How to Become a Dog Groomer in Oklahoma

As more pet owners in Oklahoma look to keep their dogs in optimal physical conditions and pamper them, the demand for dog groomers in the state continues to grow. Rising to fulfill this demand is a team of trained enthusiasts with a comprehensive knowledge of various grooming skills for several dog breeds.

If you are an individual looking to pursue a dog grooming career in Oklahoma, you’ll first have to get acclimatized with the requirements for launching such a career in the state. Thankfully, that is exactly what the article below is all about.

When you’re done reading, you should have everything you need to be well-prepared for the wonderful journey ahead.

Steps to Become a Dog Groomer in Oklahoma

Aspiring dog groomers in Oklahoma would do well to follow the steps below to launch their careers the right way.

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements

Employers and training programs typically set the basic requirements for becoming a dog groomer. In this regard, some destinations may ask that candidates possess a high school diploma or GED.

Additionally, it is always important that, as an aspiring dog groomer, you possess a love and passion for animals and patience in dealing with them.

Step 2: Pursue Relevant Education

Naturally, everything you’ll need to learn to succeed as a dog groomer in Oklahoma will be taught at a training program. For this reason, it is highly imperative to make the right decision in this regard.

Thankfully, the state has no shortage of worthwhile options to consider. We will be listing some notable options in an upcoming section below.

Most training programs for dog groomers can be completed in a matter of weeks, but for the sake of comprehensiveness, some programs may take longer.

Additionally, while completing a dog grooming course online is possible, getting some hands-on training sessions is advisable.

Step 3: Acquire Real-World Experience

Training from a dog grooming salon running a training program is advisable to ensure that candidates can get some hands-on training. Of course, salons are not the only training destinations offering hands-on opportunities. Regardless, even after officially graduating from a training program, future dog groomers in Oklahoma would do well to spend some time working in a real-world setting as an assistant to get a feel for how the job is in the real world.

Step 4: Become Certified

Lastly, dog groomers in Oklahoma should pursue certification to enhance their job placement opportunities and career growth possibilities. We discuss this topic further below.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

As mentioned above, dog groomers in Oklahoma are not expected to receive a license or professional certification. Those who choose to do so of their own accord may consider the credentials offered by the National Dog Groomers Association of America.

They are the premier organization accrediting dog groomers across the country. The organization offers the Certified Dog Groomer credential that may go a long way in helping candidates stand out.

Those looking for additional alternatives may consider International Professional Groomers, Inc.

Top Dog Grooming Schools in Oklahoma

The following are some of Oklahoma’s most prominent training programs for aspiring dog groomers.

Unleashed Grooming School

Unleashed Grooming School in Oklahoma City offers a strong training program for future dog groomers nationwide. It boasts experienced instructors and hands-on training.

American School of Dog Grooming

American School of Dog Grooming has a location in Oklahoma City where candidates learn in a wonderful environment and take advantage of job placement opportunities.

Academy of Dog Grooming Arts

Lastly, candidates may also consider the Academy of Dog Grooming Arts training program. The program also includes an opportunity to learn on the job.

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Salary & Career Outlook

As a fresh dog groomer in Oklahoma, you can look forward to a starting salary of around $34,146. This is the figure given as the annual average salary for dog groomers in the state, and it is also in line with the national average for other states combined.

On the higher end of the dog grooming salary spectrum in Oklahoma are the top 10% earners making around $67,844 annually. Those among the bottom 10% tend to take home an annual average salary of $17,186.

Like most occupations, salary and experience will go a long way in determining just how much a dog groomer in Oklahoma takes home at the end of the year. Concerning location, some notable cities to work as a dog groomer in the state include Tulsa, with an annual average salary of $46,227; Edmond, with an annual average salary of $40,758, and Norman, with an annual average salary of $37,615.

Dog groomers in Oklahoma City take home an annual average salary of $33,105.