For most pet parents, grooming is more than just a haircut—it’s a moment of trust. You’re handing your furry best friend over to someone else, hoping they’ll treat them with the same gentleness and care you do. But in a fast-paced city like London, that trust can be hard to earn.
We’ve all heard horror stories: dogs trembling after traumatic visits, cats terrified of noisy dryers, groomers rushing through appointments like a conveyor belt. And yet, grooming is essential—for hygiene, comfort, and confidence. Especially in a city where muddy paws and shedding fur are part of daily life.
But what if there were pet grooming services in London that actually understand your pet’s emotional needs? What if “pet grooming near me” didn’t just bring up a list of salons—but pointed you toward people who genuinely care?
That’s exactly what this guide is about.
We’ve searched across London—from Hampstead to Hackney, Clapham to Canary Wharf—to find 7 of the most trusted pet groomers who not only get the job done but do it in a way that’s gentle, calming, and fear-free. Some are mobile and come right to your door, reducing travel anxiety. Others operate from boutique salons that look more like spas than clinics, with aromatherapy diffusers, soft music, and even treat stations.
Each groomer featured here has something in common:
- They’re praised for their patience.
- They use pet-friendly, hypoallergenic products.
- And most importantly, they treat your pet like a friend—not a number.
Whether your cat gets nervous in crates, your pup can’t handle loud noises, or you simply want a cleaner, happier pet without the usual stress—this list is for you.
We’ll break down prices, services, real customer feedback, and even how each business handles anxious pets. Because at the end of the day, a clean pet should still be a happy pet.
So let’s explore the 7 London pet groomers who understand that kindness is just as important as clippers—and help you find a grooming partner your pet can truly trust.
Review #1: Pet Universe Mobile Grooming
Best for: Anxious pets and in-home convenience across Greater London
- Starting price: From £55 (small dog grooming)
- Service type: Fully mobile, van-based grooming at your doorstep
- Service area: North, East, South & West London
- Same-day availability: Sometimes, depending on route
- Website: petuniversegrooming.co.uk
- Licensed & insured: Yes
- Specialty: Low-stress grooming for nervous dogs & cats
If your dog panics the second you pull out the travel crate—or your cat hisses at the sound of other pets—Pet Universe Mobile Grooming might just be a game-changer.
They bring the salon to your street with a fully equipped grooming van, parked right outside your home. That means your pet never has to leave their familiar surroundings or sit in a loud, high-traffic salon. And for pets prone to anxiety, familiar smells and your presence nearby can make all the difference.
What Makes Them Different?
What stands out about Pet Universe is their focus on emotional care. Groomers are trained not just in haircuts and nail trims, but also in reading pet body language. They use a soft-touch, fear-free method—giving your pet breaks when needed, speaking calmly, and never rushing through the process.
They also allow owners to stay nearby or inside the home, depending on your pet’s comfort. No cages, no drying kennels, no loud dryers unless specifically tolerated.
Their vans are spotless, with climate control, non-slip flooring, and even soft LED lighting—designed to be as peaceful as possible.
Real Owner Feedback
A customer in Islington shared:
“Our terrier is nervous at the best of times, and traditional salons left him shaking. The groomer from Pet Universe spoke to him like a child, gave him breaks, and even let me hand-feed him during drying. Best experience ever.”
Their Trustpilot reviews are glowing, especially from owners of rescue pets, seniors, and dogs with separation anxiety.
Best For:
- Nervous or reactive dogs
- Elderly pets who struggle with transport
- Owners who prefer home-based service
- Pets that dislike other animals or loud spaces
Worth Knowing
Because they’re fully mobile, availability can be limited in certain postcodes or during peak grooming season. Booking at least a week in advance is recommended.
Review #2: The Dog Spa Chelsea
Best for: Boutique grooming experience with luxury-level care
- Starting price: From £60 (small breed full groom)
- Service type: High-end salon-based grooming
- Location: Chelsea, West London
- Same-day availability: Appointment only, 2–5 days wait
- Website: thedogspachelsea.com
- Licensed & insured: Yes
- Specialty: Holistic grooming with aromatherapy & stress-reducing methods
If you believe your dog deserves the same pampering as you do at a spa—The Dog Spa Chelsea delivers that and more. Located in one of London’s most affluent neighbourhoods, this boutique pet salon is often described as “a wellness retreat for dogs.”
It’s not just about the cut. From the moment your dog steps in, they’re treated to a scented, calm, one-on-one experience with no cages, no waiting crates, and no rushed appointments. Each dog is booked in with a specific groomer, given a calm greeting session, and then groomed start to finish with soothing music, warm towels, and even paw massages.
