How to Start a Career in Pet Grooming Without Experience
- Priyanka Aher
- Feb 3
- 6 min read
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.

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:
Apprenticeship: Work as an assistant to a professional groomer
Volunteer: Offer services at animal shelters or NGOs
Practice on Own Pets: Start with basic grooming at home
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
🌐 Website: www.petsburghgroomingacademy.com
📧 Email: info@petsburghgroomingacademy.com
📍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!
Website: www.petsburghonline.com




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