Dog grooming programs are developed to teach future groomers how to work with dogs of different breeds. They prepare groomers for work in kennels, vet offices, and grooming salons.
Dog groomer training requirements
To become a dog groomer, one does not have to comply with some formal education requirements, although most employers look for at least a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Training programs are also available through apprenticeship programs, which can be completed in six to 10 weeks. These programs teach students some basic grooming skills, such as haircutting, drying, bathing, dog handling, and nail clipping, all under the watchful eye of licensed groomers. It is also important for future dog groomers to obtain their training only from a state-approved school.
During training programs, the typical courses that students cover include clinical techniques, kennel management, bathing, canine anatomy, dog care and welfare, and nail and ear care. Some programs also take up topics such as safety procedures, pet personalities, and body structure. Even courses about bites, tumors, and other issues that concern animal health may be discussed, especially since these are mostly discovered in dogs during grooming or bathing.
Online Programs for Dog Groomers
Professional dog groomers may pursue a career in the field starting with an online dog grooming program. This may take four to 12 weeks to complete. The program requires students to determine and understand what different dog breeds need so they will know the right handling and care to provide. Basic grooming techniques, such as scissoring, brushing, washing, and even providing unique cuts, are covered in the online programs. Some of these programs encourage students to use special skills like scissoring, hand-stripping, de-shedding, and carding at school or at a grooming salon.
Animal Grooming Schools in the US
Some of the grooming schools that future dog groomers may consider include the North Shore Community College, Cornerstone Dog Grooming Academy, and Merryfield School of Pet Grooming. The other schools for potential dog groomers are Rio Gran Grooming School, Paragon School of Pet Grooming, Texas Allbreed Grooming School, Golden Paws Pet Styling Academy. The Dapper Dawg School of Professional Pet Grooming, Michigan School of K-9 Cosmetology, and Clip Shoppe School of Dog Grooming completed the top ten list.
Dog Groomer Certification Requirements
After completing a dog grooming program, dog groomers have to look for work and gain experience. They might find work as a dog grooming assistant or as a shadow to some experienced dog groomers. They can spruce up their resume as well by grooming the pets of family friends and relatives.
Dog groomers with high career aspirations may want to pursue the National Certified Master Groomer credential, awarded by the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA). The certification shows that a dog groomer has completed an accredited workshop, executed practical skills through demos, and passed the written exams.
Another certification program worth considering is the certification from the International Professional Groomers, Inc. It is called the International Model of Pet Grooming distinction, which has more rigorous requirements of four written exams plus five demonstrations. Only those who get at least 86% in the exams will become International Certified Master Groomers.