Top 11 Pet Groomer Certifications

Certifications are important for pet groomers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill that employers look for when hiring. By obtaining certifications, pet groomers can show potential employers that they possess the necessary skills to provide quality grooming services. Certifications also give pet groomers an edge over non-certified applicants and may help them stand out from other job seekers. Additionally, certifications can help pet groomers stay up to date on current trends and techniques, allowing them to offer more advanced services that customers may be looking for.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Pet Groomers and explain how they can help to advance their careers.

What are Pet Groomer Certifications?

Pet groomer certification is a professional credential that indicates a groomer has achieved a certain level of knowledge and skill in the art of pet grooming. This certification is typically earned by completing an approved course of study, passing an exam, and demonstrating practical skills.

In many cases, having a pet groomer certification can help one to be more competitive when applying for jobs. It can also make it easier for pet owners to find qualified professionals who can provide quality services. Pet owners may feel more comfortable leaving their beloved pets in the care of someone with a certified background because they know that person has been properly trained.

Having this type of certification may also help groomers gain access to exclusive organizations, training programs, and other resources specifically designed for pet groomers. Additionally, some certifications even include benefits such as discounts on products or services related to pet grooming.

Finally, having a pet groomer certification is beneficial for the profession as a whole because it helps ensure that groomers are providing safe and quality services to their clients’ pets. This helps maintain high standards within the industry, which benefits both pet owners and professional groomers alike.

Pro Tip: When looking for a pet groomer certification, make sure to look for one that is accredited by the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA). This will ensure that the certification you receive is of the highest possible quality and will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful as a pet groomer.

Related: What does a Pet Groomer do?

Top 11 Pet Groomer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Pet Groomers today.

1. National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) Certification

The National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) Certification is the most widely recognized professional certification for dog groomers in the United States. It is a voluntary program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of dog grooming. The certification requires extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of grooming, including breed-specific styling, bathing and drying, health and safety protocols, and customer service.

It typically takes between six months to two years to complete the NDGAA Certification program. During this time, applicants must complete a comprehensive course of study that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, breed-specific styling techniques, bathing and drying procedures, health and safety protocols, customer service skills, business management practices, and more. Applicants must also demonstrate their proficiency through written exams and practical assessments.

To get certified by the NDGAA, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements which include having at least one year of experience as a professional dog groomer or completing an approved training program. They must also submit an application along with proof of education or experience in the field. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to pay a fee for their study materials and assessments.

The cost for the NDGAA Certification program varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or through an accredited school or organization. Generally speaking, it can range from $250-$500 USD for individuals; however there may be additional fees associated with taking exams or attending classes/workshops if applicable.

2. Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) Certification

The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) is a non-profit organization that works to promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. It provides certification programs for pet industry professionals, including pet store owners, breeders, groomers, trainers, and veterinarians. The PIJAC Certification Program is designed to ensure that all certified professionals have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care for their pets.

The PIJAC Certification Program includes a series of online courses and exams that must be completed in order to receive certification. These courses cover topics such as animal health and nutrition, animal behavior, customer service, business management, and more. After completing the courses and passing the exams, applicants will receive an official PIJAC Certificate of Achievement.

The cost of the PIJAC Certification Program varies depending on which courses are taken and how many exams are taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $250-$500 USD per course or exam. It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the program depending on how quickly you can complete each course or exam.

To get started with the PIJAC Certification Program you will need to register online at their website. You will then be able to select which courses or exams you would like to take and pay for them using a credit card or PayPal account. Once your payment has been processed you will be able to access your course materials and begin studying right away!

3. International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG) Certification

International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG) Certification is a certification program for professional pet groomers that demonstrates their knowledge and skills in the field of pet grooming. It is designed to help groomers demonstrate their commitment to excellence and to provide them with recognition for their achievements.

In order to receive IPG Certification, an individual must complete a comprehensive course of study that covers topics such as safety, sanitation, animal behavior, anatomy and physiology, health and nutrition, breed identification, styling techniques and more. The course also includes a practical exam that tests the candidate’s ability to properly groom animals.

The IPG Certification process typically takes six months or longer depending on the individual’s availability and dedication to studying. During this time, individuals must complete all required courses and pass both the written and practical exams before they can receive their certification.

To get started on the path towards IPG Certification, individuals must first sign up for an approved course provider or instructor-led program. Approved providers offer online courses as well as in-person classes at various locations around the world. Once enrolled in a program, individuals will be given access to all materials needed to prepare for the certification exams.

