Every year, someone publishes a list of pet industry trends that reads like a venture capital pitch deck. AI-powered pet wellness! Blockchain pet records! Metaverse pet experiences!
Let me skip the hype and focus on trends that actually matter for real pet businesses. If youâre exploring this area, our Pet Owner Spending Trends 2026 guide covers it in detail.
Trend 1: Mobile Grooming Keeps Growing (12-15% annually)
This is the most significant structural shift in grooming. Mobile demand is growing 2-3x faster than salon demand. The pandemic made clients discover the convenience, and theyâre not going back.
What to do about it: If youâre a salon groomer considering mobile, the market opportunity is strong. If youâre a salon owner, consider adding a mobile van as a service line.
Trend 2: Technology Adoption Is No Longer Optional
In 2020, only 40% of groomers used scheduling software. In 2026, itâs 60% and climbing. The 40% without it are losing clients to the 60% who offer online booking, text reminders, and digital communication.
What to do about it: If youâre in the 40% without software, adopt at least Square Appointments (free) immediately. The competitive disadvantage of having no online booking is real and growing.
Trend 3: Prices Are Rising (And Should Be)
Average grooming prices have increased 20-30% since 2020. Supply costs, labor costs, rent, and general inflation all contribute. Clients have absorbed these increases without significant pushback.
What to do about it: If you havenât raised prices in the last 12 months, do it now. 5-8% annual increases are the new normal.
Trend 4: The Doodle Effect
Doodle breeds (Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, etc.) continue to dominate new puppy registrations. These breeds require frequent, complex grooming with high matting risk. This is both a revenue opportunity and a workflow challenge.
What to do about it: Master Doodle grooming. Price appropriately for coat complexity. Educate Doodle owners about maintenance between grooms.
Trend 5: Premiumization (Clients Spending More Per Visit)
Clients are adding more services per visit â teeth brushing, de-shed treatments, blueberry facials, premium products. The average ticket is increasing even beyond price increases.
What to do about it: Offer and recommend add-on services. Even modest upsells ($10-$15 per client) add $10,000+ annually.
Trend 6: Sustainability and Natural Products
Pet owners increasingly ask about the products used on their dogs. Eco-friendly, natural, and hypoallergenic products command premium prices and attract quality clients.
What to do about it: Stock at least one natural/eco-friendly product line. Highlight it in your marketing. Charge a small premium for ânaturalâ baths.
Trend 7: Groomer Labor Shortage Persists
Not enough trained groomers to meet demand. This drives wages up, makes hiring harder for salon owners, and creates opportunity for independent groomers.
What to do about it: If youâre a groomer â negotiate better. If youâre a salon owner â invest in retention, training, and working conditions.
The Trends That DONâT Matter (Yet)
- AI scheduling: Interesting but current software already handles scheduling well
- Blockchain pet records: Not happening in any meaningful timeframe
- Virtual grooming consultations: Tried during COVID, abandoned because you canât groom over video
- Pet subscription boxes: Not relevant to service businesses
- Cryptocurrency payments: No client has ever asked to pay in Bitcoin for a groom
Focus on what moves the needle today: technology adoption, pricing, online presence, and excellent grooming. The fancy trends can wait.