The median annual salary for a dog groomer is $22,750. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $19,580 and the top 10 percent make more than $27,810. The middle 50 percent earned between $21,800 and $25,290. The median annual salary for a dog groomer is $22,750. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $19,580 and the top 10 percent make more than $27,810. The middle 50 percent earned between $21,800 and $25,290.

The average annual salary for a dog groomer is between $20,000 and $25,000. The amount you earn depends on your experience and the size of your employer.

Annual Salary For Dog Groomer

Experience with a variety of breeds is a huge plus for the new groomer. Individuals involved in dog shows have an advantage because they are familiar with the various cuts and styles. The American Kennel Club (AKC) sets the official standards for breeds and their cuts and their dictates must be followed.

While some groomers begin as a grooming assistant or apprentice and learn entirely on the job, many attend a professional grooming school or certification program. However, certification or licensing is not required for those interested in going into business as a professional dog groomer.

• Training: A variety of grooming schools provide training and certification through their programs. Some well-known schools include the New York School of Dog Grooming, the American Academy of Pet Grooming, and the Nash Academy. Most states have several grooming school options. Courses may require 150 to more than 600 hours of practical experience and generally cost several thousand dollars. Completing the courses can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. There are also a variety of manuals and online courses available designed to educate groomers.
• Certification: Completing the National Dog Groomer’s Association of America (NDGAA) exam entitles the graduate to be recognized as a National Certified Master Groomer. The exam consists of extensive written and practical skills questions and essays. The certification process takes a few days.

Dog Groomer Skills & Competencies

This profession requires the following skills:

• Grooming skills: The ability to groom different breeds of dogs according to their hair types
• Interpersonal skills: The ability to work well with others such as dog owners, pet store personnel, and grooming assistants
• Analytical skills: The ability to assess the behavior and condition of each dog
• Physical and mental stamina: The ability to groom large, overly excited, or frightened dogs without getting hurt or injuring the animals
• Familiarity with animal behavior: The ability to determine an animal’s behavior and use techniques, such as a treat, to keep them calm and safe
• Health knowledge: The ability to recognize common illnesses, such as skin disorders, watery eyes and nose possibly due to allergies, or a sprain

Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018, employment for animal care and service workers is projected to grow 22% through 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The dog grooming industry has shown strong growth in recent years. Spending on pet care services continues to surge, and dog groomers should benefit from this trend for the foreseeable future.

Work Environment

Dog groomers work in a variety of environments, either as a solo practitioner or as part of a group salon. Large pet stores also offer grooming services and, many grooming salons collaborate with a vet clinic or doggie day care for the convenience of pet owners.

There may even be opportunities to travel while working as a dog groomer. Some individuals provide a mobile grooming service fashioned out of a customized van and travel to their client’s homes. Other groomers travel the dog show circuit, providing services for competitors at major events and trade shows across the country.

Work Schedule

One of the benefits of this profession is the flexible hours, which may include weekends and holidays.

How to Get the Job

APPLY

Look at resources such as Indeed, SimplyHired, and iHireVeterinary for the latest job postings, which may include positions at veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and pet stores.

FIND A VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY

Contact animal care facilities, such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and breeders to inquire about volunteer work as a groomer. Check out Free For All, which has a search feature for locating volunteer work in your area.