Ever thought about packing in your 9-5 and working with dogs instead? You’re not alone – dog grooming has become an increasingly popular career move.
But before you swap your desk for a grooming table, it’s worth knowing what’s actually involved. It’s not all cockapoo cuddles and blow dries – dog grooming is a skilled, hands-on job that requires training, patience and a lot more graft than you might think. We caught up with the team at Mrs B’s in Headingley to get the lowdown on what the job’s really like, and how you can get started.
It’s more technical (and demanding) than you might expect…
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If you’ve watched dog grooming videos on TikTok and thought it looked pretty straightforward, you wouldn’t be the first. But as the team at Mrs B’s put it, “it’s much more complicated than that.”
Behind every top-tier trim is a job that requires proper training, experience and a serious amount of skill. It’s not just about how a dog looks – it’s about handling them safely, understanding behaviour and knowing how to work with different coats, breeds and temperaments. And with professional equipment costing thousands, it’s a far cry from a quick DIY job at home.
It’s also physically demanding. Dog groomers are on their feet all day, lifting and working with dogs of all sizes – some of which aren’t too thrilled about bath time. Add in the mental side of things, like managing nervous or reactive dogs, and it’s clear that this is a role that takes patience, focus and real confidence.
…but it’s endlessly rewarding
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For all the challenges, ask any groomer why they do it and you’ll likely get the same answer – for the dogs.
“You get to spend your day with animals that you love,” the team at Mrs B’s say – and that’s a huge part of the appeal. Over time, you start to build strong bonds with the dogs you see regularly, learning their personalities, their quirks and what makes them feel comfortable.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is seeing that trust grow. With the right handling and care, dogs that arrive nervous and unsure can become calmer and more confident with each and every visit – something groomers take real pride in.
It’s why so many people are drawn to dog grooming as a career change. Whether you’re looking to get into something more hands-on or you’re after a completely fresh start, grooming offers the chance to do something practical, creative and genuinely fulfilling.
Mrs B’s makes it easy to get started
Credit: Mrs B’s Dog Grooming
If it’s sounding like the kind of career move you’ve been dreaming about, the first step is getting properly trained – and that’s where Mrs B’s comes in.
Based in Headingley, Mrs B’s runs OFQUAL-regulated iPET Level 3 courses designed to take you from complete beginner to qualified groomer. Whichever course you go for, you’ll be shown the ropes in a real working salon, so you’re not just learning theory – you’re grooming dogs from day one and building up your confidence quickly.
The training goes way beyond clipping and styling too. You’ll learn canine first aid, including CPR and injury care, alongside all the practical skills needed to handle dogs safely and professionally. There’s even guidance on how to set up and run your own salon – ideal if you’re thinking long term.
The results speak for themselves. From career changers opening their own salons within months, to students being offered jobs straight after qualifying, Mrs B’s has built a reputation as one of the busiest grooming academies in the UK. If you’re serious about making the switch, it’s the perfect place to start.
Thinking about becoming a dog groomer?
Mrs B’s Dogs offers OFQUAL-regulated iPET courses in Headingley, with hands-on training, expert support and real career outcomes.
