Major Dog Grooming Competitions in the U.S.
If you’re passionate about dog grooming, attending one of the many grooming competitions and expos held across the United States can be an inspiring and rewarding experience. These events are not only for professional groomers but also for aspiring stylists and dedicated pet owners looking to learn and grow.
Top California Event – Groom Expo West
Groom Expo West is one of the largest pet grooming events on the West Coast, held annually in Pasadena, California. This expo features a wide range of educational seminars, product exhibitions, and grooming competitions that attract thousands of industry professionals.
- Hands-on grooming workshops and seminars
- Over 100 pet brands and equipment vendors
- Competitions by breed, creative styling, and more
- Networking with industry leaders and influencers
Other Notable Grooming Shows in the U.S.
Beyond California, many prominent grooming events take place throughout the country:
- GROOM’D (Atlanta, Georgia): The largest grooming expo in the Southeast, featuring top-level education and competitions.
- Intergroom (New Jersey): A longstanding event with strong attendance from East Coast professionals.
- SUPERZOO (Las Vegas, Nevada): One of North America’s biggest pet industry trade shows with an extensive grooming competition arena.
- All American Grooming Show (Illinois): Known for its long history and emphasis on practical techniques.
- Regional Events: Shows like Groom Texas, PetQuest, and the New England Grooming Show provide valuable exposure and training in a more intimate setting.
Unique California Dog Events
California is also home to several creative and fun dog-centered events that go beyond traditional grooming shows:
- World Dog Surfing Championships (Pacifica, CA): A one-of-a-kind surfing competition where dogs ride the waves.
- Loews Surf Dog Competition (Imperial Beach, CA): A family-friendly event showcasing surfing pups and their proud owners.
Why You Should Attend a Grooming Event
- Stay up to date with the latest grooming trends and tools
- Test and purchase new grooming products
- Observe world-class grooming in real-time
- Connect with vendors, brands, and fellow professionals
- Gain experience and credibility by entering competitions
Tips for First-Time Attendees
- Book travel and accommodations well in advance
- Bring business cards or a digital profile for networking
- Sign up early for hands-on sessions and seminars
- Carefully review competition rules and judging criteria
If you run a grooming business like Pawradise Grooming, participating in these events can help elevate your brand’s image, showcase your creativity, and connect with new clients or partners. It’s also a fantastic way to create content for social media or your website. Consider attending your first show—you might be surprised how much it inspires your next grooming masterpiece.
Ready to Get Inspired?
Attending grooming expos and competitions is one of the best ways to stay ahead in the pet care industry. Whether you’re an experienced groomer or just starting out, these events offer valuable education, product knowledge, and a sense of community that fuels growth and creativity.
At Pawradise Grooming, we’re passionate about providing high-quality grooming services and staying connected to the latest trends in the industry. If you’re in the Orange County area and looking for a trusted, professional grooming experience, we invite you to visit our salon.