The cost of IPG Certification varies depending on which program an individual chooses; however, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD for enrollment fees plus any additional costs associated with taking the exams.

4. National Cat Groomers Institute of America (NCGIA) Certification

The National Cat Groomers Institute of America (NCGIA) Certification is a professional certification program for cat groomers. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe, humane, and effective grooming services to cats. This certification is available to anyone who has completed an approved training program or has documented experience in the field of cat grooming.

To obtain the NCGIA Certification, individuals must complete a minimum of 16 hours of instruction in feline health and safety, anatomy, coat types and textures, grooming tools and techniques, handling techniques, business practices, client communication skills, and more. The coursework can be completed online or through an approved instructor-led program. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification.

The cost for taking the NCGIA Certification course varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Once certified, there are no additional fees required for renewal or maintenance of the certification.

5. Animal Behavior College (ABC) Grooming Certificate Program

Animal Behavior College (ABC) Grooming Certificate Program is a comprehensive, hands-on program designed to teach students the fundamentals of animal grooming. The program consists of 180 hours of instruction and includes both theoretical and practical components. Students learn about the anatomy and physiology of animals, as well as proper techniques for grooming them safely and effectively.

The program takes approximately six months to complete and can be done either online or in-person at an ABC campus. Online courses are self-paced, allowing students to work at their own speed. In-person courses require attendance at scheduled classes with instructors available for guidance.

To get the certificate, students must complete all 180 hours of instruction and pass a final exam. Upon completion, graduates receive a certificate from Animal Behavior College that certifies their knowledge in animal grooming.

The cost of the program varies depending on whether it is taken online or in person. Online programs typically cost around $1,000 while in-person programs range from $2,500-$3,000.

6. National Certified Master Groomer Program (NCMG)

The National Certified Master Groomer (NCMG) Program is a certification program for professional pet groomers. It is offered by the International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG). The NCMG program is designed to recognize and reward excellence in the grooming profession.

To become an NCMG, you must first complete the IPG's Grooming Fundamentals course. This course covers topics such as safety, health and hygiene, breed-specific grooming techniques, and customer service. After completing the Grooming Fundamentals course, you will be eligible to take the NCMG exam.

The NCMG exam consists of two parts: a written test and a practical demonstration of your skills. The written portion of the exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and grooming techniques. The practical portion requires you to demonstrate your ability to properly groom a dog or cat according to breed standards.

The entire process takes approximately three months to complete from start to finish. It costs $400 for non-members and $300 for members of IPG to take the NCMG exam.

7. International School of Pet Grooming (ISPG) Certification

The International School of Pet Grooming (ISPG) Certification is a professional certification program for pet groomers. It is designed to provide pet groomers with the knowledge, skills and confidence to safely and effectively groom pets. The program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam.

The written exam covers topics such as breed-specific grooming techniques, health and safety, sanitation, client communication and business practices. This portion of the exam can be taken online or in person at an ISPG-approved testing center. It typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete the written portion of the exam.

The practical exam requires that you demonstrate your ability to properly groom a variety of breeds using correct techniques. This portion of the exam must be completed in person at an ISPG-approved testing center. It typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete the practical portion of the exam.

In order to become certified by ISPG, you must pass both portions of the exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official certification from ISPG which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

The cost for taking the exams varies depending on where you take them, but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD for both portions combined.

8. American Kennel Club Scent Work Certification

The American Kennel Club (AKC) Scent Work Certification is a program designed to certify the ability of dogs to use their noses to detect scents. This certification is open to all breeds of dogs and can be used for a variety of activities such as search and rescue, tracking, law enforcement, and more.

To get certified, dogs must pass a series of tests that evaluate their scenting abilities. The tests include searching for specific odors in various environments and conditions, following a scent trail, and identifying hidden objects by smell. Dogs must also demonstrate good manners while working with an evaluator.

The AKC Scent Work Certification process typically takes several months to complete. Depending on the dog’s age and experience level, it may take longer or shorter amounts of time.

In order to get the AKC Scent Work Certification, owners must first register their dog with the AKC. Once registered, owners will need to find an approved evaluator who is qualified to administer the tests required for certification. Evaluators are available throughout the United States and some international locations as well.

The cost of getting an AKC Scent Work Certification varies depending on the evaluator chosen but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD per session.

9. PetTech Pet First Aid & CPR Certification

PetTech Pet First Aid & CPR Certification is a comprehensive program designed to provide pet owners and pet care professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize, respond to, and manage medical emergencies in pets. The course covers topics such as recognizing signs of illness, assessing vital signs, performing CPR, controlling bleeding, bandaging wounds, administering medications, using an AED (automated external defibrillator), and more. It also includes hands-on practice with manikins and other materials. The certification is valid for two years from the date of completion.

