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How to Start a Career in Pet Grooming Without Experience

Your Journey to Becoming a Professional Pet Groomer Starts Here

Are you passionate about pets but worried that you lack experience to start a career in pet grooming? Good news – you don't need prior experience to become a professional pet groomer in India. With India's booming pet care industry projected to grow significantly in 2026, now is the perfect time to turn your love for animals into a rewarding career.

Petsburgh offers India's best pet grooming course Mumbai with international ICMG certification by Andrea Khurana. Perfect for beginners. Apply today!

At Petsburgh International Pet Grooming Academy, India's first truly international grooming academy established in 2008, we've trained over 500 successful students—many who have never held a grooming tool before. Under the guidance of Ms. Andrea Cyrill Khurana, an International Certified Master Groomer (ICMG) from IPG USA and President of Professional Pet Groomer's Association India (PPGAI), you can transform from a complete beginner to a certified professional groomer.

Whether you're in Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, or any other Indian city, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your pet grooming career from scratch – including courses, certifications, costs, and earning potential. Why Pet Grooming is a Promising Career in India (2026)

The pet grooming industry in India is experiencing unprecedented growth. Here's why:

  • Growing Pet Ownership: Indian households are increasingly adopting dogs and cats, creating massive demand for professional grooming services

  • Premium Pet Care: Pet parents are willing to invest ₹500-₹2,000 per grooming session for quality care

  • Low Entry Barriers: No degree required – just passion for pets and proper training

  • Flexible Work Options: Work in salons, start your own business, or offer mobile grooming services

  • International Opportunities: With international certification, you can work globally

Average Salary: Freshers earn ₹15,000-₹50,000 per month, while experienced groomers and salon owners can earn ₹1 lakh+ monthly. Do You Need Experience to Become a Pet Groomer?

Short Answer: No, you don't need prior experience.

Most pet grooming courses in India are specifically designed for beginners with zero experience. What you DO need:

Genuine love for animals – Passion is your foundation Patience and calmness – Essential for handling nervous pets

Physical stamina – Grooming involves standing and handling pets for hours Willingness to learn – Both theory and hands-on practice Basic hygiene awareness – Cleanliness is crucial in pet care What About Education Requirements?

Unlike many professions, pet grooming doesn't require specific academic qualifications. Whether you've completed 10th, 12th, or graduation – anyone can enroll in a professional pet grooming course. This makes it an accessible career for school graduates, career changers, homemakers, and pet enthusiasts alike. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start Your Pet Grooming Career in India


Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Pet Grooming Course


Types of Courses Available:

Basic/Foundation Course (1 - 45 Days)

  • Ideal for complete beginners

  • Covers pet handling, breed introduction, bathing techniques

  • Equipment usage and hygiene protocols

  • Cost: ₹7,500 - ₹1,80,000

  • Duration: 3-120 hours


Intermediate/Professional Course (1- 50 days)

  • Salon style cuts

  • Handling behavioural issues

  • Advanced grooming tools and techniques

  • Cost: ₹10,000 - ₹2,80,000

Duration: 3-240 hours

Advanced/Professional Course (1-75 days)

  • Breed-specific styling and cuts

  • Handling behavioural issues

  • Basics of Creative Grooming

  • First-aid for the Salon

  • Advanced grooming tools and techniques

  • Cost: ₹15,000 - ₹3,80,000

Duration: 3-360 hours


Step 2: Select a Reputed Pet Grooming Academy


What to Look For:

🔍 International Affiliation: Academies affiliated with international grooming bodies (ICMG, PPGAI, IPG)

🔍 Hands-On Training: Practical experience with live dogs and cats, not just theory

🔍 Experienced Instructors: Certified master groomers with industry experience

🔍 Placement Support: Job assistance or business setup guidance

🔍 Course Coverage: Both dog AND cat grooming (doubles your opportunities)


Why Choose Petsburgh International Pet Grooming Academy, Mumbai:

India's First Truly International Grooming Academy (Est. 2008)

  • Founded by Ms. Andrea Cyrill Khurana, International Certified Master Groomer (ICMG, IPG USA)

  • Over 500+ successful students trained since 2008

  • Join the legacy of 2000+ successful groomers trained across 4 countries

  • Students have launched grooming businesses in 25+ cities across India

  • Multiple award-winning groomers trained at Petsburgh

  • Curriculum curated from top academies worldwide

  • All instructors are internationally certified

  • President of PPGAI (Professional Pet Groomer's Association India)

  • 18+ years of industry experience and international competition wins

  • Featured on NDTV, CNBC, ET Now, Mid-Day, DNA, and more


Andrea Cyrill Khurana's International Credentials:

  • International Certified Master Groomer (IPG, USA)

  • International Certified Grooming Instructor (Australia & Malaysia)

  • Certified Show Groomer

  • Pet First Aid Certified (PetMedics Australia & AKC USA)

  • Qualified Veterinary Assistant

  • Multiple international grooming competition placements

  • Founder of India's first mobile pet grooming van (2008)


Step 3: Understand the Course Curriculum


A comprehensive pet grooming course for beginners should cover:

Theory Modules:

