Dog Grooming Tub Guide: How to Choose the Best Pet Grooming Tub

Selecting the right dog grooming tub is a critical decision for both professional groomers and pet owners who take grooming into their own hands. A well-chosen tub can make grooming more efficient, safer, and comfortable for both the groomer and the dog. Investing in a quality grooming tub will not only enhance your salon’s workflow but also improve the overall grooming experience.

Is your bathing room set up for success with the very best grooming tubs? Waggz can help you start strong and order the right pet tub for your space.

Compare your options with this handy pet grooming bathtub shopping guide.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Grooming Tub

Size and Weight Capacity

Choosing the correct size and weight capacity for your grooming tub is essential for accommodating different dog breeds. Smaller tubs may be suitable for toy or small breeds, while larger models are necessary for medium to large breeds to ensure the dog fits comfortably. It’s also important to check the tub’s weight capacity to avoid any risk of damage or accidents during grooming.

Waggz stationary and electric bathing tubs come in a standard 50-inch size and 60-inch XL extended version. Even if you typically groom small dogs or specialize in teacup breeds, we always recommend sizing up to the largest tub possible. If space and budget allow, bigger grooming tubs give you the flexibility to comfortably groom breeds of all sizes.

It’s also worth noting that Waggz XL 60-inch grooming bathtubs have oversized entrance doors. The standard door size on most 50-inch grooming tubs is 16 inches across. Our XL pet tub models have a wider door, too – measuring 20 inches to help big pets enter and exit more easily.

We recommend: Any Waggz standard 50-inch pet grooming tub  Or an XL 60-inch upgraded tub, if space allows!

Material and Durability

Dog grooming tubs come in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and fiberglass.  When it comes to choosing a dog grooming tub, the material is one of the most critical factors that can influence its durability, ease of use, and overall value. Among the options available, stainless steel stands out as the superior choice for professional groomers and those looking for a long-lasting investment. Each material has its benefits:

• Stainless Steel: 
  • Stainless steel can handle the heaviest and most active dogs without denting or cracking, making it a reliable choice for high-volume grooming salons.
  • Easy to Clean: The non-porous surface of stainless steel makes it incredibly easy to sanitize, preventing the buildup of bacteria and ensuring a hygienic environment for every grooming session.
  • Professional Appearance: A sleek, modern look gives your grooming salon a polished and professional feel, which can leave a lasting impression on your clients.
• Plastic and Fiberglass:
  • While plastic and fiberglass grooming tubs are more affordable and lightweight, they fall short in terms of durability and longevity. These materials are prone to scratching, staining, and general wear and tear, which can lead to a less professional appearance over time. They are best suited for mobile groomers or those who only groom occasionally at home.
  • Lower Durability: These materials are more susceptible to damage from heavy use and might require frequent replacements.
  • Easier to Transport: If mobility is your primary concern, plastic or fiberglass tubs may be convenient, but they do not offer the same level of sturdiness and reliability as stainless steel.

Durability is key when selecting a grooming tub, as it needs to withstand frequent use and cleaning without showing signs of wear.

Design and Features

The design of the tub can significantly impact the grooming process. Look for features that enhance ease of use and comfort.

Waggz worked closely with professional pet groomers and mentors by requesting feedback, testing designs, and pushing the limits. Our new electric tubs have several brand-new features that you can’t find at any other grooming supply store.

1. High-Powered Push Rod

Waggz is the first grooming tub manufacturer to eliminate rolling wheels and lift tracks. Over the years, we’ve heard so many complaints about tubs that collect hair and debris in the rolling tracks. This buildup often causes wheels to stutter or get stuck.

So, we developed and patented a completely new, high-powered motor system. Our patented push rod is completely sealed, so it pushes hair out of the way every time the grooming tub travels up and down – it can never get trapped inside the mechanism or disrupt performance.

2. IPX6 Water Resistant Pedals

IPX6 water resistant pedals are the standard for medical-grade equipment; now, Waggz is bringing it to dog groomers. Previously, most grooming tubs had water–resistant coatings over electrical components, which provided enough protection for the occasional splash of water.

Waggz IPX6 water resistant pedals are rated even more highly. Spray down your entire grooming tub at the end of each day and keep your bathing room or dog wash station sparkling clean. These electric tub controls can handle it!

3. Redesigned Hair Catcher and Drain

Plumbing components and connections are a huge part of your bathing tub. Clogged drains were another common complaint from pet groomers, so we completely redesigned and improved the shape of our new drains with more effective, built-in hair catchers. 

4. Ultra-Stable X Frame

Electric tubs are seriously heavy-duty equipment, and your bathing room will get a lot of use! Our patented push rod lift system works with the same, ultra-stable X frame design that you know and love on Waggz grooming tables.

No other frame shape can match this level of stability! Plus, our control system has anti-vibration stabilizers built right in.

5. Water Resistant, Protective Design

We already mentioned that our foot pedals are rated with IPX6 water resistant pedals, but what about the motor? Yep! We’ve upgraded that, too. Waggz electric grooming tubs have several extra, protective features to keep your grooming salon safe and clean for years to come.

Always look for a tub that has the motor mounted away from the floor and inside an IPX6 water resistant box. (Spoiler: Waggz is the only one who does it!) We’ve also wrapped the tub with chew-proof wires and added a frame around the powder-coated base for extra protection.

Electric vs. Stationary Tub Design

When choosing a dog grooming tub, it’s important to weigh the benefits of electric versus stationary tub designs. Each option offers unique features that cater to different grooming needs and setups.

Waggz pet grooming tubs are designed by and for pet groomers, so we’ve developed some unique features that help pets get into the tub on their own – even with stationary tubs that don’t adjust for height.

Electric Grooming Tubs

Electric grooming tubs are designed to enhance the grooming process with the push of a button. These tubs typically come with adjustable height settings that allow you to raise or lower the tub effortlessly. This feature is particularly beneficial for reducing strain on the groomer’s back and knees, making it easier to handle dogs of all sizes. Electric tubs can speed up the grooming process by providing an optimal working position for every breed, leading to greater efficiency and comfort during long grooming sessions.

Waggz Power Tubs (WZ-231E and WZ-230E) gently lower down to 13 inches and lift up to 37 inches tall, so you can set the perfect height while you work. No more bending over, bad posture, or back aches at the end of a long day!

Stationary Grooming Tubs

Stationary grooming tubs are a tried-and-true option for grooming salons that prioritize simplicity and durability. These tubs don’t have adjustable features but offer a sturdy, stable design that can handle the demands of continuous use. Built from robust materials like stainless steel, stationary tubs provide a reliable grooming setup that requires minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice for salons focused on long-term use.

The Waggz Roll-Lift (WZ-230N) tub, for example, has a set of three stairs with non-slip treads that roll out from under the bath. No other pet grooming equipment company uses medical-grade materials like our hair-proof casters and sturdy foot brake. Step on the hands-free brake lever to lock the wheels in place while pets climb in and out of the tub; it won’t budge until you release the brake and roll it away.

We recommend: Stationary tub with stairs and locking foot brake Or any Waggz Power tub, for your comfort!

Final Takeaway: Buy a Grooming Tub in Person

There are lots of dog grooming supply companies and equipment manufacturers to choose from. The best grooming tub is always one that works for you – both today and years later.

Testing the equipment in person can shed a little light on the variations between similar products. Our sales team always recommends shopping at pet grooming tradeshows and expos! Even if you aren’t local to visit our pet grooming supply warehouse in City of Industry, California; we might be setting up a tradeshow booth near you!

Test Waggz grooming equipment for yourself, compare quality between different brands, ask lots of questions, and take advantage of grooming show specials!