CPG Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CPG facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A groomer is alone when a dog stops breathing. In what order should actions be performed? → Check for airway obstruction, begin CPR, then call for help as soon as possible
2. Which of the following is NOT an appropriate ear cleaning solution for routine grooming use? → Hydrogen peroxide
3. Which disease risk is significantly reduced by properly disinfecting grooming tubs between every dog? → Ringworm (dermatophytosis) cross-contamination
4. Why should electrical grooming equipment be checked regularly? → To prevent electrical accidents
5. How should a groomer properly store clipper blades when not in use for an extended period? → Lightly oiled and stored in a dry, organized case or rack
6. What is the correct rate of chest compressions for CPR on a medium-sized dog? → 100–120 compressions per minute
7. Otic solutions used during ear cleaning should be applied and then allowed to sit briefly before wiping. This dwell time primarily: → Allows the solution to loosen and dissolve wax and debris
8. Which breed characteristic most significantly increases the need for frequent nail maintenance appointments? → Dogs that primarily walk on soft grass or carpet surfaces
9. A dog presents with thickened, discolored, crumbly nails on all four feet. This presentation is most consistent with: → A possible nail fungal infection or systemic disease requiring veterinary evaluation
10. Which gum color in a dog suggests adequate circulation and oxygenation? → Moist pink (bubblegum pink)
11. Which sign most strongly indicates a dog is experiencing heat stroke rather than simple overheating? → Bright red or pale gums with a body temperature above 104°F
12. After a dog experiences a traumatic injury in the salon, the groomer writes an incident report. Which detail is LEAST important to include? → The dog's coat style requested by the owner
13. A client requests a 'lion trim' on their Löwchen. Which area is traditionally left with a full, unclipped coat? → The forequarters and front half of the body
14. Which of the following is NOT an acceptable reason to deny grooming services to a client? → The pet owner's race, religion, or national origin
15. Correct positioning of guillotine-style nail clippers has the cutting blade facing: → Away from the dog's body (distal / toward the nail tip)
16. What tool is best for removing loose undercoat in double-coated breeds? → Undercoat rake
17. When should a groomer replace a clipper drive cap (also called a comb drive)? → When it shows visible wear, cracking, or causes blade chatter
18. A groomer accidentally lacerates a dog's ear with scissors, causing heavy bleeding. What is the most effective initial treatment? → Apply direct firm pressure with a clean cloth and hold for several minutes
19. What is the primary purpose of using ear powder before plucking hair from a dog's ear canal? → To absorb moisture and improve grip on the hair for cleaner extraction
20. In the context of CPG certification, what is the most important consideration when implementing bathing techniques & products? → Ensuring alignment with established standards, stakeholder needs, and best practices
21. What is the primary reason for 'carding' a grooming table's rubber mat regularly? → To remove embedded hair and debris that harbor bacteria
22. What is the purpose of 'tensioning' scissor blades during sharpening? → To ensure the blades have proper resistance and alignment for clean cuts
23. Which type of dog ear conformation creates the greatest risk for recurring ear infections due to reduced air circulation? → Drop (pendulous, heavily feathered) ears
24. When plucking ear hair in breeds like Poodles, the preferred instrument for precision in the deeper portion of the canal is: → Hemostats (forceps)
25. A dog slips off a grooming table and lands on its side, then cannot get up. What injury should the groomer suspect FIRST? → Spinal injury
26. What is the best approach when handling an unhappy client? → Listen, apologize, and offer a solution
27. What should be done if a pet experiences stress during grooming? → Pause and let the pet calm down
28. Which restraint technique is recommended when grooming a small dog on a grooming table? → The groomer's forearm gently positioned along the dog's side while working
29. What is 'stenciling' in the context of creative pet grooming? → Using a template to apply color or pattern to the coat
30. When trimming nails on a dog with dark pigmentation in the nail, which technique helps you avoid the quick? → Take small incremental cuts and look for a gray or pink center