How to Become a Dog Groomer in Delaware

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How to Become a Dog Groomer in Delaware

In Delaware, a high number of people own one dog or more.

As the dogs need grooming from time to time, the dog grooming industry became more popular.

If you feel this is the right career for you, check out the article below.

You will be provided info on how to get started, and how to become successful in this sector.

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Job Description and Duties

As a dog groomer, there are many responsibilities you will need to take.

Some tasks you will be required to complete daily include:

  • Clip a dog’s nails
  • Bath the dog
  • Style its fur
  • Clean the dog’s ears
  • Be skilled in managing the dog
  • Stand on your feet for many hours at a time

Before you can get hired in a facility of your choice, you will also need to:

  • Which devices are required based on the type of job
  • How to use the devices
  • The dog’s best look based on its breed
  • How to clean the dog’s ears properly
  • Be a good communicator

You will have to get used to cleaning the work area after each dog gets groomed.

The tools you use on the job will also need to be cleaned and disinfected according to regulations.

Job Requirements

If you want to be a dog groomer, you will be required to have some skills:

  • Be patient
  • Have solid communication skills
  • Be able to spend time around people
  • Being compassionate and empathetic
  • Love animals

Even if you are a dog groomer, you may be expected to also work with cats.

What cats need is different than what dogs need, and you will have to get familiar with the differences.

Grooming a cat commonly involves:

  • Trimming the claws of the cat
  • Giving the cat a bath
  • Brushing the cat
  • Shave off the fur
  • Style the cat’s coat
  • Clean the cat’s ears

Education and Licensing

In order to work as a pet groomer in Delaware, you do not need to have a license or any type of certification.

However, you will need training so you can develop your skills.

In addition, many employers do not hire people who have no training or certification.

In this state, the dog grooming certifications are managed by the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA).

The organization offers 2 certifications, which are:

  • Certified Dog Groomer
  • Master Dog Groomer

To get either of the certifications above, you need to attend a training program.

The training program will be followed by a practical application test.

You will also need to take and pass an exam that assesses your knowledge.

During class, you will study topics such as the following:

  • Introduction to Pet Grooming
  • Introduction to Dogs and Cats
  • Pre-Grooming Procedures
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Personalities and Behavior
  • Cat Grooming
  • Business Practices

Salary expectations in Delaware

An entry-level dog grooming position in this state usually pays around $23,681 per year.

However, as you gain experience, you will be able to make on average, between $36,433 and $53,693 a year.

Currently in Milford dog groomers earn the highest average salary.

Annual Salary Range:
$23K
$36K
$53K
10%
50%
90%
Annual Salary by Location:
Location Avg. Annual Salary
Wilmington $36,988
Dover $36,932
Newark $36,960
Bear $36,946
Middletown $36,875
Hockessin $36,988
Smyrna $36,891
Milford $37,023
Claymont $36,988
Seaford $36,259

Regional Salary in Delaware

Region Employed Avg. Annual Salary Avg. Hourly Pay Top 10% Annual Salary Bottom 10% Annual Salary
Dover, DE140$30,920$14.87$38,030$24,440
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Animal Caretakers, OCC Code 39-2021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Additional Information

If you need extra job resources, check out the below associations:

  • Delaware Humane Association
  • Dog Groomers.com Delaware
  • NDGAA

USA Dog Grooming by State


One Comment
  1. Avatar for Patricia Merrick Patricia Merrick

    Do u offer dog grooming

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Earn your accredited, affordable Pet and Dog Grooming Certificate online with Penn Foster in as little as 2 months!

See more details >>Sponsored