Frequently, the images depict larger breeds sitting on the floor next to their masters. The Elizabethan era reveals some the earliest historical evidence of pet grooming activity. While the method of grooming is unclear, the pets are clean and well-groomed. Perhaps groomers in the marketplace cleaned them. One such grooming lithograph shows a dog being sheared while sitting on a lady's lap.
Women shearing dogs is also the subject of etchings.
In 17th century France, the poodle was the official dog at court. The era of King Louis XV of France reveals the first official records of dog grooming parlors. Rare books of the 19th century mention dog grooming in Europe. Pet groomers have a historical record of which they can be proud. Over the years, attitudes have been changing toward many animals.