Duties

• First and foremost a groomer is responsible for bathing, cutting and styling a dog's coat. They also trim nails and clean around the eyes and ears. In retail settings, they may be required to talk with customers, schedule appointments, answer phones and handle money. In shelters, they may need to inform veterinarians of any infections, wounds or other health issues they find while cleaning the dogs. For competitions, they are in charge of making sure all haircuts meet exact breed standards so that the dog is not disqualified.
  
  

Training

• There are about 50 accredited dog grooming schools in the United States, where students can take a four- to 18-week course and earn a diploma. This is not necessary to become a dog groomer, however. Many serve a six- to 10-week informal apprenticeship at a grooming business under an experienced groomer and then are allowed to work on their own once they have proven themselves proficient. The National Dog Groomers Association of America offers certification testing, but this is not necessary for most basic grooming jobs.
  
  

Positions

• Dog groomers can find employment at a variety of places, including pet supply stores, animal shelters, veterinary offices and mobile grooming services. Some groomers start their own businesses and provide services out of their own homes, while others travel to different areas to provide grooming for dogs in competitions.
  
  

Warnings

• Working with animals carries a higher level of danger than some other careers. As a dog groomer, you are required to lift, restrain and control animals that may resist these proceedings. The probability of getting scratched or bitten is high.