How Much Does Dog Grooming Cost?
There are many options when trying to find a dog groomer. Some people do it out of their homes, some provide “mobile grooming” and come to your house, and there are many companies such as Petco that offer grooming services in store.
How much is it?
- Most grooming services offer two basic types: full-service groom and bath-only groom. Bath-only grooms may be about 25% cheaper than the prices listed below.
- The cost of grooming a small breed of dog, such as the Bishon Frise and Maltese, will be between $25-$50.
- The cost of grooming a medium breed of dog, such as the Labrador Retriever or Chow, will be $50-$70.
- The cost of grooming a large breed, such as the poodle or Briard, or a long-haired medium breed, will cost $70-$100.
- For example, Hollywood Pet Wash located in Hollywood, California has prices that range anywhere from $35 to as much as $125. Small dogs with a cut will cost $45 to $50, while a large dog will cost $65 to $125 with a cut.
What is going to be included?
- A bath-only grooming service will usually include brushing out the dog’s coat, giving the dog a bath, blow drying the dog’s coat, and cleaning the dog’s ears. Most groomers also include a ribbon or bandana for looks and possibly some fragrance.
- A full-service groom should include all of the services a bath-only groom includes as well as cutting and/or styling the dog’s hair and clipping the dog’s nails.
- Some grooming service include a check of the anal glands; others charge extra for this service.
What are the extra costs?
- Clipping of the nails in addition to a bath-only groom will cost between $7-$15 extra.
- Using a medicated shampoo or shampoo specializing in killing fleas will usually cost about $10 extra.
- Having your dog’s teeth cleaned at a groomer’s, while not as extensive as the teeth cleaning done by a veterinarian, will cost about $10-$20 more. See: “How much does dog teeth cleaning cost?“
- Mobile groomers charge a service fee in addition to the grooming fee. This is usually $15-$25.
- If the dog’s hair is matted or knotted, making it harder for the groomer to perform the job, the cost can range anywhere from $5 to $30 extra.
- Customized cuts such as a mohawk or poodle feet can cost an extra $5 to $25 depending on the style and dog size.
- Dog grooming services can perform other services such as anal gland expression, de-skunking, ear cleaning, tick removal and more.
Tips to know:
- If taking your dog to the groomer, be sure to consider an ear cleaning. These cleanings can help prevent things such as fungus, waxy ears and mites.
- Consider the weather when grooming your dog. If the weather is going to be cooler in the upcoming months, it may be ideal to keep a thicker coat. Most groomers will be able to recommend what they deem necessary.
- Make it a habit to comb your dog at least once a week. Since most pet owners only take their animals in once a month, combing will help prevent matting and knot build-up.
- When starting up grooming, try your best to keep a regular schedule. It’s always best to bring your dog into a groomer when it has been walked around the block, ensuring that the dog is calm.
How can I save money?
- Most grooming shops have some type of loyal customer rewards, such as a free groom after purchasing so many full-service grooms.
- Some grooming services have customer referral programs which allow you discounts for every customer you refer to them.
- At-home dog grooming can save you money in the long run, but in order to do a good job you have to have the right tools. Professional dog clippers, such as the Oster 78004-011, will cost between $40-$150 depending on the features and brand. Nail clippers come in many different varieties, such as clippers or grinders, and can cost anywhere from $5-$35. For example, a basic hand-held clipper for nails by Conair will cost $6, while a nail grinder from Oster will cost about $30. A professional dog brush can cost between $6 and $50 depending on the style, brand, and size. A normal hand held dog brush from Safari will cost about $13, while a brush like the FURminator will cost $25-$50.
How much did you spend?