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How to Become a Pet Groomer: Australian Careers in Veterinary Nurse

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What is a Pet Groomer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Pet Groomer?

A pet groomer washes, dries, brushes, cuts and styles pets’ coats. They also clip nails and clean ears. In Australia, around 5,700 people work as pet groomers (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Most work in grooming salons, veterinary clinics, pet shops, or as mobile groomers.

Pet groomers work with dogs, cats, and other small animals. They check each animal’s coat and temperament before starting. Groomers ask owners about the style they want. They adjust their approach for anxious or nervous animals.

Daily tasks include bathing and blow-drying, removing mats, and performing breed-specific cuts. Groomers also sanitise tools and keep their workspace clean. Some choose to specialise in show cuts for competitive events.

Demand for pet grooming services is moderate and steady (Your Career, 2025). Australia has a high rate of pet ownership, which supports ongoing demand. Groomers can work for an employer or run their own business.

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Career snapshots For Pet Groomers

Pet groomers hold around 5,700 jobs in Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Around 87% of the workforce is female, and the median age is 38 (Your Career, 2025). Only 35% of pet groomers work full-time. Those in full-time roles average 42 hours per week.

Median weekly earnings are $1,280, which equals around $66,560 a year (Your Career, 2025). Future demand is rated as moderate. The pet services sector continues to grow as Australians own more pets.

What will I do?

Pet groomers provide grooming services that keep pets clean, healthy, and well-presented. Their work ranges from basic bathing to complex breed-specific styling. Good groomers read animal behaviour and adjust their technique for each pet’s needs.

  • Bathing and drying pets to remove dirt and loose fur
  • Brushing and combing coats to remove tangles and mats
  • Clipping and styling fur to breed standards or owner preferences
  • Trimming nails to a safe length
  • Cleaning and inspecting ears to prevent infections
  • Consulting with pet owners about grooming preferences and pet health
  • Cleaning and sanitising tools and equipment after each use
  • Monitoring pets for signs of stress or discomfort during sessions
  • Safely handling and restraining animals during grooming
  • Advising owners on coat care between visits

What skills do I need?

Pet groomers need a mix of practical and people skills. The physical side of the job calls for stamina and steady hands. Groomers must work safely with animals of all sizes and temperaments.

Groomers must understand animal behaviour so they can spot stress signals and keep sessions calm. Good communication is also key. Groomers talk with owners daily and need to share observations clearly. Attention to detail matters, as precise cuts and thorough cleaning are central to the role.

Skills/attributes

  • Animal handling and behaviour awareness
  • Grooming techniques for different breeds and coat types
  • Attention to detail
  • Patience and empathy with animals
  • Physical stamina
  • Communication skills with pet owners
  • Time management across multiple appointments
  • Customer service skills
  • Knowledge of pet health and hygiene
  • Ability to work independently or in a team
  • Creative styling skills
  • Problem-solving under pressure
  • Basic first aid knowledge for animals

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.