How to Become a Dog Groomer in Nebraska

Search Animal-Related Education Programs
Choose a career path
Sponsored
Nebraska map

Maybe you want to start working in a new field in Nebraska.

If you are an animal and especially a dog lover, working as a dog groomer sounds like a great idea.

But, what do you need to do to start a career in this industry?

Read below to find out more.

Featured Online Programs
Sponsored Online Programs.

Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Nebraska

As a dog groomer, you will be working in a pet facility and offer grooming services to dogs and other animals.

You will have many daily job duties, such as:

  • 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 Nebraska

First of all, you need to be a dog lover in order to be able to have this job.

You should also learn a few things about cats, because some cats may need grooming services as well.

In addition to that, you will need to learn some skills.

A dog groomer needs to have good communication skills to talk to the owner of the animal.

You should also be able to keep the animal and the owner calm and relaxed.

As you will be working with many different animals, you should know how to be patient and empathetic.

Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Nebraska

In Nebraska, you do not need to get any certification in order to work as a dog groomer.

However, most dog grooming facilities will only hire you if you have a certification or work experience.

In order to get the certification, there are a few steps you have to take.

Dog Groomers’ Education

To get certified, you first need to select a school and dog grooming training program.

There are many schools in this state that provide dog grooming programs.

Remember that the program you select should be accredited.

The training programs for a dog groomer will feature the next 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

In school, you will attend hours of hands-on practice mixed with hours of theory.

The focus will be on practice as this will get you used to work in a dog grooming facility.

Dog Groomers’ Certification

Before you can get certified, you have to schedule an exam and pass it.

The certification you will get is the only one you need if you plan on getting hired in a facility.

There are different requirements for dog groomers who want to start their own company.

For that, you have to learn the laws at the federal and state level.

Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Nebraska

After you pass the required certification exam, your license will be issued shortly.

So, you will be able to start applying to jobs and have a look at salaries.

You can look for work in any of the next facilities:

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

The salary you will earn depends on how much experience you have with animals, but also where you live.

For instance, dog groomers who live in a big city earn a higher annual salary compared to those in rural areas.

Dog groomers who own their own company have a higher income as well.

Annual Salary Range:
$26K
$32K
$41K

Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Nebraska

City NameSalary
Omaha$33,901
Lincoln$33,701
Bellevue$33,901
Grand Island$33,301
Kearney$33,301
Fremont$33,401
Hastings$33,301
North Platte$32,301
Norfolk$30,201
Columbus$33,301
* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in Nebraska

RegionEmployedAvg. Annual SalaryAvg. Hourly PayTop 10% Annual SalaryBottom 10% Annual Salary
Grand Island, NE70$28,500$13.7$37,780$21,100
Lincoln, NE380$30,090$14.46$39,560$22,470
Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA1,170$32,100$15.43$48,790$22,250
* Salary information based on the May 2022 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Animal Caretakers, OCC Code 39-2021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

In Nebraska, you can also work as a part-time dog groomer.

But, you will earn less than you would if you were fully employed.

Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Nebraska

You will need to keep updated with the industry changes.

So, check out these below places that could help you out:

  • Nebraska Humane Society
  • Isle of Dogs
  • National Dog Groomers Association of America

As long as you complete your training and get certified, you will be able to work in any facility you want.

Search Programs