How to Become a Dog Groomer in Nevada

Dog grooming is an art. And like all art, it requires a great deal of training and repetition to master – even for those who feel like they have an innate talent and disposition towards it.

For residents of Nevada who would like to consider a career in dog grooming, honing their skills by enrolling in a training program is paramount. Candidates must also follow a few other steps to ensure compliance and high-level expertise.

We take a look at all of these considerations below.

We examine the steps involved in the process before moving on to the licensing and certification requirements and, finally, this salary projection. For those who would like to acquire a high-quality education, we have also provided a list of some of the best schools and salons to consider.

Steps to Become a Dog Groomer in Nevada

Below are the most important steps involved in becoming a dog groomer in the state of Nevada.

Step 1: Complete Quality Training

Grooming schools are designed to provide comprehensive training for prospective dog groomers in all aspects of the field. Such programs can be completed in a few weeks to a few months.

Numerous institutions also provide an opportunity for candidates to complete their training online.

While it is possible to start training without basic educational credentials, it is common for some training institutions to ask for candidates’ high school diplomas or GEDs.

Step 2: Obtain Real-World Experience

All grooming schools help students begin their journeys by laying a strong theoretical foundation as to what the field is all about. Ultimately, however, to become successful, candidates will have to practice what they have been taught in the real world, ideally before they secure employment.

The best dog grooming institutions usually have provisions to allow students to receive such training towards the end of their programs. Additionally, many functional dog grooming salons are training destinations, giving students access to real-world applications right from the start.

Even after graduation, future dog groomers in Nevada may choose to work as assistants to established dog groomers for more real-world experience before taking on an independent position in a salon.

Step 3: Become Certified

Numerous organizations are responsible for certifying dog groomers in Nevada and nationwide. These credentials are there not because they are mandatory or required by the state but because they give fresh dog groomers (and even established ones) an edge.

It verifies that dog groomers have completed training and acquired the necessary expertise to perform their duties to a specific level.

For these reasons, employers – and even customers – are always on the lookout to work with certified dog groomers.

In the section below, we analyze some of the ways candidates in Nevada can acquire these credentials.

State Licensing and Certification Requirements

Nevada has no mandatory state licensing requirements or guidelines for dog groomers. However, candidates may want to consider becoming certified for personal gain and career advancement.

The prominent organization responsible for certifying dog groomers in Nevada and the whole of America is the National Dog Groomers Association of America. The organization offers a Certified Dog Groomer credential requiring a written exam and demonstrating practical skills.

Candidates looking for a different alternative to the credentials of the National Dog Groomers Association of America may consider the professional credentials offered by International Professional Groomers, Inc.

Learn about dog groomer licensing and certification in neighboring states:

Salary and Job Outlook

The state of Nevada is one of the highest-paying states for dog groomers in the country. Here, an average dog groomer makes a salary of around $52,182 every year. Of course, it is possible to scale even further.

The highest-paid dog groomers in Nevada tend to earn as high as $83,781 annually. Conversely, the lowest-paid manager has an annual average salary of $32,501.

As one would expect, the factors influencing how much a dog groomer will make in Nevada include experience, location, credentials, and business model.

Nevada’s highest-paying cities for dog groomers are Las Vegas, with an annual average salary of $56,065, and Reno, with an annual average salary of $55,643.

Top Dog Grooming Schools in Nevada

The following are the top dog grooming schools for interested individuals in Nevada to consider.

Animal Behavior College

Animal Behavior College is a well-respected institution offering online training in many veterinary fields. The school offers a comprehensive dog grooming training program for aspiring dog groomers in Nevada.

The first 9 stages of the program are spent receiving training online. From there, candidates may embark on local externships to receive real-world experience.

Distinctive Dogs Academy

Distinctive Dog Academy on West Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, is another wonderful destination for quality training as a prospective dog groomer in Nevada. This institution offers theoretical and practical training and the opportunity to receive real-world experience.

Explore neighboring states for dog grooming schools