How to Become a Dog Groomer

In recent years the dog grooming industry has continued to thrive and grow, presenting more opportunities than ever before for dog lovers and those looking for a job working with animals to enjoy a career with huge potential. In the UK most households have a dog and these days it is not just the specific breeds like poodles or bichon frise that need a haircut. These days it is easy to take your boxer or labrador for a bath and brush than attempt it at home so the dog grooming industry now caters for all breeds in every shape and size. Furthermore, the more people own dogs the higher the demand for dog grooming services.

Dog groomers work with a huge variety of dog breeds and the grooming process involves bathing, brushing , clipping, scissoring and styling, nail clipping and ear cleaning to ensure the dogs leave you looking their best. Courses that cover animal health care enables you to obtain knowledge on understanding the overall health and well being of the animals in your care and the types of shampoos and products that will be suitable for particular dogs for instance with sensitive skin or other health concerns.

So, if you are considering becoming a dog groomer then our guide is designed to help you understand what it entails and what it takes to forge a career in this industry.

How do I get started learning how to become a dog groomer?

Becoming a dog groomer is not something that you can move into overnight. Dog grooming courses have been designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and techniques that you will need to secure your dream job. It is important to pick a well established and reputable school with qualified tutors and to make sure the course curriculum covers all you will need to know and that they have an adequate bank of model dogs so that the training is hands on and practical. This is essential to master the dog handling skills and different styles of the different breeds.

The duration of the course is also important . Some schools offer 2 week courses but this is only a basic introductory course and you will not learn all the skills required in that amount of time. We offer a Professional Diploma in Dog Grooming course which is a 5 week course, and every day for 5 weeks is essential so that the student is competent and well equipped by the end of the course, and able to then get started straight away.

Any good school should offer a course in first aid and animal health as any would be groomer needs to have an understanding in this area before embarking on a career as a dog groomer.

Once you are qualified there are many different paths you can follow. You could go on to work for a dog grooming salon or a reputable chain such The Groom Rooms at Pets at Home. Usually you would only be considered for a job if you have a qualification and have completed a dog grooming course and have the overall basic skills required.

A large percentage of people go on to set up their own business and there are many options. Setting up your own salon, working from home in a summer house or converted shed in the garden or from a converted garage which gives you the flexibility to work the hours that suit you without the commute to work. Others prefer to go mobile in a van.

This is not just a profession for the young as it is a popular choice for the more mature student looking for a change of career. A course that offers help and guidance on setting up your own business is advantageous.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Dog Groomer?

Is Dog Grooming right for me?

Please email us at salon@groomingcourses.co.uk if you have any questions or wish to book a visit to see us.