Quick Answer: How much does dog grooming cost?
- Basic bath: Often around $25–$50, depending on your dog’s size, coat, and location.
- Full groom: Often around $65–$175+, with larger dogs and thick, curly, long, or matted coats generally costing more.
- What affects the price: Your pup’s size, coat type and condition, add-on services included, and local market can all influence the final bill.
Dog grooming costs vary extensively, which can make it tricky to know whether you’re getting a fair price. The lowest quote may also include fewer services than you expect.
At Paws ‘n’ Rec, we provide grooming services, puppy boarding, and daycare membership to pups across Florida, Arkansas, and Nevada. Our team knows that no two pups or grooming appointments are exactly alike. From what’s included in a full groom to price factors, here’s everything you need to know about dog grooming costs before booking your pup’s next appointment.
What a Full Dog Grooming Service Typically Includes
A dog grooming service can include different services and packages, depending on the groomer. Prices also vary based on factors such as your dog’s size, coat, location, and included services. Here’s a general breakdown of what pet parents may expect:
| Service Tier | Typical Inclusions | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bath & Brush | Bath, dry, brush | $25–$50 |
| Full Groom | Bath, dry, brush, haircut/trim | $65–$175+ |
| Puppy’s First Groom | Gentle introductory grooming | Varies |
| Add-Ons | Specialty coat, nail, or hygiene services | Varies |
Bath and Brush vs. Full Groom — What’s the Difference?
A bath and brush works well when a pup needs a good wash, dry, and brush-out without a haircut. A full groom adds clipping or scissor work and may include services such as nail trimming and ear cleaning. We recommend confirming what’s included before booking.
Common Add-On Services and What They Typically Cost
Services such as nail grinding, dematting, specialty shampoos, de-shedding treatments, and fresh-breath care may cost extra depending on the groomer. Dog groomers should explain add-on pricing before work begins, especially when coat condition requires additional time.
What Affects Dog Grooming Cost? The 5 Key Pricing Factors
Average dog grooming prices vary based on your pup’s size, coat type and condition, requested services, location, and the groomer’s experience.
Dog Size — The Biggest Single Pricing Variable
Larger dogs generally require more shampoo, drying time, brushing, and handling, which can raise the price. Still, size is only a starting point: a small pup with a dense or heavily tangled coat may require more grooming time than a large, short-coated dog.
| Dog Size | Weight | Typical Full Groom Range |
| Small | Under 20 lbs. | $65–$90 |
| Medium | 20–50 lbs. | $85–$120 |
| Large | 50–80 lbs. | $105–$145 |
| Extra-Large | 80+ lbs. | $140–$175+ |
Coat Type and Condition — Why Two Dogs of the Same Breed Can Cost Differently
Short, smooth coats generally require less grooming time than dense double coats or curly coats that need extensive brushing, drying, or trimming. Matting can also increase the price because safely working through a tangled coat takes additional time and care. Severe matting may require clipping rather than extensive dematting.
Location, Facility Type, and Groomer Experience
Where you live and how groomers provide services can also affect dog grooming costs. Mobile services, retail salons, independent groomers, and multi-service pet care facilities operate differently. Additionally, experienced or professionally trained groomers may price services according to their expertise.
Typical Dog Grooming Price Ranges by Breed Type (2026 Reference Guide)
These general 2026 market estimates show why coat type matters just as much as size.
| Breed Category | Examples | Typical Full Groom* |
| Small Short-Coat | Chihuahua, Dachshund | $30–$60 |
| Small Long/Curly | Shih Tzu, Maltese | $55–$90 |
| Medium Double-Coat | Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie | $65–$110 |
| Large Short-Coat | Labrador, Boxer | $60–$100 |
| Large Double-Coat | Golden Retriever, Husky | $80–$135 |
| Large Curly/Doodle | Poodle, Goldendoodle | $90–$175+ |
| Extra-Large | Great Dane, Newfoundland | $100–$175+ |
*These price ranges are estimates only. Pet parents should check current pricing for their location before booking.
Why Doodle Breeds Consistently Cost More to Groom
Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and Bernedoodles can have dense, curly or wavy coats that require significant brushing, drying, and clipping time. Their coat texture can also vary from pup to pup, so groomers often need to evaluate coat condition individually before providing a final price.
How Often Each Coat Type Needs Professional Grooming (Annual Cost Estimate)
As a general estimate, many dogs benefit from professional grooming every 4–8 weeks. Dogs with low-maintenance coats may need appointments less often, and dogs with long, curly, or fast-growing coats may need them more frequently. Your groomer can help determine what makes sense for your pup.
What to Look for in a Dog Groomer Beyond Price
When comparing dog groomers, consider more than the number on the quote. Look for transparent pricing, calm handling, a clean and organized facility, relevant training or experience, familiarity with your dog’s coat, and clear communication about how your pup behaves during grooming.
Red Flags to Watch for When Booking a Dog Groomer
Watch out for unclear pricing, staff who won’t explain what’s included, poor communication about your dog’s comfort, or repeated reviews describing injuries or highly stressful experiences. A quality groomer should also be able to explain what happens if your pup becomes too stressed to safely finish the appointment.
Questions to Ask a New Groomer Before Your Dog’s First Appointment
- What’s included in the base price for my dog’s size and coat?
- Could coat condition or dematting increase the price?
- How do you handle dogs that become anxious during grooming?
- What experience do you have with my dog’s breed or coat type?
- Will you contact me before performing services that cost extra?
FAQ — Dog Grooming Cost
How much does dog grooming cost on average?
Full grooming commonly falls within a broad range of about $65–$175+, depending on your dog’s size, coat, requested services, and local market.
How often should I get my dog professionally groomed?
It depends on your dog’s coat, lifestyle, and at-home care. Ask your groomer to recommend a routine based on your pup’s individual needs.
Why did my groomer charge more than the quoted price?
Coat condition, matting, or additional services you request can change the final cost. Ask what could trigger an additional fee and whether the groomer will contact you before performing extra services.
Is it cheaper to groom my dog at home?
DIY grooming can reduce appointment costs, but some coats require specialized tools and techniques. Professional help may be the safer choice for complex haircuts, heavy matting, or pups that are difficult to groom.
Are big-box groomers cheaper than independent salons?
Not necessarily. Base prices and add-on fees vary by provider, so compare the full service, the groomer’s experience, and handling practices rather than choosing based on price alone.
