The Colorado dog grooming job market is healthy, with 67 positions posted from employers across 18 communities. Whether you are an experienced pet stylist or a first-time bather, Colorado offers opportunities at every experience level. The largest employer in the state is Zoomin Groomin Colorado, accounting for 16 of those listings.

Leading Pet Grooming Employers in Colorado

Several major pet care brands operate extensively in Colorado, creating a competitive hiring environment that benefits job seekers. The companies with the most open positions right now include Zoomin Groomin Colorado (16 jobs), Zoomin Groomin Fort Collins, CO (8 jobs), Zoomin Groomin Centennial (7 jobs), Petco (5 jobs), Destination Pet (4 jobs). Independent groomers and mobile grooming operators also post regularly, offering alternatives for professionals who prefer smaller team environments.

What Dog Grooming Jobs Can You Find in Colorado?

Here is how the 67 open positions in Colorado break down by specialty: dog groomers (48), pet stylists (10), dog bathers (5), grooming managers (4). Dog groomer positions are the most common, reflecting the industry's core need for skilled coat-care professionals. Bather roles turn over more frequently and are often the fastest to fill, making them a reliable pathway into the profession.

Grooming Pay Range in Colorado

The Colorado grooming salary landscape spans $25,777 to $142,093 annually. Entry-level bathers start toward the lower end, but motivated professionals can move up quickly — groomers with 2-3 years of experience and breed-specific skills typically earn at or above the $69,729 average. Salon managers and lead stylists in high-traffic locations often reach the upper range.

Top Colorado Cities for Dog Groomer Employment

Job seekers in Colorado will find the most options in Denver (12 jobs), Highlands Ranch (9 jobs), Fort Collins (6 jobs), Boulder (6 jobs), Aurora (5 jobs). Metropolitan areas dominate the listings, but rural and suburban communities also have openings — often with less competition and more flexible working arrangements. Mobile grooming positions, which are growing rapidly, may not be tied to a specific city at all.

Breaking Into Pet Grooming in Colorado

The barrier to entry for dog grooming in Colorado is lower than most skilled trades. No formal education is required — just a willingness to learn, physical stamina, and genuine comfort with animals. Start by applying to bather roles listed on this page. Within months, you will develop the foundational skills that grooming builds on. Ambitious candidates who pursue additional certifications and specialize in high-demand services like hand-stripping, Asian fusion cuts, or breed-specific show grooming can accelerate their career trajectory significantly.

Want to find grooming jobs close to home? Visit grooming jobs near me in Colorado to search by city and find local opportunities within commuting distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog grooming jobs are available in Colorado?

Colorado currently has 67 open dog grooming positions across 18 cities. New jobs are added daily from franchises, independent salons, and mobile grooming companies.

What do dog groomers earn in Colorado?

Dog groomer salaries in Colorado range from $25,777 to $142,093 per year based on current listings, with an average of $69,729. Actual earnings are often higher when tips and commission are included.

Do I need a license to be a dog groomer in Colorado?

Colorado requires pet grooming facilities to obtain a Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) license. Individual groomers do not need a personal license.

How do I become a dog groomer in Colorado?

Most dog groomers in Colorado start as bathers at a local salon, learning on the job before advancing to grooming. No formal education is required. Employer-provided training programs, grooming schools, and professional certifications (NDGAA, IPG) can accelerate your career. The typical path from bather to independent groomer takes 6-12 months.