Dogs
Aug 1, 2025
Pet grooming in Dubai has become a full-on wellness routine for our furry friends. Over the years, grooming has undergone significant changes. What used to be just a quick bath and trim is now more about comfort, health, and even mental wellbeing. And honestly, it makes sense. Our pets are family, and just like us, they deserve to feel good inside and out.
Staying on top of the latest grooming trends makes a big difference in your pet’s daily life. From skin-friendly products and relaxing treatments to styles that suit their breed and lifestyle, modern grooming is designed to keep your pet happy, safe, and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top grooming trends for dogs and cats this 2025, and why they’re worth paying attention to. Because a well-groomed pet isn’t only looking good but feeling better, too.
1. Growing Demand for Luxury Spa Grooming Services
Luxury spa grooming refers to an elevated grooming experience that goes beyond basic cleaning. It includes advanced treatments such as coat conditioning, paw massages, aromatherapy, gentle facials, and soothing baths using premium products. These services are carried out in calm, low-stress environments using techniques designed for both comfort and skin health.
Pet owners are now treating grooming as part of a pet’s wellness routine, not just for hygiene or looks. This trend has grown due to an increased awareness of pet anxiety, chronic skin issues, and ageing-related discomfort. As pets become more integrated into the family, their care mirrors human self-care.
Key Benefits
Better coat and skin health through hydrating, non-irritating treatments.
Reduced grooming anxiety, especially for nervous or older pets.
Improved hygiene with deep ear, paw, and facial cleaning.
Gentler handling, tailored to a pet’s behaviour or physical condition.
Luxury grooming sessions often take longer than standard ones and may come at a higher cost. However, for pets with sensitive skin or who dislike traditional grooming, this can be a more suitable and stress-free solution. It is also a preventive care tool, helping avoid issues like dry patches, matting, and cracked paw pads.
2. Rise of Eco-Friendly and Natural Grooming Products
Eco-friendly and natural grooming products are made with ingredients that are safe for pets and do not harm the environment. These include plant-based shampoos, biodegradable wipes, bamboo brushes, and grooming sprays free from harsh chemicals like sulphates, parabens, and artificial dyes or perfumes.
What Makes a Product “Natural” or “Eco-Friendly”?
Natural: Contains ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, shea butter, or coconut oil.
Eco-friendly: Uses sustainable materials and avoids polluting ingredients or packaging.
pH-balanced: Formulated specifically for pets’ skin, which is more sensitive than humans’.
More pets are developing allergies and skin sensitivities due to synthetic ingredients. Pet parents now read labels and seek products with minimal, transparent formulations. At the same time, environmental concerns have led to a demand for zero-waste packaging, biodegradable tools, and refillable bottles.
Key Benefits
Reduces the risk of skin irritation and allergies
Supports long-term coat health without stripping natural oils
Minimises environmental impact, especially for regular groomers
Gentle on both young and senior pets, including cats who are more sensitive to fragrances
Not all products labelled “natural” are truly safe, always check for certifications, ingredient lists, and whether the product is specifically made for pets. Human-grade or overly scented items can still cause harm.
3. Personalised Grooming Plans Based on Breed, Coat and Health
Personalised grooming means creating a grooming routine that suits a pet’s specific needs, including their breed, coat type, skin condition, age, and behaviour. Instead of using the same approach for every pet, grooming plans are now tailored to ensure better results, safety, and comfort.
Different breeds have different grooming needs. For example:
Long-haired dogs like Golden Retrievers need regular brushing to avoid matting.
Short-haired breeds may need more skin care than coat maintenance.
Flat-faced dogs (e.g., Pugs) require special attention to facial folds to prevent infection.
Cats like Persians need frequent combing to prevent painful tangles.
Coat type (double coat, curly coat, wire coat) also affects how often pets should be bathed, brushed, or trimmed. Some breeds may need clipping every 4–6 weeks; others should never be shaved.
Benefits
Prevents skin issues and coat damage
Reduces stress during grooming
Improves coat texture and appearance
Allows early detection of health concerns (e.g., lumps, rashes)
Without a personalised approach, pets may be overwashed, over-clipped, or exposed to unsuitable products, which can lead to dry skin, coat thinning, or stress.
At The Barking Lot, grooming plans are adjusted per pet, with notes kept for each visit to track what works best.
4. Wellness-Integrated Grooming
Wellness-integrated grooming means adding calming and therapeutic elements into a pet’s grooming routine. It focuses on both physical care and emotional well-being, using techniques and products that support relaxation, healing, and overall comfort.
