The Origins of Pet Grooming: From Ancient Times to Modern Day Care

When you think of pet grooming today, you might imagine a fluffy dog getting a stylish trim or a cat being brushed until their coat gleams. But grooming goes far beyond appearance — and it has roots stretching back thousands of years. Understanding the history of grooming shows us why it’s still such an important part of pet care today.

Grooming in Ancient Civilisations

• Ancient Egypt: Egyptians adored cats and dogs, often bathing and brushing them as a sign of care and status. Frescoes and artefacts even depict cats being carefully tended to.

• China & East Asia: In imperial courts, small lapdogs like the Pekingese were groomed regularly, their coats shaped to match cultural beauty standards of the time.

• Rome & Greece: Dogs were companions, guards, and hunting partners. Wealthy Romans were known to oil, wash, and brush their dogs to keep them comfortable in hot climates.

The Rise of Breed Standards and Styling

By the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe, grooming evolved alongside the development of distinct dog breeds. Poodles, for example, had practical trims designed to protect their joints when retrieving in water. Over time, these functional trims became the stylish cuts we see in competitions today.

Grooming as a Symbol of Care

Historically, grooming wasn’t just about looks. It symbolised health, hygiene, and status. Clean, well-kept pets reflected the owner’s attentiveness and, in many cases, their social standing. This mindset carried forward into the modern era, where grooming became more widely accessible.

Modern Pet Grooming Today

Fast forward to the 20th and 21st century: grooming transformed into a professional industry, with salons, specialised tools, and certified groomers. Today, grooming is no longer reserved for the wealthy, it’s considered an essential part of responsible pet ownership.

At The Grooming Angels, we combine these centuries-old practices with modern techniques and a gentle, pet-centred approach. Our goal is to keep pets not only looking beautiful but also feeling comfortable, healthy, and loved.

Conclusion

From ancient civilisations to modern salons, grooming has always been about more than beauty — it’s about wellbeing and connection between pets and their humans. Whether it’s brushing, trimming, or a soothing spa session, grooming remains one of the simplest ways to care for your furry friend.

✨ Book your pet’s grooming session with The Grooming Angels today here and be part of this timeless tradition of care.