The certification can be obtained by attending a PetTech Pet First Aid & CPR class or online course. The classes are typically 4-6 hours long and are offered in locations across the United States. The online course consists of self-paced modules that can be completed at your own pace over the course of several weeks.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the location and type of course chosen. In-person classes typically range from $50-$150 while online courses range from $30-$100.

10. International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) Certification

The International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) is a professional organization that provides certification for canine cosmetologists. The ISCC certification is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of those who practice canine cosmetology, which includes grooming, styling, and coloring services for dogs.

In order to obtain the ISCC certification, applicants must complete an application process that includes a written exam and practical demonstration. The written exam covers topics such as canine anatomy, physiology, nutrition, health care, safety protocols, product selection and usage, salon management practices, customer service techniques, and more. The practical demonstration requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to groom a dog according to industry standards.

The entire certification process can take up to six months or longer depending on the individual’s progress through the application process. Applicants must also pay a fee for the written exam and practical demonstration in order to receive their certification. The cost of the ISCC certification varies depending on the country in which it is obtained but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD.

11. Professional Pet Stylists and Grooming Professionals (PPGP) Certificate

The Professional Pet Stylists and Grooming Professionals (PPGP) Certificate is a certification program offered by the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA). It is designed to recognize professional pet groomers who have achieved a high level of skill and knowledge in their field.

The PPGP Certificate requires successful completion of the NDGAA’s comprehensive grooming curriculum, which covers topics such as safety, health, nutrition, breed-specific trimming, styling, and finishing techniques. The program also includes an extensive hands-on component in order to ensure that students are able to apply the principles they learn in class.

It usually takes between 6 to 12 months to complete the PPGP Certificate program depending on the student's commitment and dedication. The course consists of both online and in-person classes with instructors providing guidance throughout the entire process.

In order to get the PPGP Certificate, students must first register for the program online or through their local NDGAA chapter. After registering, they will be required to submit an application form along with proof of prior experience or education related to pet grooming. Once accepted into the program, students will need to attend all classes and pass a final exam before receiving their certificate.

The cost of the PPGP Certificate varies depending on where you take it and how much time it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2000 USD depending on your individual situation.

Do You Really Need a Pet Groomer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you are considering becoming a professional pet groomer, then it is likely that you will need to obtain some sort of certification. Pet grooming certificates can be obtained through various organizations or schools, and they provide proof that you have completed the necessary training and education to become a competent professional.

Having a certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge of pet grooming techniques and safety protocols, as well as give employers assurance that you are qualified to handle their pets in a safe and knowledgeable manner. It also shows that you have taken the initiative to educate yourself on the industry standards of care for animals, which is an important part of being a responsible pet groomer.

If you plan on working independently as a freelancer or starting your own business, having a pet groomer certificate can also help give potential clients confidence in your services by showing them that you are trained and certified in what you do. This can make it easier for you to find customers who trust your skills as a groomer, which is essential for success in the field.

Overall, having a pet groomer certificate can be beneficial for those who wish to pursue a career in this field. Whether it’s for finding employment opportunities or gaining trust from customers, having proof of your qualifications can go a long way towards helping you stand out from other applicants or competitors.

Related: Pet Groomer Resume Examples

FAQs About Pet Groomer Certifications

1. How do I become a certified pet groomer?

Answer: To become a certified pet groomer, you will need to complete an accredited grooming program and pass the required exams. After that, you can apply for certification from professional organizations such as the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA).

2. What is covered in a pet groomer certification course?

Answer: Pet groomer certification courses typically include instruction in breed-specific styling, bathing and drying, nail trimming and filing, ear cleaning and plucking, skin care, coat trimming, scissoring techniques and more.

3. Is certification necessary to become a pet groomer?

Answer: While it is not legally required to become a pet groomer, it can be beneficial when seeking employment or competing for business. Certification demonstrates that you have the skills necessary to provide quality services to your clients.

4. Are there any prerequisites to get certified as a pet groomer?

Answer: Generally speaking, there are no prerequisites for becoming a certified pet groomer but some organizations may require that applicants have prior experience or training in handling animals before they can apply for certification.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a pet groomer?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a pet groomer varies depending on the organization offering the certification and the type of program chosen by the individual applicant. Generally speaking, most certification programs can be completed within 6 months to 1 year.