How to Become a Dog Groomer in Indiana

The most important step to becoming a dog groomer in Indiana is meeting the educational and training requirements. Luckily for interested candidates, this process is straightforward.

The state has plenty of incredible training programs, and employers are always willing to work with freshly graduated dog groomers.

Having a clear picture of what to expect along the journey makes things even simpler. This is why we have collated below a detailed guide containing all the useful considerations that all future dog growers in Indiana must know to start their careers and make the most out of it.

Steps to Become a Dog Groomer in Indiana

Future dog groomers in Indiana must follow the steps below to receive proper training and start their careers correctly.

Have a High School Diploma or GED

Becoming a dog groomer in Indiana without having a high school diploma or GED is POSSIBLE. However, it is also possible for certain training programs, particularly the best institutions, to only accept candidates who can provide these credentials successfully.

Enroll in a Training Program

Dog training programs teach valuable skills in cleaning, styling, dog breed identification, restraint, and skin disease identification. Some also issue a certificate upon graduation.

Ultimately, the weeks spent in a dog grooming training program should equip a future dog groomer with everything they need to know to start their careers.

Below, we list some top dog grooming schools for interested candidates in Indiana.

Working as a Dog Groomer Assistant

Working as an assistant to a dog groomer before securing employment plays two roles. First, it helps a fresh dog groomer easily transition into real-world duties.

It also allows them to acquire additional real-world experience that goes beyond the foundational knowledge they acquired during their training sessions.

Not all dog groomers in Indiana first work as a dog groomer’s assistant.

Certification

To give themselves the best chances of securing employment with the best salons and dog grooming establishments, dog groomers in Indiana are often advised to seek certification even though doing so is not compulsory.

Prospective employers love to hire certified dog groomers, and dog owners are often more willing to patronize businesses run by certified groomers.

Once all of the above steps are complete (including certification), candidates may secure employment at any dog grooming establishment or start their own business.

Licensing and Certification Requirements

To become certified as a professional dog groomer in Indiana, candidates look to the National Dog Groomers Association of America. The association offers a Certified Dog Groomer credential that is well respected among professionals in the country.

Those who wish to earn this credential must apply to the association and participate in workshops. They must also pass a written examination to demonstrate their skills.

Additionally, candidates in Indiana who desire an international alternative may look to another professional organization known as the International Professional Groomers, Inc. This association also offers respected credentials and networking opportunities.

Learn about dog groomer licensing and certification in neighboring states:

Salary and Job Outlook

The highest-paid dog groomers in Indiana take home an annual average salary of $87,696, while those who are among the lowest-paid will still manage an annual average salary close to $23,884

Those in the middle will earn an annual average salary of $45,766. These figures were obtained in a survey of dog groomers in the state carried out by Indeed.

As expected, the data shows that factors such as experience, location, credentials, and business type significantly influence how much a dog groomer will earn in Indiana.

Sorting by location, Fishers is Indiana’s highest-paying city for dog groomers, with an annual average salary of $79,82. This is followed by Saint John and Carmel, with annual average salaries of $58,868 and $49,579, respectively.

Dog groomers in Indianapolis earn an annual average salary of $48,020.

Top Dog Grooming Schools in Indiana

Aspiring dog groomers in Indianapolis below for the best training quality dog grooming schools

The Grooming School of Indiana

The Grooming School of Indiana has been accredited since 2009. Admitted candidates will have an opportunity to start their careers through 12 weeks of rigorous training.

No experience is necessary to secure admission, and the class sizes are purposefully kept small for an optimal student-to-teacher ratio.

Hydrant Pet Center

Hydrant Pet Center is a top-quality destination for residents of Northwest Indiana to receive professional grooming training. The program involves a lot of hands-on experience, ensuring candidates acquire all the knowledge they need before graduating.

There is no minimum grooming experience required for admission. Candidates may apply to groom their pets or pursue a professional career.

Explore neighboring states for dog grooming schools