Dog grooming keeps your pet clean, healthy, and comfortable. But if you’ve ever checked prices, you know they can vary a lot. Some dogs cost $30 to groom, while others can run over $100.
Why the big difference? That’s what this guide explains. You’ll learn:
- What’s included in a typical grooming session
- The average cost by dog size and breed
- The main factors that raise or lower the price
Knowing what affects the cost helps you plan ahead and skip surprises.
This article breaks it all down in simple terms so you know exactly what to expect when booking your dog’s next grooming appointment.
What Is Dog Grooming?
When I talk about dog grooming, I mean more than just giving your dog a bath. A grooming session usually includes bathing, brushing, trimming the fur, nail clipping, and ear cleaning.
Each step keeps your dog clean, comfortable, and healthy.
In a basic grooming session, you’ll usually get a wash, dry, nail trim, and light brushing, just enough to keep your dog fresh between full sessions.
A full-service grooming includes a haircut, trim, deep cleaning, and extras like teeth brushing or de-shedding. Basic grooming works well for upkeep, while full-service is better when your dog’s coat needs extra care.
It’s all about what your dog needs and how much time you want to spend maintaining their coat.
How Much Is the Dog Grooming Cost?
When it comes to grooming your dog, the cost depends a lot on their size, coat, and what services you need.
I found that on average, across the country, prices go up as your dog gets bigger or has a thicker coat. Long or curly coats cost more since they take extra time and skill to groom.
These are the average prices for basic grooming, including a bath, brushing, nail trim, and simple haircut:
| Dog Size | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small Dog | $25 to $50 |
| Medium Dog | $50 to $80 |
| Large Dog | $75 to $125 |
The price increases not only with size but also with coat length and complexity.
For example, a small dog with a short coat might cost around $25, but if that same small dog has a long or curly coat, the cost could jump up to $90 or more.
Factors Influencing Dog Grooming Prices
Regular grooming keeps your dog clean and healthy, but costs vary. Factors like breed, coat type, and location all play a part. This is what affects the price and how to plan your budget.
1. Breed
Your dog’s breed affects the time and skill needed for grooming. Breeds like Poodles and Shih Tzus need detailed cuts, while short-haired dogs like Beagles are faster to groom.
Specialty breeds may also need specific styling, which adds cost.
Groomers often charge more when a breed needs precision clipping or scissoring to meet its coat pattern or show-style look.
2. Coat Condition
A clean, brushed coat makes grooming faster and cheaper. But a tangled or matted coat takes much longer to fix.
I’ve seen groomers charge extra for de-matting since it’s careful work that requires time and patience.
If your dog’s fur is in bad shape, the groomer may have to shave parts of it for comfort and safety. Regular brushing at home can help you avoid these extra charges and reduce grooming stress.
3. Location
Where you live plays a big role in how much you pay. Grooming services in busy cities or expensive neighborhoods usually cost more due to higher rent and operating costs.
A full grooming session that costs $60 in a small town might reach $100 or more in a large metro area.
I’ve found that nearby suburbs or mobile groomers sometimes offer the same quality for less, especially if you’re willing to travel a bit.
4. Type of Service
The type of grooming you choose makes a big difference. Basic grooming includes a bath, brushing, nail trim, and drying, while a full-service grooming adds haircuts, styling, and extras like teeth brushing or de-shedding.
Some salons even have spa packages with conditioning treatments or scented shampoos that increase the price.
I always suggest asking for a detailed price list to pick what your dog truly needs without paying for unnecessary add-ons.
5. Frequency of Grooming
How often you schedule grooming affects both cost and coat health. If you go every 4 to 8 weeks, your dog’s coat stays clean and easy to manage, which saves money in the long run.
Waiting too long between visits often leads to tangles, buildup, and longer appointments.
I’ve found that regular grooming not only reduces future costs but also keeps your dog comfortable and helps prevent skin problems.
Salon vs Mobile Grooming: Which Costs More?
Both salon and mobile grooming have their perks, but the right choice depends on your schedule, budget, and your dog’s comfort level.
I’ve compared the two below so you can easily see which option fits your needs best.
| Feature | Salon Grooming | Mobile Grooming |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | You bring your dog to the salon; good if you’re running errands nearby. | The groomer comes to you; great for busy schedules or anxious pets. |
| Cost | Usually cheaper since there are no travel fees. | Costs more because of travel time and mobile setup expenses. |
| Service Range | Offers full services like haircuts, baths, nail trims, and spa add-ons. | Similar services, though some may skip extras like deep de-shedding. |
| Time | May require waiting or drop-off time, especially on weekends. | Faster since your dog gets one-on-one attention right at home. |
| Best For | Owners who want full services at a lower cost and don’t mind the trip. | Owners who value convenience or have nervous dogs that prefer home grooming. |
Tips to Save on Dog Grooming Costs
Grooming can add up over time, but there are easy ways to keep your costs in check. I’ve picked out a few simple tips that can help you save money while still keeping your dog clean and cared for.
- Brush at home regularly: Brushing a few times a week keeps your dog’s coat clean and reduces matting, which saves money at the groomer.
- Book basic services only: Skip extras like fancy shampoos or add-ons unless your dog really needs them.
- Ask about bundled packages: Many groomers offer discounts if you book bath and trim services together.
- Join loyalty or referral programs: Some salons give discounts after a certain number of visits or when you refer new clients.
- Stretch time between visits: If you handle small tasks like brushing or nail clipping at home, you can go longer between full grooming sessions.
- Try local or mobile groomers: Smaller businesses or new groomers sometimes offer lower rates to build clients.
- Keep your dog calm and clean before visits: A calm, well-kept dog is easier to groom, which can mean a quicker (and cheaper) session.
DIY Grooming for Maintenance
I’ve learned that DIY grooming between salon visits helps your dog stay clean and saves money. You don’t need professional tools, just a slicker brush, nail clippers, dog-safe shampoo, and ear-cleaning wipes.
Brushing a few times a week removes loose hair, prevents tangles, and helps you spot skin issues early.
For ears, use a soft wipe or cotton pad with a vet-approved cleaner, and always dry them to prevent infections. Nail trimming takes patience.
Cut only small sections at a time, and stop if you see a pinkish area (the quick). Bathing once a month with mild shampoo is usually enough unless your dog gets muddy often.
I’ve noticed that staying calm and giving treats during grooming keeps my dog relaxed.
Doing small maintenance tasks at home keeps your dog comfortable, reduces shedding, and makes professional grooming faster and cheaper in the long run.
Conclusion
I’ve learned that dog grooming is about more than looks; it’s part of your dog’s care and comfort. Clean fur, trimmed nails, and fresh ears help your pet feel good and stay healthy.
Costs can vary, but what matters most is finding what works best for your budget and your dog’s needs.
You don’t have to pick the most expensive service to get great care. A little maintenance at home also goes a long way.
I hope this guide helps you plan smart, save money, and keep your dog happy.
If you’re ready to start, schedule your next grooming session or gather your supplies and try a few tasks at home. Your dog will thank you for it!
