If you are someone who absolutely loves dogs and their cute company, a dog grooming career is something you might already have considered. After all, not only does this profession let you make plenty of furry friends and be around them but it’s also very rewarding financially.
Nevertheless, this is also a creative and hands-on job that requires skill, dedication, and training.
So, like all pet enthusiasts and wannabe groomers, the question about how to become a dog groomer would be looming on your mind.
And that’s exactly why I’ve compiled a detailed yet simple guide with 5 easy steps you can follow to become a dog groomer. Also, I’ve shared my own insights as a mobile groomer in Memphis.
Read on, and know how do you become a dog groomer from start to finish.
Why should you become a dog groomer in the first place?
Before I talk about how to become a dog groomer, it’s essential you have a clear idea as to why you should choose this as a career.
You see, no matter how big a pet lover someone is, dog grooming isn’t for everyone. That’s because beyond the common misconception that grooming is all about a dog wash or haircut, it also involves working on a dog’s health, hygiene, and overall well being.
Not to mention, you’ve also got to build a strong relationship with the pets and their owners, more so if you’re doing pet daycare overnight. Meaning, your work involves a fusion of customer service and animal care.
Simply put, if you bond well with animals and enjoy working with them, dog grooming might be the perfect fit for you.
How to become a dog groomer from the start?
You’ve got what it takes to become a dog groomer and are convinced about this as your career path. Also, you might well be considering this as a hobby project.
And you’re asking yourself the obvious, i.e, how do i become a dog groomer?
Unfortunately, the more sources you go through the more you’re likely to get confused.
But rest easy as I’ve made it simple for you with just 5 steps that will teach you how to become a certified dog groomer.
So, let’s get started:
Step 1. Get a hands-on grooming experience
For a lot of folks wanting to become a dog groomer, a grooming school is the preferred first option. However, being a pet care expert myself I strongly suggest you not enrol yourself straight away.
Instead, it’s better to gain hands-on grooming experience first by volunteering with a pet salon or a reputed groomer. After all, it is here that you’ll learn how to do dog grooming essentials like handling, bathing, and prepping and build necessary foundational skills.
Also, it goes without saying that you’ll get a feel for the industry which will help you determine if pet grooming is really for you.
Step 2. Enrol yourself with a school
Once you’ve gained both experience and insights on how to groom pets, I suggest you enrol yourself with a pet grooming school. That’s because formal training offers comprehensive programs that cover everything from breed-specific cuts to health and safety.
Herein, you’ll receive both classroom instruction and hands-on training. And this will prepare you for real-world scenarios that you might face as a pet groomer.
Pro tip: Don’t enrol into a dog grooming school online as you’ll miss out on practical training here.
Step 3. Get certifications from reputed organizations
A dog grooming certification isn’t legally required in all the states. Meaning, if you are wondering whether or not do you have to be certified to groom dogs, the answer is mostly no.
But that said, obtaining a certificate from a reputed institution will also boost your credibility and increase your employability.
For instance, let’s say you get a certificate from the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) or the International Professional Groomers (IPG). Now, this will make you a highly credible and go-to groomer for pet parents compared to those who don’t have a certification.
Step 4. Go for an apprenticeship
There are seasoned pet grooming professionals who offer both paid and unpaid apprenticeships. And an apprentice with them will teach you industry secrets, refine your skills, and offer invaluable mentorship.
In fact, an apprentice or on-the-job training can be just as effective as formal schooling. This is especially true if you are looking for practical experience.
Step 5. Obtain a dog grooming license
I am often asked do you need a license to groom dogs. And let me tell you that this is a gray area since licensing requirements will depend on the state you want to operate in.
Like certification, licensing is also not legally required in all the states. However, states like Texas might still require specific licenses for you to operate as a groomer.
So, it’s best to check with your local government or regulatory board to know if you need any licenses. After all, not only will this protect your business but also assure clients of your professionalism.
What skills do you need for becoming a dog groomer?
So far, you know how to become a dog groomer starting off as a beginner. However, it is not just about following the steps as you’ll also need to develop some dog grooming skills.
