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Dog Groomer

Do you want to become a Dog Groomer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Many dogs need professional grooming and this is carried out by a dog groomer. Their job is to maintain the condition of dogs' coats through regular clipping, trimming and grooming. Groomers also advise owners on grooming, diet and coat care.

A groomer:

• obtains details of what type of grooming is needed
• assesses the dog's condition
• checks the dog's skin, eyes, ears, mouth, nose, feet and nails
• uses instruments such as electric clippers or a stripping knife to trim the dog into the right shape
• brushes or combs through before a final trim with sharp scissors.

New dog groomers earn around £8,000 a year, which can increase to £10,000 or more with experience.

Grooming one dog can take up to two hours. The work is mostly indoors, based in a shop or similar premises. In a salon, dog groomers normally work 35 hours a week, Monday to Saturday, with a day off during the week. Self-employed groomers may work longer hours.

A dog groomer should:

• have a strong interest in the health and welfare of dogs
• have the confidence to handle any size of dog
• be able to calm nervous dogs
• be careful and responsible
• be fit and strong.

Experience with dogs is an advantage but there are usually no academic qualifications required for courses or jobs in dog grooming. Some employers may ask for GCSEs/S grades or equivalent if training through a modern apprenticeship or support for NVQs/SVQs or City and Guilds examinations is being offered.

There are few, if any, opportunities for promotion. Once they are fully trained and have some experience, many dog groomers set up on their own. Some move into lecturing on dog grooming courses, or into other work with dogs such as assistance dog training.

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