Why Professional Dog Grooming Matters
Regular professional grooming keeps your dog healthy, comfortable, and looking great while preventing skin issues and detecting health problems early
Health & Hygiene
Regular grooming prevents matting, skin infections, and parasites. Groomers can also detect lumps, bumps, or skin issues early.
Comfort & Wellbeing
Well-groomed dogs are more comfortable, especially in hot weather. Regular nail trims prevent pain and mobility issues.
Professional Expertise
Professional groomers have the training, tools, and experience to handle all coat types and can identify health concerns you might miss.
Types of Dog Grooming Services
Full Grooming Package
Complete grooming service
- Bath with quality shampoo
- Haircut/trim (breed-specific)
- Nail trimming
- Ear cleaning
- Brushing and styling
Bath & Brush
Basic cleaning service
- Professional bathing
- Brushing and detangling
- Nail trimming
- Ear cleaning
- More affordable option
Nail Trimming
Essential maintenance
- Professional nail clipping
- Quick and affordable
- Prevents overgrowth
- Can be done standalone
- Typically every 2-4 weeks
De-Shedding Treatment
Reduce shedding
- Specialized brushing techniques
- Removes loose undercoat
- Reduces shedding at home
- Great for heavy shedders
- Prevents matting
Mobile Grooming
Grooming at your home
- Groomer comes to you
- Less stress for anxious dogs
- Convenient for busy owners
- One-on-one attention
- Typically more expensive
Specialty Services
Additional options
- Teeth brushing
- Anal gland expression
- Flea and tick treatment
- Specialty shampoos (medicated, hypoallergenic)
- Paw pad conditioning
How Often Should Dogs Be Groomed?
Long-Haired Breeds
Requires more frequent grooming
Dogs with long or continuously growing coats (Poodles, Shih Tzus, Maltese) typically need:
- Every 4-6 weeks: Full grooming with haircut
- Weekly: Brushing at home between professional grooms
- Prevents matting and keeps coat healthy
Short-Haired Breeds
Less frequent but still important
Short-coated dogs (Labradors, Boxers, Bulldogs) need:
- Every 8-12 weeks: Bath and brush
- Every 2-4 weeks: Nail trimming
- Regular brushing still helps with shedding
Medium-Haired Breeds
Moderate grooming needs
Breeds with medium coats (Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels) typically need:
- Every 6-8 weeks: Full grooming
- Weekly: Brushing to prevent tangles
- More frequent during shedding seasons
All Dogs Need
Essential maintenance
- Regular nail trims: Every 2-4 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Monthly or as needed
- Dental care: Daily brushing recommended
- Bathing: As needed (when dirty or smelly)
- Year-round attention: Don't skip grooming in winter
How to Choose a Dog Groomer
Qualifications & Experience
Look for groomers with:
- Professional grooming certification (optional but preferred)
- Years of experience with various breeds
- Knowledge of breed-specific grooming standards
- Positive reviews and referrals
- Continuing education in grooming techniques
Safety & Facility
- Clean, well-maintained facility
- Proper restraints and safety measures
- Comfortable handling of dogs
- Emergency procedures in place
- Can you observe or tour the facility?
- Ask about their approach to anxious or difficult dogs
Questions to Ask
- How long have you been grooming?
- Have you worked with my dog's breed before?
- How do you handle anxious or fearful dogs?
- What happens if my dog gets injured?
- Do you use sedation? (Red flag if yes, for routine grooming)
- Can I provide my own shampoo/conditioner?
- How long will the appointment take?
Dog Grooming Costs
Small Dogs
Under 25 lbs
$30-$60
per full groom
Basic grooming for small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Toy Poodles.
Medium Dogs
25-50 lbs
$50-$80
per full groom
Grooming for medium breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Border Collies.
Large Dogs
Over 50 lbs
$60-$120+
per full groom
Grooming for large breeds like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Great Danes.
Note: Prices vary by location, breed, coat condition, and additional services. Mobile grooming typically costs 20-30% more than salon grooming.
Popular Grooming Options
PetSmart Grooming
Nationwide chain
- Widely available locations
- Consistent pricing
- Online booking available
- Groomers are certified
- Good for standard grooming needs
Petco Grooming
Nationwide chain
- Convenient locations
- Professional groomers
- Various service packages
- Appointment scheduling
- Reliable service