Why It’s Loved
The Dog Spa Chelsea has gone all-in on emotional wellbeing. Their groomers are trained in canine behaviour and use aromatherapy oils, hypoallergenic shampoos, and stress-reducing lighting to ease even the most jittery pups.
It’s also one of the cleanest, best-organised grooming spaces in London. Appointments are spread out to prevent overlap, and there are no groups of barking dogs sharing the floor.
It’s not the cheapest option—but if your dog hates noise, strangers, or chaos, this is pure luxury calm.
What Dog Parents Say
One Cockapoo owner from Kensington wrote:
“My dog used to get the shakes on grooming day. At The Dog Spa, she literally trots in tail-wagging. They treat her like royalty. And the cut lasts longer than anywhere else.”
Another noted the groomers remember their dog’s quirks each time and always adapt the grooming accordingly.
Best For:
- High-strung or pampered pups
- Small-to-medium breeds with styling needs
- Owners seeking holistic, spa-like care
- Dogs with skin sensitivities or past grooming trauma
Keep In Mind
Prices start higher than most salons, and there’s usually a waitlist. But for pet owners who treat grooming as wellness—not just hygiene—it’s worth every pound.
Review #3: The Dog House Islington
Best for: Friendly neighbourhood grooming with stress-free vibes
- Starting price: From £48 (small breeds)
- Service type: Salon-based, calm and community-focused
- Location: Islington, North London
- Same-day availability: Sometimes (off-peak)
- Website: thedoghouseislington.co.uk
- Licensed & insured: Yes
- Specialty: Gentle handling and grooming for all sizes & temperaments
If you’re looking for a trusted local groomer that treats your dog like part of the family, The Dog House Islington is one of North London’s best-kept secrets. Set up by real dog lovers with a no-rush, no-stress philosophy, this salon has quickly built a reputation for combining quality grooming with emotional care and patience.
They don’t push dogs into cages or hold them down—they take time to build rapport, even if it means longer appointments. That makes it ideal for first-time groomers, rescue dogs, or those who had bad experiences elsewhere.
A Personalised, “One Dog at a Time” Approach
Unlike many high-traffic salons, The Dog House only works on one dog per groomer at a time. This means your pet gets undivided attention—no overlapping appointments, no crowding, and no pressure.
They also offer puppy intro packages, easing dogs into the grooming process slowly with short sessions, playtime, and rewards. It’s an especially great service if your pup is still learning how to trust new environments.
They use only natural, cruelty-free grooming products, and their stylists are trained to handle everything from Poodles and Cockapoos to nervous Staffies and rescues.
What Pet Parents Say
One customer from Highbury shared:
“My rescue spaniel had always been terrified of grooming. But the staff here took their time, let him explore the space, and even let him sit on their lap during brushing. I nearly cried from relief.”
Others have praised the salon’s consistency: “Every groom looks perfect. And they remember my dog’s personality and quirks. It feels like family.”
Best For:
- Nervous or first-time grooming clients
- North Londoners looking for a boutique vibe
- Rescue dogs or pets with past trauma
- Owners who appreciate personal attention
Watch Out
Appointments can fill fast, especially on weekends. If you want regular grooms here, book ahead or sign up for their repeat client plan to secure slots.
Review #4: City & Guilds Mobile Grooming
Best for: Certified groomers who come to you with experience and trust
- Starting price: From £50–£60 (small dogs, wash & tidy)
- Service type: Mobile grooming (van comes to your home)
- Service area: East & Central London primarily
- Same-day availability: Typically 2–4 days’ notice
- Website: cityandguildsgrooming.co.uk
- Licensed & insured: Yes (City & Guilds Level 3 certified groomers)
- Specialty: Breed-standard cuts & calm, home-based grooming for all dogs
If you’re after professionalism, safety, and certified grooming expertise, City & Guilds Mobile Grooming offers peace of mind—delivered right to your doorstep. Unlike many mobile services that operate casually, this team is led by fully qualified Level 3 City & Guilds groomers, which means they’ve been rigorously trained in breed-specific techniques, dog behaviour, and pet hygiene.
Their mobile van is spotless, fully kitted out with warm water baths, hydraulic tables, gentle dryers, and natural grooming products. For owners who worry about cleanliness or corners being cut—this team brings salon-level quality to your street.
Tailored for Comfort & Confidence
What sets City & Guilds apart is their focus on low-stress, structured grooming, especially for breeds with complex coats. They work one dog at a time and always offer a pre-groom consultation so you can explain your dog’s quirks, fears, or preferences.
Each appointment includes a detailed checkup of the coat, skin, ears, and nails. They won’t just clip and dash—they’ll educate you on what your pet needs between grooms and how to avoid future issues.
