How Much Does Dog Grooming Cost?
Dog grooming is more than a luxury it s actually a key part of maintaining your pup s good health and wellbeing. For most animal lovers, however, the question lingers – how much is dog grooming anyway? The answer isn’t straightforward, because prices can vary greatly depending on your dog’s size, breed, coat condition, location and the services you select. In this article, we’ll cover the average expenses, factors that influence them and how to budget for your dog’s grooming needs. I hope this blog helps you learn about How Much Does Dog Grooming Cost.
Read More About Dog Grooming Prices
Dog grooming fees may range from $25 for a basic session with a small, short-haired dog, to $200 for a large dog with a dense coat that needs special attention. Most people will spend at least $40 for the cost of grooming a medium sized dog and on average a typical grooming visit will cost somewhere in the $75 to $100 range.
General Price Ranges Based on Dog and Coat Size
| Dog Size | Basic Bath/Brush | Full Grooming Package |
| Small (<20 lbs) | $25–$50 | $75-$125 |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | $50-$75 | $125-$175 |
| Large (50–80 lbs) | $75-$125 | $175-$200 |
| Giant (>80 lbs) | $125-$200 | $200+ |
Note: Prices may be higher in larger cities or for specialized services.
Things That Affect the Price of Dog Grooming
There are a few big factors that affect the cost you’ll pay for grooming:
- Dog Size: Bigger dogs naturally take longer to groom, use more shampoo and cause more wear-and-tear, so grooming costs more for them.
- Breed and Coat Type: Breeds that have very thick, curly or long coats (think Poodles, Doodles or Shih Tzus) generally require the sort of cut and more extensive treatment that costs more.
- Additional Fees for Coat Condition: Your dog should be looking his best after his trip to the groomer, but if his coat is a knotted mess, or not properly cared for since his last session, you may be charged an extra fee to dematt his coat, which takes a little extra work and time.
- Services Requested: Basic packages usually include a bath, brush, nail trim and ear cleaning. Full grooming packages include haircuts, de-shedding and sometimes extras like teeth cleaning or flea treatment, all with their own fees.
- Location: Grooming in a high-cost-of-living area or an urban area is generally going to be more on the expensive side because of the additional overhead.
- Experience and Reputation of the Groomer: When you hire seasoned groomers or people with specialized education, you may need to pay top dollar.
- Dog’s Temperament: Nervous or violent dogs that require additional time and handling will incur higher fees.
Grooming Services and Rates Demystified
- Bath & Brush: $25 to $90, depending on size and coat.
- Full Groom (haircut included): $75–$200+, depending on size, coat type, and breed.
- Nail Trim: $10–$20.
- Ear Cleaning: $10–$15.
- Teeth Brushing: $10–$15.
- De-shedding/De-matting: $20–$50+. typically priced by time or level of severity.
- Specialty Services (flea/tick treatment, blueberry facials, paw balm): $5–$20 each.
Is Mobile Dog Grooming More Expensive?
With mobile dog grooming, you get the benefit of a groomer coming to your home. This service tends to be pricier as a result, and on average, per session, provides to set you back between $60–$100 more if your dog is on the larger side or needs a bit more “splendiferous” maintenance. The additional cost is due to the travel and equipment needs as well as the one on one care4.
DIY/Self-Service Pet Grooming choices
Budget-minded dog owners have access to pet store or specialty shop self-service dog wash stations that charge $11 to $23 a session. At home grooming DIY grooming at home is the most cost-effective, but you have to be willing to purchase the tools and learn the right way to do it.
Frequency and Long-Term Costs
How frequently your dog needs grooming is based on his breed, coat type and lifestyle. Short haired breeds might only need to come to the groomer every 8-12 weeks, medium to long coated, or curly coated breeds every 4-6 weeks. Regular grooming can keep cost down over time by preventing matting and coat neglect that accumulate more charges for extra labor.
Sample grooming price list (2025)
Here’s a look at what some major chains and independent groomers are charging in five years:
| Groomer | Small Dog | Medium Dog | Large Dog |
| Petco | $45-$65 | $55–$75 | $65–$95 |
| Petsmart | $31–$61 |
$35–$75 |
$49–$89 |
| Independent | $25–$50 | $50–$90 | $75–$150 |
| Mobile Groomer | $60–$100+ | $80–$150+ | $120–$200+ |
Note: Prices vary across the country, so please call your local groomer for a quote.
FAQs
Why do grooming rates fluctuate so widely among dogs?
Grooming rates are determined by the size of your dog, breed of dog, type of coat, coat condition and what you would like done. A large long-haired dog with mats will cost more to groom than a small short-haired dog that is in good condition.
How often should I take my dog to be groomed professionally?
Most breeds do best with grooming every 4–8 weeks. If you have a long-haired or curly-coated pup, grooming every 4-6 weeks will probably be appropriate, but if you have a short-furred baby you may be able to stretch it out to every 8-12 weeks.
And are mobile dog groomers worth the extra money?
Mobile groomers are costly for the obvious reason that they are the spa on wheels, as noted above — think of a masseur coming to your house and rubbing your back on the kitchen table and you have a sense of the type of personalized service your dog is getting.” Mobile groomers are expensive (there are many costs associated with coming to your home), but they are super convenient, and maybe less stressful, especially for dogs that tend to get freaked out by leaving the house.
Despite the additional charge, a lot owners consider it value for money for their pet’s comfort and attention.
How can I prevent grooming costs from getting out of hand?
Regularly brush your dog at home, stay on top of basic grooming (nail trims), and make appointments often to keep mats and tangles away. Some groomers may have loyalty programs, in which a discount is given to those who bring their dog in regularly, or packages where several grooming visits yields a discount.
Should I tip my dog groomer? How much?
Gratuity is customary and appreciated. Standard is a tip of 15–20% of the grooming bill, especially if your groomer does a great job or manages a difficult pet.
Final Thought
Dog grooming is an investment into your dog’s health as well as his or her appearance. Although the price will depend greatly on the size, breed, location and extra services an owner requests, most owners will pay between $40–$100 per session for standard grooming. These mobile and specialty services may be more expensive, but the convenience and personalized care is well worth it to many families.
And by getting to know what influences grooming costs and caring for your dog’s coat at home, you can help your four-legged buddy feel and look their best without taking a significant chunk out of your wallet. Remember to always speak with your local groomer for an accurate quote that is customized to you and your dog, and remember, a well-groomed dog is a happy, healthy one.
