Job Spotlight

How to become a Dog Groomer

Dog Groomers care for dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes. They are responsible for washing, clipping, grooming and styling their fur, as well as cleaning and clipping their claws, helping them live comfortably and look fabulous.

If you’re great with human and canine customers, have a steady hand, and lots of patience, this career could be a match made in heaven.

About you:

Excellent customer service skills
Good work ethic
Reasonably fit and healthy
Tolerant and not too squeamish
Great hand-eye coordination
Confident using a variety of tools.

The job:

Work on dogs’ ears, fur, and nails in a clean and safe environment and manner
Clean and maintain equipment and working areas
Make and record bookings
Recommend products and treatments
Care for animals whilst in your care.

Lifestyle Impact: Low

Part Time opportunities: High – around 65% of Dog Groomers work part-time (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
Average hours for full-time workers: 42 hours a week, which is average (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
Dog Groomers’ salary (median) $26,000* per year (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au). *Salaries vary depending on your skills and experience.
Future career growth: Very strong (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
You can work in a variety of environments, including in veterinary clinics, from a specialist pet salon, run a business from your own home, or operate a mobile dog grooming service and travel to customers.

Dog Groomers are most in demand in these locations:

Demand for Dog Groomers is spread evenly across Australia. Most Dog Groomers work in the Retail Trade industry.

How to become a Dog Groomer in Australia

There are no formal qualification requirements to become a Dog Groomer in Australia, but it is recommended to get some courses under your belt. While online courses are available, it would probably be worth finding courses where you can get hands on experience.

Step 1 – Get work experience with handling animals and grooming if possible while at high school.

Step 2 – Do short courses or workshops that will give you basic knowledge of canine health and anatomy, as well as precision grooming and styling techniques.

Step 3 – Undertake formal qualifications, such as:

Step 4 – Licensing isn’t a legal requirement for Dog Groomers in Australia, but you could apply to become a member of the Pet Industry Association of Australia; it could improve your business prospects and cover you from liability.

Step 5 – Start your own business, become a specialist dog breed groomer, or work towards qualifying as a certified Master Groomer.

Find out more here –

https://www.piaa.net.au/

https://www.dgawa.com.au/about/

Similar Careers to Dog Groomer

Business Owner

Pet Groomer

Dog Trainer

Professional Dog Handler

RSPCA Inspector

Animal Shelter Worker

Vet Nurse

Retail Worker

Find out more about alternative careers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I become a Dog Groomer?

There are no formal qualification requirements to become a Dog Groomer, but it is recommended that you do some training, as there’s a lot to learn. You could complete a Certificate II in as little as 12 months.

What do Dog Groomers do?

Dog Groomers provide lots of services including brushing, clipping, styling, de-tangling, and thinning dogs’ coats, as well as hygiene services such as toothbrushing, ear cleaning, and nail cleaning and trimming.

Where do Dog Groomers work?

Dog Groomers can work in kennels, shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics, bespoke facilities, mobile “salons” or in their clients’ homes.

Is Dog Grooming like being a hairdresser?

Not really, no. There are different skills and techniques required.

Do I need to be qualified to start my own pet grooming business?

In Australia there are currently no formal qualifications required, but obtaining recognised qualifications and practical knowledge of the industry could help keep your business do better, avoid injuring dogs, and prevent you from being sued.

The Study Work Grow Research Team

PO Box 109, Redlynch, QLD 4870 Phone: 0432 860 108 Email: lucy@studyworkgrow.com.au Find us online – www.studyworkgrow.com.au