How to Become a Certified Groomer: The Professional Path
If you’re brand-new, we’ll help you understand your options and guide you to trusted beginner resources.
If you already groom, we’ll help you gain the credentials and recognition you’ve earned.
Why Certification Matters
Why Certification Matters
Grooming Certification Explained: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and Why It Matters
The WPGA is a state-licensed, Department of Education–approved career school, offering professional diploma programs that qualify graduates for IAPEG international certification, the gold standard for grooming professionals around the world.
Whether You’re New or Experienced
In grooming, anyone can take a short online course, but not everyone can earn credentials that truly mean something.
At The Whole Pet Grooming Academy, we believe recognition should be earned through formal education, real assessment, and verified standards.
In this quick video, you’ll learn what real certification looks like, how it’s recognized through IAPEG worldwide, and why DOE-approved programs matter for your long-term career.
Thinking About Grooming School?
Watch This First:
5 Things to Check Before You Enroll in a Pet Grooming School
Not every grooming school is created equal.
Whether you’re exploring your first course or looking to advance your career, it’s important to know what to look for, so you invest your time and money wisely.
Watch this quick guide to learn the five things every groomer should know before choosing a program.
If you’re completely new to grooming, start with our free Grooming Career Guide—it walks you through beginner training options and next steps.
👉 Already grooming? Explore our Professional Programs to see how you can qualify for certification.
Lisa Herbold shares why The Whole Pet Grooming Academy (WPGA) is the Ivy League of grooming education. In this video, Lisa talks about what makes WPGA different from the rest: ✂️ DOE-approved diploma programs 🌎 International IAPEG certification 🤝 A professional community that celebrates recognition
The best proof of professional education is what our graduates do next.
Hear from Lisa Herbold, a WPGA alum, author, educator, and owner of the distribution company, Groomerverse, who teaches our next generation of groomers.