How Much Do Pet Groomers Make? (Explained!)

Find out “How Much Do Pet Groomers Make”: If you have a passion for animals and a keen eye for detail, a career as a pet groomer is the right fit for you. Besides spending time with adorable furry friends, the financial aspect of being a pet groomer can also be quite appealing.

How Much Do Pet Groomers Make
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Is dog grooming a profession?

Yes, dog grooming can be considered a profession. The statement highlights the aspects of dog grooming that make it a suitable career choice for individuals who enjoy daily contact with dogs and building lasting relationships with both the dogs and their owners.

This suggests that dog grooming involves a level of skill, expertise, and dedication, making it a legitimate and professional career path for those interested in working with animals and their human companions.

Can you make money from dog grooming?

Yes, you can make money from dog grooming. Mobile dog grooming businesses have the potential to be highly profitable if they are well-managed and run efficiently. However, being well-equipped with high-quality grooming tools and supplies is essential to provide excellent services and attract more clients, ultimately increasing your earning potential.

Is pet grooming a good side hustle?

Yes, pet grooming is a good side hustle. If you have a passion for animals and want to spend your spare time with them, pet grooming offers the opportunity to do just that. Moreover, it allows you to learn valuable skills that could lead to a full-time career in the future.

What are the disadvantages of being a pet groomer?

The disadvantages of being a pet groomer include:

  • Physical Demands: Pet grooming is an active job that requires being in good shape. Groomers spend most of their day standing, pulling, and bending, which can be challenging for individuals with foot, leg, or back issues.
  • Long Hours on Feet: Groomers typically spend extended periods on their feet, which can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
  • Exposure to Animal Behavior: Dealing with different animals means groomers may encounter unpredictable behavior, which can be challenging and even risky.
  • Allergies and Sensitivities: Groomers may develop allergies or sensitivities to pet dander, hair, or grooming products over time.
  • Emotionally Demanding: Groomers may encounter distressed or nervous pets; handling them with care requires patience and empathy.
  • Physically Intense Tasks: Some grooming tasks, such as handling large or unruly dogs, may pose physical risks or require additional strength.
  • Repetitive Strain Injuries: The repetitive motions involved in grooming can lead to repetitive strain injuries over time.
  • Inconsistent Income: The income of pet groomers can vary, especially for those who work on commission or run their own businesses.

How big is the pet grooming industry?

According to IBISWorld, The pet grooming industry’s market size, measured by revenue, was $11.7 billion in 2022. The growth rate of the Pet Grooming & Boarding industry in the US in 2022 was 6.4%. This means that the industry experienced a positive growth of 6.4% in terms of revenue compared to the previous year. 

This growth rate indicates a healthy expansion in the pet grooming and boarding sector in the United States, reflecting the increasing demand for pet grooming and boarding services.

How Much Do Pet Groomers Make?

How Much Do Pet Groomers Make

However, the income you can expect to earn as a pet groomer varies depending on whether you work for someone else or run your own grooming business.

Working for Someone Else

The most common payment method for pet groomers working as employees is through commissions. This means that you will receive a percentage of the total grooming fees for each dog you groom.

For example, let’s say you work for a grooming salon and receive a 50% commission on all your grooms. If you groom an average of 6 dogs per day, and each groom costs $50, your daily pay might look like this:

6 dogs per day x $50 per groom x 50% commission = $150 per day

If you work five days a week with two weeks of vacation per year, your annual salary as an employee would be:

$150 per day x 5 days per week x 50 working weeks per year = $37,500 per year

It’s essential to note that the actual cost of each groom might vary, but this equation provides a rough estimate of your potential salary as a dog groomer working for someone else.

Being Self-Employed

On the other hand, if you decide to venture into the world of self-employment and run your own pet grooming business, your revenue will differ significantly. As a self-employed groomer, you receive 100% of the grooming fees for each dog you handle. Assuming you groom the same average of 6 dogs per day at $50 per groom, your daily earnings would look like this:

6 dogs per day x $50 per groom = $300 per day

For a self-employed pet groomer working five days a week with two weeks of vacation per year, the annual income would be:

$300 per day x 5 days per week x 50 working weeks per year = $75,000 per year

As a business owner, it’s important to remember that your earnings are not the same as your take-home pay. You will be responsible for covering all the expenses related to running your business, such as grooming tools, shampoo and conditioner, insurance, and either a brick-and-mortar salon or a mobile grooming van.

For mobile groomers, charging an extra fee of $25 for traveling to each client can offset some expenses, making it possible for the van to pay for itself over time. Additionally, even for brick-and-mortar salon owners, the earning potential as a business owner is usually higher than that of being an employee.

