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Entry Level Dog Grooming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experienced Dog Groomer

Cary, NC · On-site

$200 - $300/day

... an entry level position Tues-Saturday 8:30- 5:15 Responsibilities: * Perform full-service dog grooming including bathing, drying, brushing, and haircuts * Execute breed-specific cuts and custom ...

Experienced Dog Groomer

Cary, NC · On-site

$200 - $300/day

... an entry level position Tues-Saturday 8:30- 5:15 Responsibilities: * Perform full-service dog grooming including bathing, drying, brushing, and haircuts * Execute breed-specific cuts and custom ...

Opportunities to advance to Groomer's Assistant and eventually Groomer * Share of tips Job Summary We are looking for a Dog Bather to join the team at our busy groomers. You will bathe dogs of all ...

Opportunities to advance to Groomer's Assistant and eventually Groomer * Share of tips Job Summary We are looking for a Dog Bather to join the team at our busy groomers. You will bathe dogs of all ...

Opportunities to advance to Groomer's Assistant and eventually Groomer * Share of tips Job Summary We are looking for a Dog Bather to join the team at our busy groomers. You will bathe dogs of all ...

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Dog Trainer

Cinnaminson, NJ · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... life! Entry level Dog Training position available The opportunity to get hands on experience ... Grooming, caring for, and training dogs * Communicating with and teaching clients Feel free to ...

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Dog Trainer

Cinnaminson, NJ · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... life! Entry level Dog Training position available The opportunity to get hands on experience ... Grooming, caring for, and training dogs * Communicating with and teaching clients Feel free to ...

Signing bonus Signing Bonus! | Entry-Level Grooming Role! About the Position: The Dog Groomer is an integral position at Scenthound, offering grooming knowledge and providing grooming services to ...

Dog Bather

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

A Dog Bather is an essential member of a small in-house team, responsible for ensuring pets are ... Provide comfort and reassurance to pets during grooming Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level ...

... entry level position that will be the first step on your Scenthound journey. At Scenthound, we ... Dog Groomer, Assistant Manager, and Membership Sales Manager positions as we continue to expand in ...

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They prepare dogs for groomers, handle basic grooming like nail trims, paw trims, sanitary trims and ear cleaning, while maintaining a safe, sanitary workspace. Patience and the ability to safely ...

This is not an entry-level role . You need prior professional grooming experience. What you'll be doing * Full-service grooming for dogs (bath, haircut, nails, styling, etc.) * Keeping your workspace ...

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Entry Level Dog Grooming information

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$34

How much do entry level dog grooming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dog grooming in the United States is $22.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level dog grooming?

Entry level dog grooming refers to the basic care and cleaning services provided to dogs, typically performed by individuals who are just starting out in the grooming industry. This includes tasks such as bathing, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and sometimes basic hair trimming under supervision. Entry level groomers usually work under experienced professionals to gain hands-on experience and learn advanced grooming techniques. These positions are ideal for those who love animals and want to build a career in pet care. Training is often provided on the job, and certification may be encouraged or required depending on the employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level dog groomers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level dog groomers often encounter challenges like handling nervous or uncooperative pets, mastering grooming techniques, and building confidence with specialized tools. Patience and clear communication with both pets and their owners are crucial for creating a calm environment. Many beginners benefit from shadowing experienced groomers, participating in workshops, and seeking feedback to continually improve their skills. Over time, gaining hands-on experience helps new groomers become more comfortable with various dog breeds and coat types.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Dog Groomer, you need basic animal handling skills, knowledge of dog breeds and coat types, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools such as clippers, brushes, and shears, as well as on-the-job training or certification courses, is typically required. Patience, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help build trust with both pets and their owners. These abilities ensure the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of clients while supporting a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dog Grooming vs Pet Bather?

AspectEntry Level Dog GroomingPet Bather
Required CredentialsBasic grooming certification or trainingNone or minimal
Work EnvironmentGrooming salons, pet storesGrooming salons, kennels
Job ResponsibilitiesGrooming, trimming, bathing dogsBathing, brushing, preparing pets
Industry UsageCommonly searched for grooming careersOften confused but less specialized

Entry Level Dog Grooming involves performing grooming services like trimming and styling, often requiring certification. Pet Bather roles focus on bathing and basic pet care without extensive grooming skills. While both roles work in pet care environments, grooming positions typically demand more training and offer advanced responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right entry point into the pet grooming industry.

Where to start to become an entry level dog groomer?

To become an entry-level dog groomer, you should complete a grooming training program or apprenticeship to learn grooming techniques and safety procedures. Gaining hands-on experience with dogs and obtaining certifications from professional grooming organizations can improve job prospects. Basic skills in handling animals and familiarity with grooming tools are also important for starting in this field.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Dog Grooming job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,659 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Experienced Dog Groomer

BarkSuds

Cary, NC • On-site

$200 - $300/day

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

60% commission plus tips--this is not an entry level position
Tues-Saturday 8:30- 5:15
About the Role:
BarkSuds in Cary, NC is looking for a talented and passionate Dog Groomer to join our growing team! If you love working with dogs and take pride in making every pup look and feel their best, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Come be part of a fun, pet-loving environment where your skills truly shine.

60% commission plus tips--this is not an entry level position 
Tues-Saturday 8:30- 5:15 
Responsibilities:
  • Perform full-service dog grooming including bathing, drying, brushing, and haircuts
  • Execute breed-specific cuts and custom styling based on owner preferences
  • Safely handle dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments
  • Clean and maintain grooming tools, equipment, and workstation sanitation standards
  • Communicate with pet owners regarding grooming needs, coat condition, and recommendations
  • Perform nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing services
  • Monitor pets for signs of stress, illness, or skin conditions and report concerns appropriately
Requirements: 
  • Prior professional dog grooming experience preferred
  • Proficiency in breed-specific cuts and grooming techniques
  • Ability to safely handle and restrain dogs of all sizes and temperaments
  • Knowledge of grooming tools, equipment, and proper sanitation practices
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Genuine love and patience for working with animals
  • Grooming certification or formal training is a plus

At Barksuds we are looking for a talented hard working dog groomer who is a team player. (4 dog a day  minimum; youll work at your own pace; earning potential  is endless) We work hard but value a work life balance. We work five days a week and are closed on Sundays and Mondays. 
Come join our team!