They’re especially praised by owners of:
- Poodles
- Cockerpoos
- Shih Tzus
- Dogs with thick or curly coats that mat easily
What Owners Say
A Cockapoo owner in Stratford wrote:
“They arrived on time, walked us through every step, and the cut was hands-down the best she’s ever had. My dog walked back in the house calm and wagging—unreal.”
Another noted:
“I liked that they didn’t try to rush. They made me feel like my dog mattered, not just the slot on the calendar.”
Best For:
- Pet owners who want professional-grade, at-home grooming
- Breed-specific cuts or high-maintenance coats
- Nervous pets needing a calm, one-to-one session
- East/Central London pet parents looking for convenience
Consider This
They’re not the cheapest, and booking requires a few days’ notice. But the value per session—especially for pets with complex needs—is unmatched in the mobile space.
Review #5: Bubbly Paws Dog Grooming – South London
Best for: Affordable, friendly grooming in a relaxed suburban setting
- Starting price: From £45 (wash & tidy)
- Service type: Walk-in salon (appointment preferred)
- Location: Dulwich, South London
- Same-day availability: Often available mid-week
- Website: bubblypawsdoggrooming.co.uk
- Licensed & insured: Yes
- Specialty: Gentle grooming with budget-friendly packages
Tucked away in South London’s leafy Dulwich area, Bubbly Paws Dog Grooming combines down-to-earth friendliness with gentle grooming. If you’re looking for a welcoming, reasonably priced spot that treats your pet like a neighbor—not a number—this salon is a hidden gem.
Their focus is on stress-free grooming, not fancy show cuts. That means warm greetings, familiar routines, and groomers who get down on the floor to build trust before lifting a paw. And with full grooms for small dogs starting around £45, it’s one of the most accessible options for families, students, and older pet owners.
Why Locals Love It
Bubbly Paws is run by long-time dog lovers, not just stylists. Every groomer there is trained in calm handling techniques, especially for senior pets, first-timers, and rescues. And if your dog’s had a bad grooming experience in the past, they’ll take the time to undo that damage—slowly, gently, and without pressure.
They offer flexible packages:
- Full grooms
- Wash & tidy
- Face/feet/bottom touch-ups
- Nail trims, de-shedding, and more
Their wash-and-go sessions are also popular for muddy park runs or allergy-prone breeds needing regular skin care.
What People Say
One pet owner in Brixton wrote:
“No pressure, no drama. My Pomeranian actually falls asleep during the blow-dry here. They just get it.”
Others praise the team’s willingness to accommodate special requests—like not using certain scents, pausing for older dogs to sit, or letting anxious pets roam before getting started.
Best For:
- First-time grooming experiences
- South London pet parents on a budget
- Dogs with skin allergies or sensory issues
- Owners who want a personal, familiar feel
Keep in Mind
It’s a small, independent salon, so availability is limited, especially on weekends. Calling ahead or booking online is the best way to avoid disappointment.
Review #6: Pets in Style – Notting Hill
Best for: Stylish grooming with a boutique experience in West London
- Starting price: From £60 (small breeds, full groom)
- Service type: High-end grooming salon
- Location: Notting Hill, West London
- Same-day availability: Appointment only, often booked a week out
- Website: petsinstyle.co.uk
- Licensed & insured: Yes
- Specialty: Luxury grooming with breed-specific styling & calming rituals
If you live in West London and want your dog to leave the salon looking like a showstopper, Pets in Style Notting Hill is the place. More than just grooming, it’s a full-on pet styling experience. Think plush surroundings, curated music, calming aromatherapy, and groomers who know the difference between a Poodle pom and a Bichon head.
This salon is popular with style-conscious owners, especially those who want precision cuts and photo-worthy results. It’s not just about cleaning your dog—it’s about elevating their look while keeping them calm and cared for.
Style & Serenity
What makes Pets in Style different is the balance between precision styling and peaceful atmosphere. Your dog isn’t rushed or rotated between multiple handlers. Each appointment is one-to-one, and staff spend time making your dog feel at home before starting.
They also specialise in breed-standard cuts and Asian fusion styles, which are hard to find outside of elite salons.
Shampoos and conditioners are tailored to coat type, and they offer add-ons like paw balm, tear stain treatments, and coat whitening—ideal for dogs that need extra sparkle.
Client Feedback
A French Bulldog owner in Holland Park wrote:
“I’ve tried four groomers in London. Pets in Style is the first one where my dog actually pulls toward the door when we arrive. They get how to handle him.”
Another shared:
“Not cheap, but you leave with a dog that looks like they’re ready for Vogue Pets.”
