How To Become A Dog Groomer: A Comprehensive Guide
Interested in learning how to become a dog groomer? This can be achieved in many ways, but participating in a grooming training program is the surest path to success. If you love dogs and want to work in the pet care industry, dog grooming may be the perfect career to express your creativity. While it comes with its challenges, it's a rewarding career path with plenty of opportunity for growth. At The Academy of Pet Careers, we understand that there are a lot of factors to consider. This guide will help you navigate all of those factors, so you can make the most educated decision.
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What Does a Dog Groomer Do?
No matter their position, dog groomers work hands-on with dogs to keep them looking and feeling good. In addition to styling, groomers tend to their clients' dogs' skin and coats to prevent issues like dry skin and matting. Oftentimes, groomers are the first to notice health issues on a dog, so their job is just as much about overall health as it is about appearance. Most dog groomers fall into one of two categories:
Bather/Brusher
This type of groomer is responsible for maintaining the hygiene and cleanliness of their clients. They bathe, dry, and brush dogs' coats and teeth. They also care for their nails, clean their ears, and do basic trimming as needed. These groomers typically get paid less than stylists, but many start off as bather/brushers and advance with time and experience.
Groomer/Stylist
A stylist can do everything a bather/brusher does, but they also cut and style dogs' coats in accordance with breed standards and owner preferences. Some even venture into creative grooming, utilizing dyes and unique styling techniques to turn their clients' dogs into walking works of art. Both types of groomers are also responsible for booking appointments, selling grooming services, maintaining grooming tools and equipment, communicating with clients, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment for both pets and people.
Dog Groomer Requirements & Qualifications
There are very few legal requirements for dog groomers, but as a groomer, you are responsible for the health and safety of the dog in your care. Because of this, it's best to learn as much as you can about dog behavior, anatomy, and care before starting your career.
Dog Groomer Education
Typically, only a high school diploma is required to work as a dog groomer. While no state currently requires a formal education for dog groomers, there are options to help you gain the foundational knowledge and experience needed to do the job well. This knowledge will include working with different dog breeds, learning technical skills, executing safety procedures, and more. Each one has a different cost and a different time commitment to become a pet groomer.
Hands-On School (2-5 Months)
Several schools across the country offer hands-on dog grooming certification programs. In these programs, you learn the theory behind proper grooming and handling and you get to groom a wide range of dog breeds. No other option provides such a comprehensive combination of classroom learning and practical experience. Of course, each school is different, as are their grooming techniques and handling methods. Research the programs in your area, and make sure to pick a school that aligns with your values and vision for your career.
Because hands-on schools offer such high quality education, they're also the most expensive and time-consuming option. Nonetheless, pet groomers who have completed training programs are more likely to land high-paying jobs in the field. This makes the initial investment worth it for many.
Mentorship (Timeline Varies)
Not everyone is able to attend school full-time. The next best option is to find a mentor within the industry and learn from them. Sometimes, you'll work under your mentor as a paid employee who assists with basic grooming tasks, like bathing and brushing. Other times, you'll work for free in exchange for education. This arrangement is entirely up to you and your mentor.
There is currently no network for dog groomers seeking mentees, so you will need to find a groomer who is willing to teach you. As with schools, different groomers use different methods and abide by different standards. Research successful dog groomers in your area, and seek a mentor whose values align with yours. Furthermore, when working with a mentor, there are no guarantees as to the quality of your education. It's important to choose someone whose expertise you trust.
Online School (6-12 Months)
If you don't have access to or time to attend a hands-on school, you can opt for an online school. These programs allow you to learn from anywhere and at your own pace. Plus, many offer certifications to graduates. The downside is that online programs don't provide hands-on training. At best, you'll be asked to practice on your own dogs and submit photos of your work for critique. At worst, there's no interactive component whatsoever. If you choose to pursue online schooling, it's best to supplement it with hands-on experience through mentorship or by volunteering at a shelter or rescue.
Self-Education (Timeline Varies)
If formal training isn't an option, you can always educate yourself. There are plenty of free resources available to prospective groomers, like free online courses, seminars, video tutorials, and books. Since grooming trends are always changing, it's recommended that even certified dog groomers continue their education throughout their careers. Self-education is most popular among hobbyists, but there's nothing stopping you from honing your skills and eventually becoming a professional groomer. It may just take longer to gain the hands-on experience necessary to take on your own clients.