The Average Dog Groomer’s Pay

The average salary for dog groomers in the United States is approximately $35,000 per year before tips. However, this figure can vary significantly based on factors such as specialization (specific breeds or show dogs), clientele, and geographical location.

Those with their own grooming business or salon may earn even more, depending on the number of clients they serve and the quality of their services.

Where do groomers make the most money?

The highest-paying cities for pet groomers near the United States are:

  • Las Vegas, NV: Pet groomers in Las Vegas earn an average of $26.38 per hour.
  • Johns Creek, GA: Pet groomers in Johns Creek earn an average of $25.55 per hour.
  • Philadelphia, PA: Pet groomers in Philadelphia earn an average of $25.51 per hour.
  • Houston, TX: Pet groomers in Houston earn an average of $24.28 per hour.
  • Fort Worth, TX: Pet groomers in Fort Worth earn an average of $23.54 per hour.

These figures represent the average hourly wages in these cities and may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, demand for grooming services, and the specific employer.

How much do most dog groomers make?

How much do most dog groomers make

The average salary for dog groomers in the United States is around $35,000 per year before tips. However, this figure can vary based on several factors, such as:

  • Experience: Experienced groomers may command higher salaries due to their expertise and skill level.
  • Location: Groomers working in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may earn more than those in smaller towns or regions with a lower cost of living.
  • Type of Employer: Groomers working for established grooming salons or pet care businesses may have more stable income and benefits, while self-employed groomers have the potential to earn more but also bear additional expenses related to running their own business.
  • Specialization: Groomers who specialize in handling specific breeds, show dogs or offer specialized grooming services may be able to command higher rates for their expertise.
  • Clientele: Groomers with a large and loyal customer base may see higher earnings through repeat business and tips.
  • Demand: Areas with higher demand for grooming services may offer more opportunities and higher wages for groomers.

FAQ

How Long Does It Take to Groom, a Dog?

The time it takes to groom a dog can vary based on the breed, size, and coat type. Grooming may take about an hour for large, short-haired breeds like a Doberman Pinscher or Great Dane. However, for large dogs with thicker or longer coats, such as those with a double coat or long hair, it’s best to set aside at least 3 to 4 hours for grooming.

How Much Can You Earn as a Dog Groomer in the UK?

Dog grooming can be a profitable business. Employed dog groomers in the UK can earn between £13,000 to £23,000 per year. Those who are self-employed or run their own grooming business can earn much more, even up to £100,000 or more, with multiple salons.

How Much Do Dog Groomers Make in NYC?

The average salary for a dog groomer in New York is around $29,000 per year. However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as skills, experience, employer, tips, bonuses, and more. Dog groomer salaries in New York can range from $17,500 to $52,000.

What Is the Best Qualification for Dog Grooming?

No set roadmap or specific qualifications are required to become a dog groomer. However, a course in grooming, styling, or animal welfare can be beneficial and help you stand out in the profession. Training professionally can build trust with clients who rely on you to groom their furry family members.

Is Dog Grooming a Hobby?

Dog grooming is not a hobby but a profession. It involves hygienic care, cleaning, and enhancing dogs’ physical appearance for showing or competitions. A dog groomer, also known as a “groomer,” is a professional who earns a living by grooming dogs.

Is Dog Grooming Competitive?

Yes, there are different levels of competition in dog grooming. Whether you are a newly qualified or experienced professional, you can try your hand at competitive grooming.

What Sector Is Dog Grooming?

Dog grooming falls under the animal care sector. Dog groomers may work in various settings, from departments within large retail pet stores or garden centers to independent salons, daycare providers, rescue centers, and kennels.

How Many Dogs Are Groomed in a Day?

Efficient dog groomers can groom six to eight dogs daily, depending on the required services. Grooming sessions can take one to three hours or even longer.

Do Dogs Sleep After Grooming?

It’s normal for pets to feel a little tired after grooming. However, excessive sleepiness could indicate sedatives being used without your consent.

How Many Times Can I Groom My Dog?

The frequency of grooming your dog depends on its coat type and length. Daily brushing is recommended for long-haired dogs, while bathing should be done every four to six weeks. A haircut every 10-12 weeks is also necessary. Regular brushing can extend the time between professional grooming visits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a career as a pet groomer can be financially rewarding, whether you choose to work for someone else or run your own grooming business. By understanding the different payment structures and potential expenses involved, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and passion for working with animals. So, if you’re considering becoming a pet groomer, now is the perfect time to embark on this exciting and fulfilling journey!