How to Become a Dog Groomer in Oregon

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Do you have a talent for working with animals?

If so, you can easily become a dog groomer once you are aware of the steps you need to take.

So, read on for more info.

Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Oregon

In addition to enjoying being around animals all day, there are several tasks you will have to complete daily.

These include the following:

  • Cutting, clipping, and styling a dog’s coat
  • Bathing dogs
  • Clipping a dog’s nails
  • Interacting with dog owners
  • Knowing the hygienic care for each dog breed
  • Teeth brushing
  • Knowing how to restrain animals
  • Calming the dogs
  • Identify problem areas

Your duties will also include:

  • Cleaning and maintenance of the workplace
  • Cleaning and maintaining your tools
  • Knowing which tools to use for what task
  • Safely operating the tools
  • Staying updated with styling trends
  • Staying informed on the industry changes

Dog Groomer Job Requirements in Oregon

Most dog grooming facilities also receive other animals such as cats or exotic pets.

So, you need to know how to groom these animals as well and how to distinguish their behavior.

A successful dog groomer should also have strong communication skills.

You should have good abilities to talk to the owner of the animal and talk to them about the grooming process.

Some other skills you should have are patience and empathy.

Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Oregon

In Oregon, there aren’t any laws that require a dog groomer to get certified.

What is the most important is your experience with animals.

However, many employing companies require certification.

For that, you will need to follow some steps.

Dog Groomers’ Education in Oregon

To get certified, you first need to join a training program in an accredited school.

You can easily find a suitable program for dog groomers in Oregon.

After you finish your training program, you will have to pass an exam.

Once you take and pass the test, you will get your new dog certification in a couple of weeks.

In class, you will take some of the following subjects:

  • Introduction to Pet Grooming
  • Introduction to Dogs and Cats
  • Pre-Grooming Procedures
  • Dog Grooming, Part 1
  • Dog Grooming, Part 2
  • Dog Grooming, Part 3
  • Dog Personalities and Behavior
  • Cat Grooming
  • Business Practices

Your training program will feature a mix of theory and practice, with more focus being on the practice aspect.

Dog Groomers’ Certification in Oregon

If you plan on getting hired in a dog grooming facility, you won’t have to get any other license for it.

But, some dog groomers prefer to start running their own business.

In that case, the requirements change.

To start your own company, you are required to learn the laws at the federal and state level.

Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Oregon

The next step after getting your certification is to start looking for a job.

You can find employment in any of the following dog grooming facilities:

  • Dog rescues
  • Veterinary clinics
  • Pet grooming salons
  • Pet shops
  • Dog daycare centers

You might also be wondering what are the average salaries for a dog groomer in Oregon.

You should know that you will earn more if you run your dog grooming business.

The average salary for a beginner in Oregon ranges between $20,000 to $30,000.

However, you will be able to earn up to $50,000 once you have some years of experience.

If you reside in a larger area or work for a big company, your chances to have a good salary also increase.

Annual Salary Range:
$29K
$35K
$44K

Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Oregon

City NameSalary
Portland$37,201
Eugene$35,001
Salem$35,301
Gresham$37,201
Beaverton$37,201
Hillsboro$37,101
Medford$34,201
Springfield$34,901
Bend$34,601
Corvallis$34,801
* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in Oregon

RegionEmployedAvg. Annual SalaryAvg. Hourly PayTop 10% Annual SalaryBottom 10% Annual Salary
Albany, OR70$36,970$17.77$49,050$30,030
Bend-Redmond, OR220$36,820$17.7$47,800$30,280
Corvallis, OR90$33,560$16.14$36,810$29,720
Eugene, OR280$34,360$16.52$39,060$29,380
Grants Pass, OR60$34,210$16.45$42,450$29,780
Medford, OR170$34,900$16.78$43,480$29,230
Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA2,160$40,290$19.37$56,140$31,750
Salem, OR220$36,420$17.51$45,920$30,400
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Animal Caretakers, OCC Code 39-2021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Oregon

Perhaps you want to know where you can get more information regarding the industry.

In that case, you can check out the following resources:

  • National Dog Groomers Association of America
  • Oregon Humane Society
  • So-Humane
  • Humane Society of Central Oregon
  • Pet Groomer Oregon

All you have to do now is to find a suitable school and choose the best program for your needs.

After completing you, you can easily start your new career in a field you love.

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