What It Includes
Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender or chamomile to calm nervous pets
Gentle massage: Light pressure techniques to improve circulation and ease tension
Soothing shampoos: Formulas with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, or tea tree
Quiet tools: Low-noise dryers and clippers to reduce stress
Sensory adjustments: Warm water, soft towels, and patient handling for comfort
Grooming can be stressful, especially for pets who have had bad past experiences, suffer from anxiety, or are ageing. Wellness-focused grooming helps turn grooming into a calming and positive experience.
Benefits
Calms nervous or reactive pets
Eases muscle or joint stiffness
Promotes healthy skin recovery
Encourages pets to cooperate better during sessions
Makes grooming feel more like care, not punishment
Some wellness services may require extra time or cost. It’s also important that any essential oils or products used are pet-safe and vet-approved, as not all natural ingredients are safe for animals.
5. Tech-Enhanced Grooming Tools and Services
Tech-enhanced grooming refers to the use of modern tools and digital services that improve the grooming process for both pets and groomers. This includes quieter machines, ergonomic tools, smart apps, and even digital coat analysis.
Examples of Tech in Grooming
Low-noise dryers: Reduces stress caused by loud sounds
Cordless clippers: Safer and easier to use on sensitive areas
Grooming apps: Help manage bookings, records, and reminders
Digital coat mapping tools: Show the best trim for coat condition and breed
Automated bathing systems: Provide even, water-saving washes
Technology helps groomers work more efficiently and safely, especially with pets that are anxious or have medical needs. It also allows pet parents to stay informed with updates or reports after each visit.
Tech doesn’t replace skill, it supports it. Proper training is still essential to make sure each tool is used safely and correctly.
6. Creative Styling and Fashion-Inspired Cuts
Creative grooming includes stylish cuts and coat designs that highlight a pet’s features or personality. These styles are often inspired by trends in the grooming world, such as teddy bear trims, Asian fusion cuts, or seasonal styling.
Popular Styles in 2025
Teddy bear cuts: Rounded, fluffy face and body, ideal for small breeds
Asian fusion grooming: Bold shapes with clean lines and expressive faces
Custom styles: Tailored trims for Instagram-ready looks or special events
Colour-safe highlights: Temporary, pet-safe dyes for festive occasions
Creative grooming lets owners express their pet’s personality while keeping them clean and healthy. These cuts also help reduce matting and improve coat condition if done regularly.
Not all pets are suitable for bold or coloured styles. Skin health, coat condition, and behaviour must be checked first. Only use pet-approved, non-toxic products, and work with experienced groomers to avoid stress or skin irritation.
7. Oral, Ear and Paw Care Take Center Stage
In 2025, grooming routines are becoming more complete, focusing not just on the coat, but also on the mouth, ears, and paws, which are just as important to a pet’s health. These areas are often overlooked at home, but when not properly cared for, they can lead to pain, infections, and long-term health problems.
A full grooming session now often includes:
Teeth brushing or dental wipes
Ear cleaning to remove wax and prevent infections
Pawdicures: Nail trims, pad cleaning, balm application
Nail grinding: Smoother finish to avoid scratches or snags
Checking for signs of infections, cracks, or parasites
Neglecting the mouth, ears, or paws can lead to bad breath, painful ear infections, overgrown nails, or damaged paw pads. These issues affect your pet’s comfort and overall health.
Benefits
Prevents dental disease and gum issues
Keeps ears clean, dry, and infection-free
Ensures nails don’t cause joint pain or posture problems
Maintains smooth, crack-free paws for safe walking
Early detection of hidden health problems
Home care is helpful, but professional grooming ensures deeper cleaning and regular checks. Always use pet-safe products for ears and teeth, and avoid over-trimming nails to prevent injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should my pet be groomed in Dubai?
It depends on the breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Long-haired cats or dogs usually need grooming every 4 to 6 weeks, while short-haired pets may only need it every 8 to 12 weeks.
What grooming styles are common in 2025?
Teddy bear trims, lion cuts, and natural breed-specific shapes are the most common. These styles are chosen for their easy maintenance and comfort, especially in warmer climates.
Do pets need a full bath every time?
Not always. Many groomers use waterless shampoos or quick cleans unless the pet has a skin condition or visible dirt. Brushing and de-shedding are often enough for short-haired or indoor pets.
What’s new in grooming tools and services?
New tools include low-noise dryers, cordless clippers, and pet-safe de-shedding brushes. Some salons also use grooming apps to manage appointments and track your pet’s care history.
What’s the future of pet grooming in the UAE?
Grooming is becoming more wellness-focused. There’s more demand for personalised care, natural products, and services that reduce stress and support overall pet health.
