How to Become a Dog Groomer in Colorado

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If you like being around animals, becoming a dog groomer could be the right job for you.

But, before that, you should have an idea about the requirements needed to start this career.

So, read on for some info!

Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Colorado

There are several job duties a dog groomer has to complete, which include the following:

  • Cutting, clipping, and styling a dog’s coat
  • Bathing dogs
  • Clipping a dog’s nails
  • Interacting with dog owners
  • Knowing the hygienic care for each dog breed
  • Teeth brushing
  • Knowing how to restrain animals
  • Calming the dogs
  • Identify problem areas

Other job responsibilities include:

  • Cleaning and maintenance of your workplace
  • Cleaning and maintaining your tools
  • Knowing which tools to use for what task
  • Safely operating the tools
  • Staying updated with styling trends
  • Staying informed on the industry changes

Dog Groomer Job Requirements in Colorado

The most important aspect regarding this job is your love for animals, and for dogs in particular.

You will also need to have a set of skills that will help you in your day-to-day job.

For instance, you should have good communication skills and good at interacting with dog owners.

You will have to give them advice regarding how to groom the dog at home and keep the animal clean.

Some other needed skills are empathy and patience.

You should be able to empathize with the dog and its owners and keep your calm in dealing with animals.

Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Colorado

In this state, there is no specific requirement regarding training and certification for dog groomers.

However, there are some benefits to getting a dog grooming certification.

One of these is finding a job easier as most employers require their dog groomers to have some experience in the field.

Dog Groomers’ Education in Colorado

In Colorado, there are many facilities where you can train in order to get certified.

While training, you will take classes of theory but also clinical practice.

The programs for a dog groomer usually cover the following subjects:

  • Introduction to Pet Grooming
  • Introduction to Dogs and Cats
  • Pre-Grooming Procedures
  • Dog Grooming, Part 1
  • Dog Grooming, Part 2
  • Dog Grooming, Part 3
  • Dog Personalities and Behavior
  • Cat Grooming
  • Business Practices

These programs can concentrate more on the clinical practice aspect because you will need practical experience to get hired.

Sometimes, dog groomers have to also offer grooming services to cats.

Dog Groomers’ Certification in Colorado

After you complete your training program, you will probably need to take an exam.

This exam will assess your skills and help you get better credentials for your future employee.

The dog grooming certification is the only one you need to have in order to get hired.

However, if you are considering running your own business, you will need a commercial license.

To get it, you need to read the laws at the federal and state level in order to find out the requirements.

Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Colorado

In Colorado, you can get hired in many dog grooming facilities after you obtain a license.

Some of these include but are not limited to:

  • Dog rescues
  • Veterinary clinics
  • Pet grooming salons
  • Pet shops
  • Dog daycare centers

How much you earn as a dog groomer depends on many factors.

For example, you will make more if you live in a big city or populated area.

You will also earn a higher salary if you have a certification and some work experience.

This is also the case for dog groomers who decide to start their own business.

Annual Salary Range:
$29K
$35K
$44K

Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Colorado

City NameSalary
Denver$36,301
Colorado Springs$35,701
Aurora$36,201
Jefferson$36,101
Fort Collins$34,901
Arvada$36,301
Pueblo$33,301
Westminster$36,301
Boulder$36,701
Thornton$36,301
* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in Colorado

RegionEmployedAvg. Annual SalaryAvg. Hourly PayTop 10% Annual SalaryBottom 10% Annual Salary
Boulder, CO470$37,330$17.95$47,990$30,620
Colorado Springs, CO810$35,770$17.2$47,920$29,470
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO3,700$36,940$17.76$46,130$30,680
Fort Collins, CO430$35,060$16.85$46,770$29,100
Grand Junction, CO130$33,880$16.29$48,860$28,830
Greeley, CO250$35,540$17.09$49,780$29,280
Pueblo, CO120$34,190$16.44$46,060$28,510
* 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.

You can also choose to only work part-time in a pet facility.

However, this means you will earn much less compared to full-time dog groomers.

Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Colorado

Maybe you need more information regarding this job and to keep up to date with the news.

In that case, you can check out the following organizations:

  • Colorado Dog Groomers Information
  • The Denver Dog Magazine
  • American Kennel Club (AKC)
  • National Dog Groomers Association of America
  • Gastineau Humane Society
  • International Professional Groomers, Inc.

You also have the option to develop your skills more by attending some specialized workshops.

In the end, the most important aspect is to get trained and obtain your dog grooming certification.

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