by 
Maybe you are passionate about working with animals.
In that case, you should consider becoming a dog groomer in Washington.
This state offers many employment opportunities to those who enjoy being around dogs.
Article Table of Contents
Washington Requirements to Become a Dog Groomer
The first requirement for this job is to be a kind and compassionate individual.
Earn your accredited, affordable Pet and Dog Grooming Certificate online with Penn Foster in as little as 2 months!
You should enjoy caring for animals and have good physical stamina.
Dog groomers are required to have good communication skills and be sociable.
It is important that you are an organized and meticulous person.
Dog Grooming Duties and Responsibilities
Some duties you will need to complete each day include trimming the animal’s nails.
You might also have to shave their fur, or style it according to its breed.
You should know how to make sure the dog is not sick.
Some dog grooming companies might require CPR knowledge.
You should also know what products and tools you need to use on the dog.
Some other responsibilities include washing the dog, shaving its fur, and cleaning its ears.
Training and Certification in Washington
You do not need any special certification to become a dog groomer in Washington.
But, many dog grooming companies only hire candidates who have a license.
The easiest way to obtain one is by joining a training program through a trade school.
Some of the classes you will be required to take include the following:
- Introduction to grooming
- Grooming dogs
- Grooming cats
- Tools to use
- Breed and coat recognition
- Safety precautions and first aid
- How to run a successful business
- Grooming matted fur and troublesome breeds
- Anatomy and biology
Before you choose a school, ensure it is accredited by The National Dog Groomers Association of America.
Many programs only last for less than 2 months, but you can also pursue higher education.
Better credentials will also increase your chances of finding a good job.
A specialization will require you to enroll in a program that lasts about a year.
Luckily, you can attend a program online if you are too busy to join in person.
When you complete the training program, you also need to sit for some exams.
The exams will consist of the theory and practice classes you took during the program.
Your certification will be issued after you pass the required tests.
If you don’t want to attend a training course, you can also get training while being hired.
However, this method generally takes longer.
Employment and Salary Information
Salaries for dog groomers in Washington vary, depending on experience and location.
The average wage in this state is about $37,109 per year.
After getting certified, you can get hired in a dog grooming salon, pet store, or animal hospital.
If you want to be able to earn more, consider starting your own dog grooming business.
But, owning a business will require a separate business license as well as more knowledge.
Those who work for a bigger employer also have better job prospects.
In metropolitan areas of Washington, dog groomers make more money compared to rural areas.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $38,012 |
| Spokane | $34,468 |
| Tacoma | $37,043 |
| Vancouver | $36,224 |
| Bellevue | $38,012 |
| Kent | $36,969 |
| Everett | $37,179 |
| Renton | $37,975 |
| Federal Way | $37,043 |
| Yakima | $34,391 |
Regional Salary in Washington
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellingham, WA | 220 | $38,040 | $18.29 | $43,910 | $33,420 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale, WA | 200 | $39,520 | $19 | $51,790 | $32,740 |
| Kennewick-Richland, WA | 140 | $41,500 | $19.95 | $54,190 | $32,740 |
| Longview, WA | 50 | $40,600 | $19.52 | $61,910 | $33,450 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA | 120 | $38,710 | $18.61 | $44,770 | $32,740 |
| Olympia-Tumwater, WA | 240 | $39,260 | $18.87 | $47,050 | $33,030 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | 3,750 | $42,140 | $20.26 | $56,150 | $35,480 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA | 360 | $37,950 | $18.25 | $44,250 | $32,740 |
| Wenatchee, WA | 80 | $37,790 | $18.17 | $44,880 | $32,740 |
| Yakima, WA | 100 | $38,010 | $18.27 | $44,290 | $32,740 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Dog Grooming Schools in Washington
Earn your accredited, affordable Pet and Dog Grooming Certificate online with Penn Foster in as little as 2 months!
School Name
Address
MASER'S ACADEMY OF FINE GROOMING
6515 NE 181st Kenmore, WA 98028
Doggie Armour
4/51 Belvidere St, Belmont WA 6104, Australia
Additional Information
Once you received your dog grooming license, you should be able to get employed quite fast.
In case you might need more professional resources, check out the National Dog Groomers Association of America.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Dog / Pet Groomer
Dog Grooming by State
My area doesn’t have any dog groomers and I would like to know more about the requirements for Washington state to become certified. Thank u Fur Baby lovers and friends.