Professional Dog Grooming Certification Program

Turn Your Passion for Dogs into a Rewarding Career

Madison College’s Professional Dog Grooming Certification Program provides the expert training, hands-on experience, and industry knowledge you need to succeed in this growing field.

Graduates of this program will receive the American Kennel Club Professional Groomer Credential (AKC-PGC) upon completion.

With this credential, you could go on to work in a salon or even start your own business!

Program starting on September 29, 2026 and ends February 16, 2027. View Courses.

About the Program

Led by Marci Wanta, owner and professional groomer at Blossom Pet Salon and Kelsey Keyes, owner and professional groom at Artepupp Pet Grooming Company, this program is designed to equip you with essential grooming skills, from breed-specific techniques to coat care and health maintenance.

What You'll Learn

Fundamental grooming techniques for various dog breeds
Safe handling and pet care best practices
Tools, equipment, and sanitation essentials
How to work with real clients in a salon environment

How You'll Learn

This program combines online coursework with in-person, hands-on training in a professional salon to get you real-world experience.

Online classes will give you a strong foundation in grooming theory, safety protocols and breed standards.
Your in-person training will be held at Blossom Pet Salon, 416 W. Verona Ave., Verona. (Google Map) or Artepupp Pet Grooming Company, 2964 Ochalla drive Fitchburg (Google Map)

Program Cost

The total cost of the program is $4,799.

This includes your textbook and a professional grooming kit (valued at $1,000) that you’ll use throughout the program and beyond.

Payments

$3,267.99 due Sept. 30, 2026
$1,531.01 due Feb. 15, 2027

Grooming Services

We now have students at Artepupp Pet Grooming Company in Fitchburg and Blossom Pet Salon in Verona. These student groomers are supervised by professionals and deliver quality care for all breeds.

Your appointment helps train the next generation of grooming experts.