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Apprentice Dog Grooming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Puppy Paws Hotel & Spa

Grooming Apprentice

Edmond, OK · On-site

Do you LOVE Dogs? Then Puppy Paws Hotel and Spa is the place for you! Do you CARE deeply and have a ... apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to apply for entry into our exclusive Academy Grooming ...

Puppy Paws Hotel & Spa

Grooming Apprentice

Edmond, OK · On-site

Salary: $15.00 Do you LOVE Dogs? Then Puppy Paws Hotel and Spa is the place for you! Do you CARE ... apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to apply for entry into our exclusive Academy Grooming ...

Meyers Pet Care

Assistant Groomer

Roscoe, IL · On-site

ASSISTANT GROOMER | Are you a HUGE dog lover? Are you afraid of hard work... because we aren't ... apprenticeship program available here at Meyer's. We want to help you grow. There will be ...

Pet Pros

Professional Groomer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$20 - $31/hr

Familiarity with dog breeds and American Kennel Club (AKC) grooming standards * Strong customer ... Previous bathing experience required (or completion of internal apprenticeship program) * Associate ...

PAWS AND CLAWS SPA LLC

Groomer

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

... grooming, either through an internship, apprenticeship, or professional employment. ​Knowledge: A solid understanding of animal behavior and handling techniques. Knowledge of various dog and cat ...

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Apprentice Dog Grooming information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice dog grooming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice dog grooming in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice dog groomer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Dog Groomer, you need basic animal handling skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn grooming techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools like clippers, shears, brushes, and pet-safe cleaning products is typically required, and some employers may value certification in pet first aid. Patience, strong communication, and a calm demeanor are crucial soft skills for working with animals and their owners. These competencies ensure the safety and comfort of pets, build client trust, and lay the foundation for career advancement in pet care.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice dog groomers, and how can they be overcome?

As an apprentice dog groomer, you may encounter challenges such as handling anxious or uncooperative dogs, learning to use grooming tools safely, and keeping up with a fast-paced schedule. It's important to develop patience, communicate calmly with both pets and their owners, and seek feedback from experienced groomers. Over time, practicing proper techniques and observing seasoned professionals will help you build confidence and efficiency in your daily tasks.

What is the difference between Apprentice Dog Grooming vs Pet Groomer?

AspectApprentice Dog GroomingPet Groomer
CredentialsOn-the-job training, no formal certification required initiallyCertifications or licenses may be preferred or required
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised grooming salons, pet storesProfessional grooming salons, pet care facilities, mobile grooming
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position, training role within pet grooming industryFull professional role, providing grooming services to clients

Apprentice Dog Grooming is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining skills under supervision, while Pet Groomer is a fully qualified professional providing grooming services independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a pet groomer by developing necessary skills and certifications.

What is an apprentice dog groomer?

Apprentice dog groomers are individuals who are training to become professional dog groomers by learning on the job under the supervision of experienced groomers. Their duties typically include bathing, brushing, drying, nail trimming, and basic grooming tasks while they develop the skills needed for more advanced grooming work. Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience and often combine practical training with classroom instruction, helping apprentices understand animal behavior, grooming techniques, and safety procedures.
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Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Dog Grooming job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Pet Grooming Apprentice

Pet Supplies Plus - Wiscon Pet

Madison, WI • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Pet insurance
  • Annual retention bonus
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Splish, splash FIDO needs a bath. Are you up for wet wagging tails and flying suds? Are you interested in learning to become a Pet Groomer, Dog Groomer, or Grooming Technician and building a career working with pets?
As a Bather / Student Groomer, you’re pawsitively passionate about people and their pets. You will deliver exceptional, neighborly service while supporting the pet grooming salon and learning the skills needed to become a professional dog groomer. Whether you’re encouraging a bulldog to “gimme the shake,” getting hands-on with grooming tools and equipment, or helping a pet look and feel their best, you play a key role in creating a safe, fun, and pet care environment where both pets and people thrive.
What You’ll Do
  • Deliver exceptional, neighborly customer service to every pet and pet parent
  •  Bathe, brush, dry, and assist with dog grooming services such as nail trims
  •  Learn proper pet grooming techniques, tools, and breed standards
  • Support the grooming salon team and assist with daily operations
  •  Ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of all pets in your care
  •  Maintain a clean, safe, and organized grooming environment
  • Build relationships with neighbors by understanding their pets’ needs
  • Recommend pet products and services to support pet health and wellness
  •  Assist store team members as needed during grooming downtime
You May Be a Great Fit If You
  • Love working with dogs and people
  • Are comfortable in a fast-paced, hands-on environment (including water, fur, and active pets)
  • Have strong attention to detail and a focus on safety
  • Enjoy learning new skills and are open to coaching and feedback
  • Have experience in animal care, veterinary clinics, pet boarding, or daycare environments
  • Background as a Veterinary Technician, Vet Assistant, Animal Care Technician, Kennel Assistant or Pet Care Specialist
  • Interest in growing into a Pet Groomer or Dog Groomer role
  • Patience, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm to guide nervous pets
Requirements and Responsibilities
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Previous experience in pet care, animal handling, retail, or customer service is a plus, but not required
  •  Ability to lift, move, and handle pets or equipment up to 65 lbs
  •  Ability to stand, bend, and stoop for extended periods
  •  Ability to learn through hands-on training and online grooming coursework
  • Comfortable using grooming tools and salon equipment (training provided)
  •  Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
  •  Must be 18+ years old and able to meet hiring requirements set by the local franchise owner