Dog Grooming Apprenticeship

Based at Chester-le-Street & Low Fell • Training at our new Academy in Hebburn

We’re My Dog Barber — your local, independent chain of dog grooming salons in the North East. For over a decade, we’ve been helping dogs look and feel their best through expert, tailored care in a calm, friendly environment. Every dog is treated as an individual, and we work closely with owners to build trust, confidence, and lasting results.

Now, through our brand-new Training Academy, we’re excited to train the next generation of professional dog groomers — offering accessible, hands-on learning and industry-accredited qualifications.

If you’ve always dreamed of a career working with dogs, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

About the Role

We’re offering an exciting Dog Grooming Apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience in our Chester-le-Street and Low Fell salons with expert-led training at our new Training Academy in Hebburn.

You’ll learn every part of the grooming process, from welcoming clients and handling dogs safely to washing, drying, styling, and finishing different breeds and coat types.

Your day-to-day duties will include:

  • Welcoming clients and their dogs to the salon

  • Washing, drying, and brushing dogs

  • Trimming nails and cleaning teeth

  • Assisting stylists with clipping, trimming, and finishing

  • Maintaining a clean, safe, and positive salon environment

What You’ll Gain

  • Real salon experience alongside our professional stylists

  • Comprehensive training at our purpose-built Academy in Hebburn

  • Skills in dog preparation, styling, finishing, and canine care

  • A supportive, friendly team dedicated to helping you succeed

This is a fantastic opportunity to start your career in dog grooming and work towards becoming a confident, qualified stylist.

What We’re Looking For

  • A genuine passion for dogs and their wellbeing

  • Eagerness to learn and develop new skills

  • A hardworking, reliable attitude and friendly personality

  • GCSE Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths (desired but not essential)

Training & Support

  • Full training provided by My Dog Barber and KEITS Training Services Ltd

  • You’ll work towards a Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship

  • Regular visits and mentoring from an industry training consultant

  • Assessment through a portfolio of work and an End Point Assessment (EPA)

Future Progression

Successful apprentices may have the opportunity to continue into a permanent stylist position within our salons.

Apply