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. What ergonomic practice should groomers follow to prevent repetitive strain injuries? → Adjust table height so the dog is at a comfortable working level
3. A client's cat has dandruff-like flakes that appear to move when the coat is parted. This is characteristic of: → Cheyletiellosis (walking dandruff)
4. Which of the following is NOT an appropriate ear cleaning solution for routine grooming use? → Hydrogen peroxide
5. Which disease risk is significantly reduced by properly disinfecting grooming tubs between every dog? → Ringworm (dermatophytosis) cross-contamination
6. When setting pricing for grooming services, which factor is LEAST relevant? → The client's personal income level
7. Why should electrical grooming equipment be checked regularly? → To prevent electrical accidents
8. Which organization specifically sanctions and judges creative grooming competitions in the United States with defined category rules? → Intergroom and GroomExpo (NDGAA)
9. 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
10. Which grooming tool and technique best manages a dog with dry seborrhea to improve coat health? → Moisturizing/hydrating shampoo followed by a conditioning rinse
11. What is the correct rate of chest compressions for CPR on a medium-sized dog? → 100–120 compressions per minute
12. Which OSHA standard is most relevant to professional pet groomers regarding chemical hazard communication? → OSHA 1910.1200 (Hazard Communication / SDS)
13. A dog that yawns, licks its lips, and looks away when approached by a stranger is most likely: → Offering calming or appeasement signals
14. 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
15. Which breed characteristic most significantly increases the need for frequent nail maintenance appointments? → Dogs that primarily walk on soft grass or carpet surfaces
16. 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
17. Which gum color in a dog suggests adequate circulation and oxygenation? → Moist pink (bubblegum pink)
18. Which of the following best describes a 'snap-on comb' attachment? → A plastic guard that attaches to a clipper blade to leave a longer coat
19. 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
20. A groomer is asked to replicate a tiger stripe pattern on a Golden Retriever using pet-safe color. What color combination achieves the most realistic effect? → Black stripes over an orange or amber base coat
21. What is the most professional way to handle a negative online review of your grooming salon? → Respond calmly, acknowledge the concern, and offer to resolve it offline
22. Which layer of a dog's skin contains hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and blood vessels? → Dermis
23. 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
24. What is the best way to handle a pricing increase when communicating with existing clients? → Notify clients in advance with clear explanation of the reason and effective date
25. What behavioral sign indicates a cat is in a highly agitated or overstimulated state and may bite or scratch? → Rapid tail lashing and skin twitching
26. During consultation, a client is unsure which trim length to choose. What is the most helpful groomer response? → Show photos of different trim lengths and explain maintenance requirements for each
27. When should a groomer apply a cream rinse or conditioner during the bathing process? → After shampooing and rinsing, on a clean coat
28. What is the best way for a grooming salon to communicate a price increase to existing clients? → Send advance written notice explaining the reason and effective date of the change
29. 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
30. When scissoring a Cocker Spaniel's ear leather, the proper technique to avoid cutting the ear itself is to: → Place a comb between the scissors and the ear leather before cutting