Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer Careers in Florida
Dog groomers bathe, clip, trim, and style dogs and other pets in grooming salons, mobile vans, and veterinary clinics. Florida's year-round outdoor lifestyle means pets need consistent grooming, and the state's enormous pet ownership rate — combined with a strong culture of pet pampering in affluent coastal communities — makes pet grooming a recession-resistant small business opportunity.
What does a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer do in Florida?
Dog groomers bathe, clip, trim, and style dogs and other pets in grooming salons, mobile vans, and veterinary clinics. Florida's year-round outdoor lifestyle means pets need consistent grooming, and the state's enormous pet ownership rate — combined with a strong culture of pet pampering in affluent coastal communities — makes pet grooming a recession-resistant small business opportunity.
Typical Florida work setting: Pet salon, mobile van, veterinary clinic, pet boarding facility.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer is approximately $36,400 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $25,000, with experienced workers earning around $52,000.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 19% through the next decade — well above average compared to many other states.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the No mandatory state license; National Dog Groomers Association (NDGAA) certification or International Professional Groomers (IPG) preferred required to work as a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer. Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer programs take about 6-12 weeks vocational; 3-6 months apprenticeship. Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Apply for Florida jobsFlorida employers across the state hire entry-level Dog Groomer / Pet Groomers year-round. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support and Florida employer relationships.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: No mandatory state license; National Dog Groomers Association (NDGAA) certification or International Professional Groomers (IPG) preferred
- Typical program length: 6-12 weeks vocational; 3-6 months apprenticeship
- Typical tuition range: $3,000 - $7,000
Career Path
- Bather/Brusher → Groomer → Senior Groomer → Mobile Owner / Grooming Salon Owner
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Pet Grooming Certificate
- NDGAA Certification Prep
- Animal Care Technology Certificate
Florida Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer?
Most Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer roles in Florida do not require a state license to start, though employers often prefer candidates who have completed an accredited training program and earned a recognized credential.
How long does it take to become a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer take about 6-12 weeks vocational; 3-6 months apprenticeship. Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $3,000 - $7,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Dog Groomer / Pet Groomers is about $36,400 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Dog Groomer / Pet Groomer. Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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