The American Kennel Club acquires grooming certification program

The American Kennel Club (AKC) announced the acquisition of the Professional Grooming Credential (PGC) from its current owner, the World Pet Association (WPA).

The dog pedigree registry in the United States is expected to acquire this program to ensure the credential “is available to workforce development programs and community colleges around the country.”

“We have watched this program grow since its inception in 2020 and are thrilled to be able to offer it to groomers who are committed to delivering the highest quality service to dogs and their owners,” Brandi H. Munden, AKC’s Vice President of Public Relations and Communications, tells GlobalPETS.

How does the program work?

The PGC is described as the “first measuring system in the world to assess groomers in a recognized standardized exam.”  

It is valid for 5 years, and passing the exam indicates “core competency knowledge and skills” to offer professional grooming services.

Maintaining the credential requires an ongoing continuing education requirement of 25 hours. Areas tested include consultation and check-in before service, bathing, drying, finish grooming, client communication post-service and facility and personnel management.