Dog Groomer Certification
While no states currently require certifications, plenty of hands-on and online schools offer certificates to their graduates. These credentials act as proof of your skills and understanding of different breeds and coat types. Certification from organizations like The Academy of Pet Careers, National Dog Groomers Association of America, or International Professional Groomers Inc can boost a dog groomer's credibility. Even if you don't attend a school for your dog grooming education, you might obtain certification to improve your odds of getting hired. Certification can also help dog groomers attract more clients and demonstrate their commitment to professionalism.
Dog Groomer License
Currently, there are no licensing requirements for professional groomers. Some states may require you to have a license to operate a grooming facility (even as a mobile or “freelance” groomer), but if you're working for someone else, you don't need to obtain any kind of license.
Personal Skills
Professional dog groomers need to develop a combination of technical and interpersonal skills. While it is a great career for animal lovers, working with dogs also includes working with their people. This means being able to communicate effectively with pet owners, addressing their concerns about their dogs, and listening to their requests. In some cases, you'll need to have difficult conversations with clients, such as about matted dogs that need to be shaved or dogs that are too reactive to be groomed without sedation. As a groomer, you'll need to show empathy and understanding for your clients as well as their pets.
In addition to people skills, dog groomers should be able to…
- Work on their feet for many hours.
- Handle both large and small dogs.
- Keep their composure during stressful situations, such as with a reactive dog.
- Read and react appropriately to dog body language.
- Express their creativity through their work.
If you want to work with animals but you're unsure if dog training is the right path for you, click here to explore other career options.
Finding a Job As a Dog Groomer
Once you complete your education, it's time to move onto the next phase of your career. Some grooming schools provide real-world experiences to practice grooming after receiving education. That said, there are plenty of opportunities for dog groomers without the help of their school. You can see the diversity of grooming jobs on websites such as https://jooble.org/jobs-dog-groomer-apprentice. It's a good idea to keep of portfolio of past grooms on hand for securing future clients or employment.
How much do dog groomers make?
Dog groomers' salaries vary widely based on their location, position, and specialty. The average salary for dog groomers in the US is $47,659 per year, but specialized groomers–for specific breeds or show dogs–might earn much more. However, potential pay can vary widely. Many dog groomers receive tips that typically range from 10 to 20% of the service cost. Salon owners and independent groomers also have the capacity to earn much more depending on their business models.
Jobs for Dog Groomers
Most dog groomers settle into their careers in one of three places: a grooming salon, mobile grooming, or in a shelter or rescue. If you work for a salon or mobile grooming business, you'll get to express your creativity in your grooms. You can try different styles for different breeds, and work directly with owners to find a happy medium between what they want for their pet and what the pet needs.
In a kennel, shelter, or rescue, your job will be less about style and more about health. You'll most likely work with dogs coming from unfortunate conditions. It's not glamorous work, but it's incredibly meaningful to take a dog from matted and uncomfortable to healthy and adoptable.
Starting a Dog Grooming Business
Of course, you can also start your own business. Many groomers see success working independently, either in their own grooming salon or as a mobile groomer. To become a self-employed groomer, you also need business skills in addition to grooming experience. You'll need to learn how to manage your client base, your finances, and your marketing. It's a major commitment, but it's very common in the industry.
Key Takeaways
Whether you want to work in a pet store, pet salon, or your own dog grooming business, aspiring dog groomers can turn their dreams into a reality. The road to professional dog grooming can vary depending on the person, but there are access points all around. One of the most accessible ways to enter the grooming industry is by attending a dog grooming school. The Academy of Pet Careers' dog grooming training programs are the perfect way to become a certified dog groomer and launch your new career.
Joseph Schifano
Joseph Schifano is the President of The Academy of Pet Careers and the Founder of DogNerdly.
With over 20 years of professional pet experience, Joseph began his journey as the owner/operator of a successful seven-figure pet care business. He later acquired The Academy of Pet Careers, aiming to elevate the quality of care provided by industry professionals. This position enabled him to connect with leading experts in the field and deepen his knowledge in all aspects of pet care.