomers, this feels like a missed opportunity. A single sentence that encourages continuous professional development and highlights Level 3 as a progressive step - even as an advisory - would send a powerful signal."

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BIGA Ongoing Commitment

As a member-led association, BIGA will continue to:

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  • Advocate for recognition of professional dog grooming as a skilled trade

  • Support efforts that protect animal welfare

  • Support career development, and promotes public trust

  • Remain committed to working with C&G, CFSG, and industry stakeholders to raise the bar for all groomers

What You Can Do Now

To align with the new expectations and demonstrate best practice, we encourage all BIGA members to:

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  1. Download and review the CFSG Guidelines

  2. Audit your current practices against the recommended standards

  3. Update or implement key salon policies (e.g. animal health declarations, emergency protocols)

  4. Educate your clients about the importance of working with groomers who meet modern professional standards

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