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Apprentice Dog Grooming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Support apprentice development and contribute to a high-performing training team. * Model ... Use hands and fingers for training, handling, grooming, and data entry. * Work indoors and outdoors ...

You are expected to do only haircuts unless there is not a Bather, Apprentice Groomer, or Assistant ... Experience grooming dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. * Ability to learn and adhere to the ...

You are expected to do only haircuts unless there is not a Bather, Apprentice Groomer, or Assistant ... Experience grooming dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. * Ability to learn and adhere to the ...

... school/apprenticeship a plus) * Strong grooming portfolio showcasing skills and creativity * Comfortable working with all dog breeds in a fast-paced environment * Enjoys grooming challenges and ...

... school/apprenticeship a plus) * Strong grooming portfolio showcasing skills and creativity * Comfortable working with all dog breeds in a fast-paced environment * Enjoys grooming challenges and ...

Support the broader team by mentoring Grooming Assistants and Apprentices * Participate in training ... Comfortable lifting and handling dogs up to 50 lbs * Comfortable working in wet, loud, high-energy ...

Support the broader team by mentoring Grooming Assistants and Apprentices * Participate in training ... Comfortable lifting and handling dogs up to 50 lbs * Comfortable working in wet, loud, high-energy ...

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a ... Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors

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Apprentice Dog Grooming information

See salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice dog grooming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 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 are apprentice dog groomers?

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.
More about Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Dog Grooming job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Grooming jobs? The most popular types of Dog Grooming jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Dog Grooming jobs are:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Dog Grooming job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, and 64% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Groomer

PAWS AND CLAWS SPA LLC

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Contractor

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

​A pet groomer is responsible for the overall hygiene and appearance of pets, primarily dogs and cats. They provide a range of services to keep animals healthy, clean, and well-groomed, while also ensuring their safety and comfort.

​A typical job description for a pet groomer would include the following:

​Duties and Responsibilities:

​Grooming Services:

​Bathing, brushing, and drying pets.

​Trimming, clipping, and styling fur according to breed standards or owner's requests.

​De-shedding and detangling matted fur.

​Clipping or filing nails.

​Cleaning ears and brushing teeth.

​Applying flea and tick treatments.

​Expressing anal glands (if required).

​Animal Health and Safety:

​Observing and identifying potential health issues, such as skin conditions, parasites, infections, or injuries, and reporting them to the pet owner.

​Handling animals with care, patience, and compassion, especially those that may be anxious or difficult.

​Ensuring the safety of all pets throughout the grooming process.

​Maintaining a clean and sanitary work environment, including cleaning and sterilizing grooming tools and equipment.

​Customer Service:

​Communicating effectively with pet owners to understand their specific grooming requests and preferences.

​Providing recommendations on grooming styles, products, and at-home care.

​Building a positive rapport with both pets and their owners.

​Scheduling and managing appointments.

​Skills and Qualifications:

​Experience: Prior experience in pet 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 breeds and their specific grooming needs.

​Technical Skills: Proficiency in using grooming tools such as clippers, scissors, brushes, and bathing equipment.

​Soft Skills:

​Excellent communication and customer service skills.

​Patience, compassion, and a genuine love for animals.

​Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.

​Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift animals of various sizes.

​Certifications (Preferred but not always required):

​Certification from a recognized grooming school or organization (e.g., National Dog Groomers Association of America).

​Knowledge of pet first aid and CPR is a plus.