HHH Canine Lodge & Ranch is hiring a Full-Time Professional Dog Groomer to deliver safe, consistent, high-quality grooms inside a structured, dog-first facility that also provides boarding and training.
This role is for a groomer who takes their trade seriously—someone who can work independently, handle dogs confidently, communicate professionally with clients, and uphold sanitation and safety standards without constant supervision.
We are not a speed shop. We prioritize dog welfare, clean work, and consistent outcomes.
ResponsibilitiesGrooming Outcomes
- Provide professional grooming services, including bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts, trimming, nail care, ear cleaning, and finishing work
- Deliver consistent, balanced, well-finished grooms that meet HHH standards
- Groom across a variety of coat types (including doodle/mixed coats and double coats) with correct technique and ethical coat care
- Identify coat/skin issues (matting, irritation, dryness, hotspots, ear concerns) and communicate clearly with clients
Safety & Dog Handling
- Handle dogs calmly and safely using low-stress methods
- Make real-time safety decisions: modify or stop a groom if the dog becomes overly stressed or unsafe
- Maintain safe tool control and a clean, organized grooming setup at all times
- Uphold a strong safety record and report any incidents immediately and professionally
Client Experience
- Complete professional intake and handoff with clear communication
- Educate clients on coat condition, realistic outcomes, grooming maintenance, and rebooking needs
- Build trust and long-term client relationships through quality work and consistent professionalism
Sanitation & Standards
- Maintain strict sanitation standards: tools, station, tubs, and grooming environment cleaned properly between dogs and throughout the day
- Follow facility SOPs and contribute to a department that runs on structure, not shortcuts
- Communicate proactively with the team regarding timing changes, dog behavior concerns, or equipment needs
Work Environment & Tools
HHH provides the grooming infrastructure: tables, tubs, dryers, brushes/combs, and a professional grooming space.
Groomers are expected to provide their own trade tools, including shears, clippers, guard combs/blades, an apron, and preferred finishing tools—similar to a hairdresser bringing their own equipment.
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have professional dog grooming experience, including independent (start-to-finish) grooming in a salon/shop setting?
- Are you able to provide your own grooming trade tools (shears, clippers, blades/guards, apron, finishing tools)?
- Are you comfortable working in a structured facility with strict sanitation, safety, and SOP standards?
- Are you comfortable stopping or modifying a groom if a dog becomes unsafe or overly stressed?
- How many years have you groomed professionally? (short answer or multiple choice)
- What coat types are you confident in grooming?
- What services can you complete independently?
- What is your average time for a full haircut groom on a medium-sized dog (when coat condition is normal)?
Experience:
- Dog Grooming: 1 year (Required)
Location:
- East Canaan, CT 06024 (Preferred)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- East Canaan, CT 06024 (Required)
Work Location: In person