  • Canine and feline anatomy

  • Breed standards and recognition (Indian and international breeds)

  • Coat types and care requirements

  • Health and hygiene fundamentals

  • Pet psychology and behaviour

  • First aid and emergency care


Practical Training:

  • Pet handling techniques for nervous/aggressive animals

  • Bathing and drying methods by coat type

  • Brushing, de-matting, and de-shedding

  • Nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing

  • Basic clipping and scissoring

  • Breed-specific cuts and styling

  • Mixed breed grooming

  • Cat grooming techniques


Step 4: Get Certified


Upon completion, you'll receive:

  • Course Completion Certificate from your academy

  • Professional Grooming Certification (if internationally affiliated)

  • Portfolio of Work showcasing before/after grooming photos

These credentials are essential for:

  • Getting hired at established pet salons

  • Building client trust for your own business

  • Charging premium rates (₹1,000-₹2,000 per grooming session)


Step 5: Gain Practical Experience

For Beginners Without a Course:

If you can't afford a course immediately, consider:

  1. Apprenticeship: Work as an assistant to a professional groomer

  2. Volunteer: Offer services at animal shelters or NGOs

  3. Practice on Own Pets: Start with basic grooming at home

  4. Online Learning: Watch tutorials to understand basics (but certification is highly recommended)


For Course Graduates:

  • Start as a junior groomer at a pet spa or salon

  • Work on diverse breeds to build experience

  • Take on 5-10 grooming sessions weekly initially

  • Gradually increase complexity and volume

  • Collect client testimonials and before/after photos


Step 6: Choose Your Career Path


Option A: Salaried Employment

  • Work at established pet grooming salons

  • Dog spas, boarding centers, veterinary clinics

  • Starting salary: ₹15,000-₹25,000/month

  • Experience of 2-3 years: ₹30,000-₹50,000/month

  • Benefits: Steady income, learning environment, no investment needed


Option B: Freelance Pet Grooming

  • Work independently with your own clients

  • Offer home visits or mobile grooming

  • Earnings: ₹1000-₹2,000 per session

  • Flexibility to set your schedule

  • Lower overhead than running a salon


Option C: Start Your Own Pet Grooming Salon

  • Initial investment: ₹2-5 lakhs (equipment, space, licensing)

  • Earnings potential: ₹1-3 lakhs monthly after establishment

  • Hire and train junior groomers

  • Build a brand in your locality

  • Potential to franchise or expand


Option D: Specialised Services

  • Mobile grooming van services (high demand in metro cities)

  • Show dog preparation for competitions

  • Training other aspiring groomers

  • Luxury pet spa packages


Pet Grooming Course Fees and Investment in India

Course Costs (2026 Estimates)

Course Type

Duration

Fees Range

Certification

Basic Grooming

1-45 Days

₹7,500 - ₹1,80,000

International Certificate

Intermediate Grooming

1-50 Days

₹10,000 - ₹2,80,000

International Certificate

Advanced Certification

1-75 Days

₹15,000 - ₹3,80,000

International Certificate


Take the First Step Toward Your Pet Grooming Career at Petsburgh | Pet Grooming Course Mumbai

Starting a pet grooming career in India without prior experience is not only possible – it's a strategic move in a booming industry. With the right training from Petsburgh International Pet Grooming Academy, India's first and most prestigious international grooming institute, you can build a fulfilling and profitable career under the mentorship of ICMG certified Master Groomer Andrea Cyrill Khurana.


Your Action Plan:

This Week:

  • Visit www.petsburghgroomingacademy.com to explore course options

  • Schedule a consultation call to discuss your career goals

  • Follow Petsburgh on social media for grooming tips and student success stories

This Month:

  • Enroll in the right Petsburgh certification course for your goals

  • Start following professional groomers and PPGAI on social media

  • Practice gentle pet handling with your own or friends' pets

In 3-6 Months:

  • Complete your Petsburgh certification with hands-on experience

  • Start taking basic grooming assignments or join a salon

  • Build your portfolio with before/after photos and client testimonials


Within a Year:

  • Gain experience with 50+ diverse grooming sessions

  • Consider specialisation (show grooming, cat grooming, mobile grooming)

  • Join PPGAI and attend grooming competitions

  • Plan your own salon setup or advance to senior groomer position


Remember: Every master groomer started as a beginner. Andrea Cyrill Khurana herself started from zero experience in 2008 and became India's leading pet grooming educator and International Certified Master Groomer. Your love for pets combined with proper training at Petsburgh is all you need to succeed in this rewarding profession.



Contact Petsburgh International Pet Grooming Academy

📍Location: Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400053

📱 Phone: +91 [7400193970 | 7045133970]


Connect With Us on Social Media

📸 Instagram: @petsburghmumbai - Daily grooming tips, student transformations, and academy updates

👍 Facebook: Petsburghmumbai - Community of groomers, events, and success stories 🔗 LinkedIn: Andrea Cyrill Khurana - Professional networking and industry insights


Visit Petsburgh Services

Want to see world-class grooming in action before enrolling?

Book a grooming session at Petsburgh Pet Spa or try India's original Mobile Grooming Van!

 
 
 

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