How to Become a Dog Groomer in New Hampshire

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This article will inform you of the process of becoming a dog groomer in New Hampshire.

Read on to learn more about that and not only!

Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in New Hampshire

This occupation may sound easy but do you really know what you have to do?

Your main task is to complete these types of services:

  • 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

By completing the following actions, your services will be top-notch:

  • Cleaning and maintenance of the 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

At times, other types of animals might come for a grooming session, unless you work in particular establishments.

Dog Groomer Job Requirements in New Hampshire

You may wonder if there are any requirements to get hired for such a position.

In fact, there are a few preconditions you need to meet.

Many are common among most employers, while others might have some specific ones.

As a rule of thumb, you’ll interact with many different people from day one.

This requires very good communication skills on your part.

Loving animals should be understood and not even mentioned as a necessity.

Since some animals are heavier than others, make sure you can lift weights without much difficulty.

You’ll also see that some pets don’t like being handled by strangers, therefore you’ll have to know how to restrain and control them.

For this, you’ll need patience and empathy.

Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in New Hampshire

According to the laws in New Hampshire, you don’t need any certifications to become a pet stylist.

However, you’ll stand out a bit if you have a high school diploma or GED as well as a certification from an accredited course.

Dog Groomers’ Education

The National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) offers one of the best training programs for dog groomers.

These programs are offered through various institutions across the state.

Of course, you can attend any other training program if you don’t want a nationally recognized diploma.

The duration of most courses is two months and the fee for them is well under $1000.

Make sure there is a strong focus on the practice aspect when choosing the course.

You can even enroll in an online program.

These are the subjects you’ll study:

  • 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

Dog Groomers’ Certification

Once the program ends, you can take the recertification exam.

This test has 2 parts, just like the program had.

You may have to pay a registration and an exam fee, both separate.

Depending on who issues the diploma, you’ll have different renewal regulations to follow.

Those who want to run a pet grooming business need these licenses as well:

  • Business As (DBA) License
  • Dog Grooming Business Permit
  • Dog Groomer’s Selling Permit

The last permit is needed by those who also sell goods in addition to services.

Passing a jurisprudence exam might also be needed.

Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in New Hampshire

Once you obtained your credential, you can apply for a position with:

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

Dog groomers in New Hampshire earn on average $35,661 per year.

Annual Salary Range:
$29K
$36K
$45K

Average Salary of Dog Groomers in New Hampshire

City NameSalary
Manchester$36,801
Nashua$38,901
Concord$37,001
Derry$37,801
Rochester$36,601
Salem$38,301
Dover$36,701
Merrimack$38,901
Londonderry$38,901
Hudson$38,901
* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in New Hampshire

RegionEmployedAvg. Annual SalaryAvg. Hourly PayTop 10% Annual SalaryBottom 10% Annual Salary
Dover-Durham, NH-ME200$33,750$16.23$43,550$26,020
Manchester, NH230$32,200$15.48$42,510$26,900
Portsmouth, NH-ME230$33,590$16.15$45,810$26,070
* 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.

There are a series of factors that can influence the numbers from the table above:

  • Your experience
  • Your location
  • The number of credentials and diplomas you have
  • The type of employment you have

Additional Information for Dog Groomers in New Hampshire

The websites of these organizations are very useful if you need information on classes or help to get employed:

  • New Hampshire Human Society
  • New Hampshire Dog Grooming Associations
  • New Hampshire Dog Groomers
  • National Dog Groomers Association of America
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