How to Become a Dog Groomer in Michigan

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You can easily start a new career as a dog groomer if you love animals and working with them.

Michigan is a good place to start your training, but first, you should be aware of the requirements.

Check out the article below for more info!

Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Michigan

The main task a dog groomer should have is to ensure animals look their best.

There are many job duties you will need to complete on a day-to-day basis.

These include:

  • 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

Your duties will also 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 Michigan

Keep in mind that the most important aspect is being a dog lover.

You should also enjoy working with cats and learn more about their behavior, as you may need to groom cats too.

There are also a variety of skills you will need to have.

One of the requirements is having solid communication skills that allow you to talk to the dog owner.

You should also be able to keep the animal relaxed and in a good mood while grooming it.

Dog groomers also need patience and empathy, as not all animals are easy to deal with.

Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Michigan

Just like in many other areas, you will not need any special certification to become a dog groomer in Michigan.

However, future employers will find you a lot more reliable if you do have a dog grooming license.

So, how can you get one?

Dog Groomers’ Education in Michigan

There are many schools across Michigan where you can develop the needed skills.

The first thing you need to do is join a training program for dog groomers.

The program you choose should be accredited.

The programs for a dog groomer usually cover these 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

During your training program, you will get to attend theory classes but also hands-on practice.

The practice hours will help you with developing the real-life skills you need to have for a successful career.

Dog Groomers’ Certification

In order to get a dog grooming certification, you will need to take an exam first.

This is the only exam you need to pass if you want to work for an employer.

But, you may want to run your own dog grooming business.

In that case, you will need a commercial license, for which the requirements are different.

You should also read the laws at the federal and state level concerning this topic is the best.

Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Michigan

There are many places where you can find a job as a newly certified dog groomer.

These facilities include:

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

As a dog groomer, you will have a higher salary if you choose to work for yourself.

Your job opportunities will also be better if you work for a big company or are located in a big city.

This is also the case if you have some years of experience in the field and a lot of credentials.

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

Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Michigan

City NameSalary
Detroit$36,501
Grand Rapids$34,801
Warren$36,501
Flint$33,401
Sterling Heights$36,401
Lansing$34,701
Ann Arbor$37,001
Livonia$36,401
Dearborn$36,501
Westland$36,601
* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in Michigan

RegionEmployedAvg. Annual SalaryAvg. Hourly PayTop 10% Annual SalaryBottom 10% Annual Salary
Ann Arbor, MI340$31,340$15.07$41,430$24,750
Battle Creek, MI80$30,150$14.5$41,470$21,730
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI2,940$35,660$17.14$45,100$27,620
Flint, MI220$29,910$14.38$36,930$23,130
Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI780$31,940$15.36$40,380$24,080
Jackson, MI70$30,480$14.66$36,360$23,900
Kalamazoo-Portage, MI250$31,010$14.91$38,380$24,240
Lansing-East Lansing, MI440$31,270$15.04$45,850$23,740
Midland, MI60$30,540$14.68$37,110$25,600
Monroe, MI70$31,430$15.11$39,210$23,760
Muskegon, MI170$32,120$15.44$39,380$24,980
Niles-Benton Harbor, MI130$30,270$14.56$36,870$25,780
Saginaw, MI110$29,570$14.22$34,460$23,100
* 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 may want to get a job as a dog groomer to supplement your income.

Just keep in mind that a part-time job will pay less compared to a full-time one.

Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Michigan

If you need extra info or news related to the dog grooming field, check out the following associations:

  • Michigan Dog Trainer Website
  • Michigan Humane Society
  • National Dog Groomer Association of America
  • Humane Society in West Michigan
  • Human Society of South Michigan
  • Cherryland Humane Society

These are also good places to find employment.

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