Over the past decade, dog grooming has transformed from a niche service to a booming profession. More pet owners are willing to invest in professional care that goes beyond basic baths, demanding specialized cuts, stylish trims, and wellness-focused grooming.

As of 2025, the pet care industry shows no signs of slowing down, and dog grooming is a career option that’s capturing attention for its unique blend of creativity, hands-on work, and connection with animals.

But is it the right path for you? This article explores the salary potential, job demand, challenges, and long-term outlook for dog groomers in 2025, helping you make an informed choice before committing to this rewarding yet demanding career.

The Strong Demand Behind Dog Grooming Jobs in 2025

The pet care industry, including grooming, is part of a multi-billion-dollar market that continues to grow.

• The U.S. pet grooming and boarding industry is forecast to generate approximately $15.5 billion this year alone. This surge is fueled by rising pet ownership and owners' increased willingness to spend on premium services.
  
  
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the animal care and service industry is expected to grow by 16% through 2028, much faster than the average growth rate across all occupations. This will create an estimated 51,700 new jobs for animal caretakers, including groomers.
  
  
• Grooming services are no longer confined to salons. Mobile groomers, luxury pet spas, and specialty breed grooming are expanding markets. This variety means more opportunities for new entrants to find a niche.

In many urban and suburban areas, groomers are booked weeks or months in advance due to shortages, indicating high demand and an opportunity for those entering the profession to build clientele quickly.

Salary Insights: How Much Can Dog Groomers Expect to Earn?

Understanding potential income is crucial when considering any career. Dog grooming salaries vary widely depending on experience, location, employment type, and specialization.

National Average Salaries

• The median salary for dog groomers in the United States hovers around $38,000 annually, or roughly $18 per hour.
  
  
• Entry-level groomers often start closer to $30,000, while those with experience and a solid client base can earn between $50,000 and $75,000 or more.

Regional Salary Differences

Earnings differ by region due to cost of living, demand, and competition.

• Washington State offers some of the highest average salaries, about $43,300/year.
  
  
• California averages around $40,300/year, and Florida closer to $35,000/year.
  
  
• Certain cities, including Boulder, Denver, and Boston, report salaries exceeding $60,000, reflecting local demand and clientele's willingness to pay premium prices.

Experience and Income Growth

• Entry-level (<1 year): $30,000–$40,000
  
  
• Mid-career (2–5 years): $40,000–$55,000
  
  
• Experienced (5+ years): $55,000–$75,000+
  
  
• Salon owners or mobile grooming specialists can exceed $80,000 annually once established.

While salaried positions provide stability, many groomers work on commission or are self-employed, where income depends heavily on client volume and pricing.

The Physical and Emotional Challenges of Grooming

Dog grooming is a physically demanding profession that requires stamina, dexterity, and mental resilience. Understanding the challenges up front helps you prepare for a sustainable career.

Physical Demands

• Groomers spend hours standing, bending, and handling dogs of various sizes. Lifting large dogs or managing uncooperative pets can strain muscles and joints.
  
  
• Repetitive hand motions like clipping, scissoring, and blow-drying can cause repetitive strain injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome without proper ergonomics and care.
  
  
• Groomers often work in humid, wet environments that can be taxing over time.

Emotional and Psychological Toll

• Grooming anxious or aggressive dogs requires patience, calm handling, and sometimes dealing with bite risks.
  
  
• Time pressure in busy salons can lead to stress, especially when trying to meet appointment quotas.
  
  
• Some groomers report burnout after years in the field, with turnover common after 5 to 10 years.

Job Outlook: Stability and Future-Proofing Your Career

One of the biggest concerns for anyone entering a new field is whether the job will remain relevant. Dog grooming scores well here:

• Automation risk is very low. Grooming requires human judgment, creativity, and gentle handling that machines can’t replicate.
  
  
• Pet ownership trends continue upward, with Millennials and Gen Z leading increased spending on pet wellness and pampering.
  
  
• New niches are emerging, such as mobile grooming, cat grooming, and luxury services, expanding career options.

This outlook makes grooming a stable, long-term career choice for those willing to invest in skills and professional development.

Pros of a Career in Dog Grooming

• High demand nationwide, leading to job security.
  
  
• Relatively low barrier to entry: formal training can be completed within months.
  
  
• Creative and rewarding work: grooming blends artistry with animal care.
  
  
• Flexible working options: salons, mobile units, self-employment.
  
  
• Direct impact on animal well-being and owner satisfaction.

Cons and Challenges to Consider

• Physically demanding work that can shorten career longevity without care.
  
  
• Income variability, especially early on or in commission-based roles.
  
  
• Emotional stress managing difficult pets or client expectations.
  
  
• Potential for seasonal slowdowns in some locations.

How to Launch Your Dog Grooming Career in 2025

Training is the foundation of a successful grooming career. Courses typically cover:

• Anatomy and coat types
  
  
• Grooming tools and techniques
  
  
• Animal handling and safety
  
  
• Client communication
  
  
• Business skills for self-employed groomers

Completing a reputable program, like those offered by Groomers University, equips you to enter the job market confidently. After training, apprenticeships and entry-level roles help refine your skills while building clientele.

Is Dog Grooming a Good Career Choice in 2025?

If you love animals, enjoy creative and hands-on work, and are prepared for the physical and emotional demands, dog grooming offers a rewarding and financially viable career in 2025. Demand is strong and growing, salaries are competitive, especially for skilled and entrepreneurial groomers, and the profession is resistant to automation.

To get started on the right foot, professional training is essential. Groomers University provides affordable, hands-on courses that teach the skills you need to succeed and stand out in this growing industry. Visit us today to explore programs that can turn your passion for pets into a fulfilling career.