How Much Can You Earn as a Dog Groomer in the UK? Start a Career or Boost Your Income with Advanced Training from Four Paws Groom School!

If you’re considering a career as a dog groomer in the UK, you’re likely wondering how much you can earn and what steps you can take to increase your income. The dog grooming industry is growing, and there are plenty of opportunities for skilled professionals to carve out a rewarding career. In this blog, we’ll explore the average earnings for dog groomers, how further training can increase your earning potential, and how enrolling in courses at Four Paws Groom School can help you become a sought-after expert in the field.

Average Earnings as a Dog Groomer in the UK

As with any profession, the amount you can earn as a dog groomer depends on various factors such as experience, location, and the type of grooming services you offer. On average, dog groomers in the UK can expect to earn:

• Grooming Apprentice or Trainee: If you are enrolled on a recognised apprenticeship programme, you can expect to earn an apprentice wage which is £7.55ph from April 2025.

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

• aged under 19
• aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both:

• are aged 19 or over
• have completed the first year of their apprenticeship

Four Paws Groom School offers iPET Network qualifications who are recognised across the industry for their quality.  iPET Network are also an end point assessment organisation and are approved to assess apprenticeships. More details at www.ipetnetwork.co.uk

• Entry-level Groomers (Grooming Assistants): If you’re just starting out, you can expect to earn around £21,000 to £24,000 annually depending on  hours worked when completing basic grooming and offering support to experienced stylists. This entry level role often focuses on coat preparation and customer service.

• Experienced Groomers: With a few years of experience, you could see your earnings rise to between £24,000 and £30,000 a year. Experienced groomers who have honed their skills and built a reputation may also earn more through tips and repeat business.

• Senior Groomers or Business Owners: If you become a senior dog groomer or decide to start your own dog grooming business, your earnings potential increases. Many experienced groomers running their own salons or mobile services can earn upwards of £40,000 annually, with some even surpassing £100,000 if their business thrives.

How Training and Qualifications as a Dog Groomer Can Boost Your Income

While the basics of dog grooming may be learned quickly, the more knowledge and skills you acquire, the more valuable you become as a groomer. This, in turn, directly impacts your earning potential. Let’s explore how getting more training and gaining additional qualifications can give your income a significant boost.

1. Specialisation in High-Demand Areas

• Breed-Specific Grooming: Certain dog breeds, like Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichon Frises, require specialised grooming techniques to achieve a clients perfect look. Being able to groom specific breeds in-demand can set you apart from other groomers.

• Creative Grooming: The trend for creative grooming, where groomers offer colourful dyes, intricate designs, or even grooming for pet shows, is on the rise. Offering these advanced services can allow you to charge a premium.

• Handling Difficult Dogs: If you can gain the skills to handle aggressive or anxious dogs, you open up your services to a broader client base.

• A Holistic Approach: Being a specialist in holistic therapies can also stand your grooming services apart and offer clients a unique experience.

2. Gain a recognised Qualification and Certification as a Dog Groomer

While there’s no legal requirement to be certified as a dog groomer in the UK, having formal qualifications can increase your credibility and appeal to clients. Reputable certifications, such as the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management or the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming, will give you an edge over non-certified competitors. Additionally, many clients feel more comfortable entrusting their pets to a groomer with formal qualifications.

3. Expand Your Services

Offering additional services like teeth cleaning, Reiki or even pet spa treatments can diversify your income. The more services you can provide, the more potential clients you’ll attract.

How Four Paws Groom School Can Help Boost Your Career and Earnings

Four Paws Groom School is one of the UK’s leading dog grooming schools based in Cheshire, Shropshire and Herefordshire, offering comprehensive training courses designed to help you excel in the dog grooming profession. Their curriculum covers everything from basic grooming techniques to advanced services, helping you to become a highly skilled and qualified professional.

Here’s how Four Paws Groom School can help boost your career and income:

1. Comprehensive Training Courses

Four Paws Groom School offers a range of regulated courses, including the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management, which is widely recognised across the UK. With expert instructors and hands-on experience, you’ll gain the skills necessary to handle various dog breeds, perform intricate grooming tasks, and provide high-quality pet care.

2. Expertise in Advanced Grooming Techniques

Four Paws Groom School also offers specialist courses in areas like Canine First Aid, Canine Care Health and Behaviour and Canine Oral Health. These skills can significantly increase your earning potential, as you’ll be able to offer unique services that clients are willing to pay more for.

3. Regulated Qualifications and Certifications

Graduating from Four Paws Groom School with an Ofqual regulated qualification and certification from an Awarding Organisation such as iPET Network provides an extra layer of trust and credibility, which is especially important if you decide to work independently or start your own business. Clients are more likely to choose a groomer who has received formal education and certification.

4. Networking and Job Placement

In addition to training, Four Paws Groom School offers excellent job placement services and networking opportunities. They have strong ties with industry professionals and grooming salons, which can help you land your first job or find clients if you’re starting your own grooming business.

5. Ongoing Support and Development

Four Paws Groom School believes in the continuous development of its students. As a graduate, you’ll have access to ongoing support, advice, and the latest grooming trends to ensure you stay at the top of your game and continue growing your business.

Conclusion: Boosting Your Earning Potential in Dog Grooming as a Dog Groomer

As a dog groomer in the UK, your earnings will depend on a range of factors, including your experience, location, and the services you offer. However, by investing in high-quality training and certification, you can significantly increase your earning potential. Courses from Four Paws Groom School provide the expertise and accreditation you need to become a skilled, confident, and highly sought-after professional in the dog grooming industry.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills, taking the step to improve your qualifications can make a big difference in how much you can earn. If you’re passionate about working with animals and want a rewarding career, dog grooming is an excellent option that offers both personal fulfillment and the potential for a great income.