Himanshu Saini June 11, 2025
Walk into any pet store, or better yet, scroll through an online marketplace, and you’ll be met with a dizzying array of shampoos, brushes, sprays, wipes, and even paw balms for pets. The pet grooming product market has exploded over the past few years, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.
But what’s really going on behind this growth? What trends are shaping the pet grooming market, and how are consumer preferences evolving? Whether you’re a pet parent, a budding entrepreneur, or simply curious, this blog breaks down the buzz behind the brushes.
The Booming Pet Grooming Industry
Let’s start with some context.
The global pet grooming market was valued at $10.5 billion in 2023, and it’s projected to surpass $15 billion by 2030, thanks to a mix of increased pet ownership, humanisation of pets, and a growing focus on animal wellness.
But pet grooming is not just about numbers—it’s about changing mindsets.
Today’s pets aren’t just animals; they’re family. And that shift is transforming how we care for them.
Key Trends Driving the Pet Grooming Market
Let’s take a look at the key trends driving the pet grooming market!
1. Humanisation of Pets
One of the biggest pet care industry trends is the humanisation trend. Pet owners now expect the same quality in pet care as they do in human personal care.
Think about it: If you wouldn’t use harsh chemicals on your skin, why would you use them on your dog?
This mindset has led to a surge in natural, organic, hypoallergenic, and cruelty-free grooming products that mirror human skincare lines.
2. Premiumisation and Personalization
Pet owners are increasingly willing to spend more on high-end, targeted products.
- Dog shampoos formulated for specific coat types
- Conditioners for sensitive skin
- Tear-free puppy washes
- Fragrance-free options for cats
There’s also growing interest in DNA-based grooming and care recommendations—yes, pet DNA kits are now a thing!
3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products
With sustainability top of mind, consumers are gravitating toward:
- Biodegradable packaging
- Refillable containers
- Vegan grooming formulations
- Waterless shampoos
4. Rise of DTC and E-commerce
Pet grooming brands are increasingly going direct-to-consumer (DTC), cutting out the middleman and building loyal online communities. Subscription boxes, personalised grooming kits, and digital consultations are all part of this evolution.
5. Tech Meets Fur: Smart Grooming Devices
Grooming isn’t just about shampoo anymore. It now includes smart grooming tools like:
- Self-cleaning brushes
- Electric nail grinders with safety sensors
- Fur dryers with heat control
- Smart toothbrushes for pets
Popular Pet Grooming Product Categories
To understand consumer preferences, we need to look at the popular dog grooming products and cat grooming products.
1. Shampoos and Conditioners
Still the top-selling category, but evolving rapidly. Owners want:
- Natural ingredients (oatmeal, tea tree, aloe vera)
- Medicated options for fleas, allergies, or dry skin
- Deodorizing formulas that don’t just mask smells
Many owners now bath their pets at home monthly or even weekly, thanks to easy-to-use home kits.
2. Brushes and Combs
Consumers want pet grooming tools that match their pet’s coat type. Popular options for dog grooming equipments include:
- Deshedding brushes (like Furminator)
- Detangling combs for long-haired breeds
- Silicone brushes for short-haired pets
3. Wipes and Sprays
Convenience is king, and wipes are flying off the shelves for quick clean-ups between baths.
Pet parents love:
- Paw wipes for post-walks
- Ear and eye wipes
- Deodorizing sprays for in-between grooming sessions
Many sprays now include calming scents like lavender or chamomile, which are great for anxious pets.
4. Nail Clippers and Grinders
Trimming nails at home used to be a nightmare. Now, improved tools have made it safer and easier.
Popular features include:
- Quiet operation
- LED lighting for visibility
- Grinders over clippers for gradual trimming
Pro Tip: Watch a few YouTube tutorials before you clip. Your pet (and your furniture) will thank you.
5. Specialty Grooming Products
From pet perfumes to butter creams and paw balms, the “extra” category is seeing surprising growth. Along with that, there are:
- Hotspot sprays
- Wrinkle balms (for bulldogs and pugs)
- Anti-itch serums
- Teeth-cleaning gels
What Do Consumers Really Want?
Here’s what recent surveys and market insights tell us about consumer preferences in grooming products for pets:
- Trust in Ingredients: Pet owners are labelled readers now. They want transparency in ingredients and sourcing.
- Ease of Use: Time-saving, user-friendly packaging and clear instructions are a must.
- Pet Comfort: The pet grooming products have no strong scents, no harsh chemicals, and no irritation. Period.
- Brand Values: Consumers prefer brands that are cruelty-free, eco-conscious, and community-minded.
Brands that tell a story and connect emotionally with pet owners win big in this space.
Who’s Buying Pet Grooming Products?
If you’re curious about the target consumer of this pet grooming market, take a look at the following!
- Millennials and Gen Z: These two demographics are driving the growth, with high expectations and spending power. They’re tech-savvy, value-focused, and brand-loyal if they find a product that works.
- First-Time Pet Owners: The pandemic created a wave of new pet parents. Many are turning to grooming products, such as natural dog hair oils and conditioners as part of learning how to care for their pets holistically.
The Future of Pet Grooming Products
So, what’s next?
We’re likely to see:
- More functional skincare-like products (think serums and exfoliants… for pets!)
- Growth in grooming-as-a-service—mobile groomers, in-store spas, etc.
- Expanded personalization using AI and smart tech to recommend products
- Crossovers with human beauty brands creating pet lines
Prediction: Don’t be surprised if your favourite skincare brand drops a luxury pet shampoo soon.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the pet grooming product market isn’t just about knowing what sells; it’s about recognising a cultural shift. Pets are no longer “just animals”; they’re loved ones, roommates, and even fur-covered kids. And with that comes a demand for higher standards in care, comfort, and quality.
Whether you’re a brand looking to break into the market or a proud pet parent scanning labels at the store, one thing’s for sure:
Grooming has gone from chore to choice—and it’s here to stay.
FAQs
Q. Why is the pet grooming product market growing so rapidly?
Ans. The market is expanding due to rising pet ownership, increasing humanisation of pets, and growing awareness of animal health and wellness. People now treat their pets like family and invest more in their care—including grooming.
Q. What are the most popular pet grooming products right now?
Ans. Top-selling categories include natural shampoos, detangling brushes, grooming wipes, nail grinders, and speciality items like paw balms and deodorising sprays.
Q. Are natural and organic pet grooming products worth it?
Ans. Yes, natural products are often gentler on pets’ skin, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities. Many pet owners now prefer products with non-toxic, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly ingredients.
Q. Where do most consumers buy grooming products for pets?
Ans. Most consumers buy online through platforms like Amazon, Chewy, and brand websites. However, brick-and-mortar pet stores and big-box retailers are still popular for testing products in person.
Q. What’s the difference between human grooming products and pet products?
Ans. Pet grooming products are formulated for different pH levels and skin types. Using human products on pets can cause irritation or harm. Always use items specifically made for animals.