Best For:
- Glam dogs, Poodles, and stylish small breeds
- West London pet parents who want luxury touches
- Breed-specific show cuts
- Clients seeking highly personalised attention
Keep in Mind
It’s a boutique salon, so prices reflect the high-end service. And because it’s so well-reviewed, you’ll need to book at least a week in advance for most time slots.
Review #7: Dog & Bone Mobile Grooming
Best for: Reliable mobile service with flexible hours & gentle handling
- Starting price: From £55 (small dog basic groom)
- Service type: Mobile grooming van (at-home)
- Service area: South & East London focused
- Same-day availability: Often available within 24 hours
- Website: dogandbonegrooming.co.uk
- Licensed & insured: Yes
- Specialty: One-on-one stress-free sessions with flexible scheduling
Dog & Bone Mobile Grooming is all about making life easier for you and your pet. They’ve earned a loyal following in South and East London for being reliable, responsive, and—most importantly—gentle. If your schedule is hectic and your dog dislikes busy salons, this service hits a sweet spot between professionalism and convenience.
The team operates a fleet of modern, temperature-controlled vans that are parked right outside your home. Dogs are never crated, never left alone, and always groomed one-on-one—start to finish by the same person.
What Makes It Special?
Their groomers are trained not just in styling, but also in dog behaviour and stress cues. That means they know how to pause when needed, how to calm without force, and how to spot when a dog is getting overstimulated.
They also offer early morning and evening appointments, which is perfect for working pet parents.
This service is particularly loved by owners of senior dogs, rescues, and reactive breeds that don’t tolerate loud spaces or other dogs.
Pet Parent Reviews
A Beagle owner in Deptford shared:
“Our boy gets snappy when stressed. The groomer understood that and worked in short bursts. By the end, he looked great and wasn’t anxious at all.”
A family with a nervous rescue wrote:
“They let us stay close, explained everything, and were so kind. It felt more like therapy than grooming!”
Best For:
- Dogs that hate travel or salons
- Owners with busy or irregular schedules
- Older dogs, reactive dogs, or rescues
- South/East London clients who want in-home calm
A Note on Bookings
While they’re more flexible than most mobile services, weekend slots go quickly, especially in summer. Try to book at least 2–3 days in advance, or ask to be added to their cancellation list.
Quick Comparison Table: Calm & Caring Pet Groomers in London (2025)
| Groomer Name | Type | Starting Price | Mobile? | Best For |
| Pet Universe Mobile | Mobile | £55 | ✅ | Nervous pets, in-home comfort |
| The Dog Spa Chelsea | Salon | £60 | ❌ | Spa-like calm & high-end care |
| The Dog House Islington | Salon | £48 | ❌ | Rescue dogs & personal touch |
| City & Guilds Mobile | Mobile | £50–£60 | ✅ | Certified stylists, breed-specific |
| Bubbly Paws (Dulwich) | Salon | £45 | ❌ | Affordable care, senior dogs |
| Pets in Style (Notting Hill) | Salon | £60+ | ❌ | Glam styles, West London luxury |
| Dog & Bone Mobile | Mobile | £55 | ✅ | Flexible bookings, East/South London |
5 Tips to Choose a Groomer Your Pet Will Love
- Go mobile if your pet gets anxious traveling or around other animals.
- Ask about handling methods — look for “fear-free” or “gentle-touch” grooming.
- Read reviews from owners with rescue or nervous pets.
- Request a meet-and-greet before committing, especially for first-time grooms.
- Avoid cheap shortcuts — it’s not about fast cuts, it’s about a calm, kind experience.
FAQs: Calm Pet Grooming in London
Q: What’s the best option for an anxious dog in London?
A: Pet Universe Mobile or The Dog House Islington are top picks for low-stress, gentle grooming.
Q: Is mobile grooming more expensive?
A: Not always! Most mobile services range from £50–£70 and are great value for dogs that struggle with salon environments.
Q: Can I stay with my dog during the groom?
A: Yes — most mobile services like Dog & Bone or Pet Universe allow owners to stay nearby or visible.
Q: Are breed-specific cuts available with mobile grooming?
A: Yes! City & Guilds Mobile Grooming is certified in breed-standard and show-style cuts.
Conclusion: Clean, Calm & Kind — Your Pet Deserves It All
Choosing a pet groomer isn’t just about fur—it’s about trust. Whether your dog gets shaky at the salon door or your cat hates carriers, these London grooming services are redefining what it means to keep pets looking and feeling their best.
Each of these 7 groomers combines skill, care, and emotional intelligence, so your pet leaves not only clean and stylish—but also happy and relaxed. From mobile vans to calming salons, there’s an option that suits every personality, postcode, and paw size.
So next time you search “pet grooming near me,” skip the stress—and try one of London’s most caring, calm-focused services.
