Buying guide for best dog grooming tables
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Grooming is an essential part of a dog’s health. Periodic grooming not only helps to improve a dog’s appearance but also removes mats that can be a breeding ground for pests and a site of infections.
Grooming your dog can be expensive, and this is where having your own dog grooming table can save you money. One of these tables can help with all aspects of grooming your pet, from washing and drying the coat to trimming the nails. A table dedicated solely to these tasks will enable you to groom your dog more easily and safely while also speeding up the process, which your dog will likely appreciate.
Whether you’re buying a table for your own pet’s needs or to start a grooming business, there are several features to consider before deciding on what can be a significant purchase. This guide can help you know what to focus on when shopping and how much you can expect to spend. We also offer some of our own recommendations for grooming tables that fit various budgets.
Key considerations
Durability and safety
Any dog grooming table you consider should be both sturdy enough to hold your dog’s weight and light enough to move out of the way when it isn’t in use. It should be stable enough that it doesn’t wobble, especially when your dog’s on it.
The materials should be durable and resistant to rust. Most of these tables are built out of stainless steel, often with a wooden platform that serves as the surface your pet sits on. The table should have some form of waterproofing, usually in the form of a nonslip rubber mat or coating. Rubber is also an important design element on the table legs. Rubber feet will keep the table from sliding around when it’s in use and prevent any damage to your floor.
All parts of a quality dog grooming table should have rounded corners to protect both you and your pet.
Size and weight
The size and weight of a dog grooming table are both important elements to consider, particularly if you need the table to be mobile. Generally, the heavier the grooming table, the more stable and less portable it is. Think about how you plan to use the table before deciding on a size.
The size of your dog is also a primary factor in choosing a table size. You don’t need a table built to hold 300 pounds for a Chihuahua. Don’t buy more (or less) table than you need.
You can really cut down on the mess while grooming if you use a table that is narrow enough to fit in your bathtub.
Portability
The larger the table, the more difficult it will be to both move and store. If portability and storage are high on your list of features, go with a lightweight table with legs that fold easily. When the table is set up, the legs should lock firmly into place, so the table doesn’t wobble or collapse while you’re using it.
A lightweight, folding grooming table is a good choice if you’re seeking to start a mobile grooming business. But if you don’t need to move the table around much, welded legs provide more stability.
Adjustability
One of the biggest perks of owning a dog grooming table is that you can avoid back strain while washing your dog or clipping its nails. You can take advantage of this perk by choosing a table that adjusts to both your height and your pet’s. Tables that can adjust up and down are more ergonomic for you and more comfortable for your dog. Most grooming tables that offer this option are adjusted manually, but some have an electric or hydraulic motor to raise and lower the table for you. If you choose one of these tables, find out if there is a manual backup for use when power isn’t an option.
Caution
While you might want to add wheels to your table for improved mobility, manufacturers don’t recommend it because it makes the table less stable.
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Dog grooming table features
Assembly
Many dog grooming tables fold up for storage, so a surprising number them arrive fully assembled. If some assembly is required, know how extensive the project will be and what tools you’ll need. Read through online customer reviews for information about ease of assembly and the tools required.
Grooming arm and leash
A unique feature of a dog grooming table is the grooming arm and the attached leash, or noose, that hangs from it. These elements help to secure your pet in a set position for the duration of the grooming. While one arm/loop is standard on dog grooming tables, some tables ship with two, offering more control when grooming a large dog.
Arm: The arm should be rugged enough to hold your pet. It should be adjustable, so you can use it in different positions. Most arms clamp onto the table and can be moved to suit your needs.
Leash: The leash can help to calm a nervous pet as well as secure a dog that has no interest in being groomed. The leash should be durable enough to firmly hold your dog and have quick-release connectors in case your dog tries to jump off the table.
Mat
A grooming mat is what your pet sits, stands, or lies on while being groomed, so it’s a vital element. The mat should be made of a nonslip material, such as textured rubber, so your pet won’t slide off it. A textured surface gives your pet better traction and puts your dog more at ease. The material should resist odors and be removable so you can clean under it, too.
Storage
Most dog grooming tables have a shelf or basket, usually under the table, that can be used to store grooming tools, towels, and other items. A slotted shelf is easier to clean and won’t allow water, hair, or other residue to collect.
Maintenance
Dirt and hair are given by-products of dog grooming, so your table should be able to handle these easily. Smooth surfaces without crevices where fur and dirt can collect are an important feature here.
Dog grooming table prices
You can find some quality dog grooming tables for less than $100, with more expensive models ranging as high as $500 or more. The more expensive tables are more stable and higher quality and usually better suited to grooming large dogs. You will also pay more for a table with advanced features, such as an electric or hydraulic lift.
"Some grooming tables have a strong enough arm to support a smaller dog in a sling. This is a particularly effective way to trim the dog’s nails."
STAFF
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Tips
● Use positive reinforcement – never punishment – to familiarize your dog with the grooming table. Dole out treats and praise when your dog jumps onto the table or obeys commands while on it. If possible, start grooming your dog at a young age. If you start when your pet is about three months old, your puppy will become used to grooming.
● Keep the grooming area quiet. To make sure your dog stays calm and focused, be sure that the grooming area is free of excessive noise and other distractions.
● Enlist help. If your dog is very nervous around the grooming table and you fear that the grooming arm and leash won’t hold your pet still, get someone to help you.
● Try a rotating table. If you’re buying a grooming table for a miniature dog, try to find one that rotates. This will allow you to easily access all sides of the dog.
FAQ
Q. How often should I groom my dog?
A. The preferred interval is about once a month. This will help maintain your dog’s coat and health and require shorter grooming sessions. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends even more frequent sessions for puppies to help them get used to the grooming table.
Q. Are these tables short enough for a dog to jump on?
A. That depends on the table and the dog, but it isn’t recommended that you allow your dog to leap up onto the table. If your dog is too heavy to pick up, invest in some stairs or a ramp to help your pet on and off the table.
Q. What are the benefits of an electric adjustable table?
A. An electric table is particularly beneficial if you have a larger dog. With an electric table, you won’t need to move your pet off and on the table if you have to adjust the height. Tables that adjust low enough also eliminate the need for stairs or a ramp.
