What does a Pet Groomer do?

Pet groomers perform a range of tasks related to the grooming and care of domestic animals, primarily focusing on dogs and cats. They bathe the animals and give them flea baths and other treatments. They cut and style pet hair, using specific techniques to accommodate the needs of particular breeds. They trim nails and may give pedicures. They apply medicated shampoos and therapeutic lotions. Groomers are also frequently expected to sell pet grooming products and other merchandise.

Pet groomers should have experience with pet care and grooming, and often have a background of roles at a pet store or in a veterinary office. Certification as a pet groomer is an advantage. They must have experience providing care and grooming to a range of breeds. These roles require a dedication to caring for animals.

Education--
Work/Life Balance
2.9 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.1 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a Pet Groomer make near United States?

Confident
$58,653 /yr
Total Pay
$45,020
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$13,633
 /yr

Additional Pay

$58,653

 / yr
$36K$98K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Pet Groomer Career Path

Learn how to become a Pet Groomer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Pet Groomer
$58,653/yr
Pet Groomer III
$57,062/yr
Pet Groomer

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
35%
2 - 4
27%
5 - 7
1%
8+
37%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Pet Groomer Insights

Read what Pet Groomer professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Healthy SpotHealthy Spot
Dog Bather
Jun 10, 2022

“I enjoy the way everyone here is friendly to each other and to the pups.”

PetSmartPetSmart
Professional Dog Bather
May 14, 2021

“Opportunity to go to grooming school for free/get paid to go to grooming school and further your career.”

PetSmartPetSmart
Pet Groomer
Feb 5, 2022

“I made some really great friends in the salon working close together with them every day.”

Alpine Pet Grooming
Professional Dog Bather
Jun 23, 2023

“I would not recommend anyone to this salon considering she requires a 10 hour work day and only allows a 30 minute lunch.”

DOGUEDOGUE
Dog Groomer
Jun 9, 2021

“Education opportunities and development.”

Darla's Paw PrintsDarla's Paw Prints
Dog Groomer
Nov 5, 2021

“Even corporate grooming will treat you better than this and not expect you to work overtime.”

Aussie Pet MobileAussie Pet Mobile
Groomer Manager
Sep 6, 2023

“I love grooming by myself and not feeling that insane pressure to do as many dogs a day.”

PetsensePetsense
Pet Groomer
Apr 8, 2022

“I’ve been grooming for 4 years and have never seen groomers make such little money.”

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Pet Groomer Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Pet Groomer

The most similar professions to Pet Groomer are:
  • Veterinary Technician
  • Pet Trainer
  • Animal Care Technician
  • Sales Representative

Related Careers

Veterinary Technician
$44,861
No skills overlap
Pet Trainer
$46,163
Animal Care Technician
$39,347
Sales Representative
$105,832
No skills overlap

Pet Groomer Jobs