For instance, grooming demands a mix of technical and soft skills, something you’ll have to hone.
All in all, here’s how you can become a dog groomer with all the required skills:
A. Be patient
You’ll agree when I say that dogs can be unpredictable at times. And erratic behavior apart, a lot of dogs don’t really enjoy being groomed.
Nevertheless, as a dog groomer it will still be your responsibility to groom and care for such dogs which might include washing or making them wear t shirt for dogs. To that end, you’ll have to be patient with the dog, make them feel comfortable, and groom them at their own pace.
B. Have attention to detail
As a groomer, you will work on maintaining both the appearance and health of not one but many dogs. This calls for precision in grooming which comes with training and experience.
But at the least, you’ll need to have attention to detail and make sure you notice the smallest of issues.
C. Develop physical stamina
Dog grooming is a physically demanding job. So much so that once you become a dog groomer, you’ll spend hours on your feet.
This will include lifting dogs, managing grooming equipment, etc., to name a few.
After all, unlike someone boarding their dog overnight for the first time, grooming calls for active involvement with the dog. Meaning you’ll have to develop a physical stamina to handle all the work and do it without overwhelming yourself.
D. Learn animal handling
Although animal handling will be taught to you at the grooming school, it’s real-world experience that comes more handy here.
For instance, you’ll have to understand dog behavior and handling techniques to ensure a safe and comfortable grooming environment.
E. Gain customer service skills
Pet grooming also demands basic customer service skills which include communicating effectively with pet owners. And this is crucial for building trust and client loyalty.
So, apart from grooming, customer service skill is also one thing you’ll have to learn.
How to obtain a dog grooming license?
As I mentioned earlier, whether or not do you need a license to groom dogs will depend on the state you want to work in.
Now, let’s say you are planning to work in a state where a dog groomers license is mandatory. In this case, you’ll have to obtain one before you can get a job or start working independently.
And here’s how you can do the same:
- Go through local regulations: Visit your state’s official website or contact a local business bureau to get details on grooming licenses.
- Complete required training: A proof of training completion from an accredited grooming school might be necessary for licensing purposes. Meaning you’ll have to complete the training and get a certificate.
- Pass examination if needed: Certain states require a practical or written exam for dog grooming. Here, you’ll have to showcase your skills in pet safety and animal care standards.
- Submit an application: Fill out your application form and provide any required documentation like training certificates or proof of insurance.
- Renew your license regularly: Once you’ve obtained a license, you’ll have to renew it periodically.
Frequently asked questions about becoming a dog groomer
How to become a dog groomer without a degree?
You don’t need a formal degree to become a dog groomer. In fact, a lot of groomers I know never really had a specialized course.
However, you’ll still need to get hands-on experience which comes from volunteering and apprenticing. Also, certifications from the likes of the National Dog Groomers Association of America or International Professional Groomers can help you a great deal showcasing your skills.
How do you become a pet groomer in general?
Apart from dog grooming, you might also want to become an all-round pet groomer and expand your career to include grooming pets like cats.
And the process for this will be pretty much similar to what I’ve explained above where you’ll have to become experienced, gain certification, learn animal handling, and more.
How much can you earn as a dog groomer?
As per the latest industry figures, you can earn in the range of $30,000 to $50,000 annually as a dog groomer.
However, if you chart out as a self-employed groomer, you can earn a lot more depending on your client base.
What equipment do you need for dog grooming?
Dog grooming doesn’t call for specialized equipment. So, all you need are basic grooming tools including clippers, scissors, brushes, combs, nail trimmers, and dryers.
Nevertheless, investing in high-quality tools can increase your efficiency and results.
Conclusion
By now, you know everything about how to become a dog groomer from the beginning. Also, you know what skills you need and when you might need a license.
Need more assistance with becoming dog groomer or need a seasoned groomer for your pet?
You can get in touch with us!
At Dawg Team Apparel USA, we are a team of seasoned pet groomers with years of expertise. Also, our dog store online features everything from pet apparel to grooming materials to pregnancy kits, and more.
In short, we’ve got all your dog care and grooming needs covered.
