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The PGC exam has 100 questions and runs 3 hours.
These 10 free PGC questions are organized by exam domain, so you can see how each part of the AKC Professional Grooming Credential (PGC) blueprint is tested. Reveal the answer and explanation under each question.
A groomer's table is at a comfortable height when working on the near side of a large dog. To reach the far flank, the groomer repeatedly bends and twists across the table. Which change most directly removes the source of strain?
Correct answer: D - Move around the table to keep the working area close to the body.
Halfway through drying, a dog develops frantic panting, heavy drooling, and an unsteady stance. The groomer switches off the dryer and moves the dog to a cool, ventilated area. What should happen without waiting for the owner's arrival?
Correct answer: A - Begin cooling with cool water and airflow while arranging immediate veterinary care.
A dog is secured in a tub when the groomer needs supplies from another room. A trained assistant has finished putting another dog safely into its kennel and is available to help. Which arrangement allows the groomer to leave without a gap in supervision?
Correct answer: C - Have the assistant stand within arm's reach and confirm taking responsibility before leaving.
At a puppy's first grooming visit, the dryer initially causes the puppy to lean away and stop taking owner-approved treats. With the dryer farther away at a lower setting, the puppy relaxes and takes treats again. There is no trembling, escape attempt, or breathing difficulty. How should the introduction progress?
Correct answer: A - Continue brief exposures at this level; progress only while the puppy stays comfortable.
The salon learns that a dog groomed earlier has veterinarian-confirmed ringworm. Its station has been cleaned. The EPA-registered disinfectant's label specifies 1 part concentrate plus 31 parts water for bacterial disinfection, but 1 part concentrate plus 15 parts water for fungicidal use against dermatophytes. To prepare 960 mL of the solution needed here, what should the groomer measure?
Correct answer: D - 60 mL concentrate and 900 mL water
A disinfectant label requires a cleaned table to remain continuously wet for 10 minutes. The first application dries after 4 minutes. The table is sprayed again and stays wet for 6 minutes, then dries completely. The employee records 10 minutes of contact and prepares to reuse the table. Which correction is required?
Correct answer: A - Reapply, keeping the table continuously wet for a new 10-minute period.
The veterinary intake note for a French Bulldog lists stenotic nares. Before choosing restraint and drying methods, the groomer needs to understand this finding. What anatomical change does the term describe?
Correct answer: B - Abnormally narrow nostril openings
A Siberian Husky is shedding heavily. The groomer finds loose, soft undercoat beneath an intact outer coat; the skin is healthy and there are no mats. The owner wants less loose hair without changing the dog's natural outline. Which technique fits that goal?
Correct answer: C - Use a suitable undercoat rake in sections, preserving the sound guard hairs.
'Give her a puppy cut, but not as short as last time,' says a new client. The salon has no previous grooming record or photograph, and the coat can safely support several styles. Which response is most likely to prevent a mismatch at pickup?
Correct answer: B - Agree on body length and styling for the face, ears, legs, and tail.
Only one small, loose tangle remains in a Maltese's flank hair. The skin is visible and uninflamed, and the dog stays relaxed during gentle handling. The owner prefers to retain the coat's length. Select the appropriate way to address this tangle.
Correct answer: B - Support the hair near its base and gently separate the loose ends in small sections.
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