How Much Does Dog Grooming Cost?
Dog grooming costs $30-$90 on average in 2026, depending on the service and your dog's size:
- Bath & Brush: $30-$50 (no haircut)
- Full Groom with Haircut: $50-$90+
- Mobile Grooming: $60-$120
- Nail Trim Only: $10-$25
Prices vary by location, dog size, and coat condition. Large and giant breeds cost 30-50% more.
Dog Grooming Prices by Service Type
Grooming services range from a quick nail trim to a full spa-style session. Here are the national average prices for the most common services in 2026:
| Service | Price Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Bath & Brush | $30-$50 | Shampoo, blow dry, brush out, nail trim, ear cleaning |
| Full Groom (with haircut) | $50-$90+ | Everything in bath + full body trim or breed-specific cut |
| De-Shedding Treatment | $40-$75 | Specialized shampoo, high-velocity dryer, undercoat removal |
| Nail Trim | $10-$25 | Clip or Dremel grind of all nails |
| Nail Grind (Dremel) | $15-$30 | Smooth filing with rotary tool for a rounded finish |
| Teeth Brushing | $5-$15 | Enzymatic toothpaste application (add-on) |
| Flea & Tick Treatment | $15-$35 | Medicated shampoo bath (add-on) |
| Anal Gland Expression | $10-$25 | External expression (often included in full groom) |
| Puppy's First Groom | $25-$45 | Gentle introduction, bath, light trim, nail clip |
Most groomers include nail trimming and ear cleaning with bath or full groom packages. Learn more about dog nail trimming costs.
Dog Grooming Cost by Size
Your dog's size is the single biggest factor in grooming cost. Larger dogs require more time, water, shampoo, and physical effort from the groomer.
| Dog Size | Weight | Bath & Brush | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 20 lbs | $25-$40 | $40-$60 |
| Medium | 20-50 lbs | $35-$50 | $50-$75 |
| Large | 50-80 lbs | $45-$65 | $65-$100 |
| Extra-Large / Giant | 80+ lbs | $55-$80 | $80-$120+ |
Example breeds by size: Small — Yorkie, Shih Tzu, Maltese. Medium — Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Border Collie. Large — Golden Retriever, Labrador, German Shepherd. Giant — Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland.
Grooming Cost by Coat Type
Coat type determines how long a groom takes and what tools are needed. Curly and long-coated dogs require significantly more work than smooth-coated breeds.
| Coat Type | Price Premium | Example Breeds | Typical Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth / Short | Base price | Beagle, Boxer, Dalmatian | Every 8-12 weeks |
| Double Coat | +10-20% | Husky, Golden Retriever, GSD | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Long / Silky | +15-30% | Shih Tzu, Maltese, Yorkie | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Curly / Wool | +20-40% | Poodle, Bichon, Doodles | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Wire / Rough | +15-25% | Schnauzer, Terriers, Wirehaired | Every 6-8 weeks |
Top 20 Breeds: Grooming Price Breakdown
Here's what you can expect to pay for a full groom (bath + haircut) for the 20 most popular dog breeds in the US:
| Breed | Full Groom | Frequency | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | $45-$65 | 8-12 weeks | $240-$420 |
| French Bulldog | $35-$50 | 8-12 weeks | $180-$325 |
| Golden Retriever | $55-$80 | 6-8 weeks | $420-$690 |
| German Shepherd | $50-$75 | 6-8 weeks | $385-$650 |
| Poodle (Standard) | $65-$100 | 4-6 weeks | $650-$1,300 |
| Goldendoodle | $70-$110 | 4-6 weeks | $700-$1,430 |
| Bulldog (English) | $40-$55 | 8-12 weeks | $210-$360 |
| Rottweiler | $45-$65 | 8-12 weeks | $240-$420 |
| Beagle | $35-$50 | 8-12 weeks | $180-$325 |
| Dachshund | $35-$50 | 8-10 weeks | $210-$360 |
| German Shorthaired Pointer | $40-$55 | 8-12 weeks | $210-$360 |
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | $45-$65 | 6-8 weeks | $345-$560 |
| Siberian Husky | $55-$75 | 6-8 weeks | $420-$650 |
| Cavalier King Charles | $45-$65 | 6-8 weeks | $345-$560 |
| Doberman Pinscher | $40-$55 | 8-12 weeks | $210-$360 |
| Miniature Schnauzer | $50-$70 | 6-8 weeks | $385-$605 |
| Shih Tzu | $50-$75 | 4-6 weeks | $500-$975 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | $45-$70 | 4-6 weeks | $450-$910 |
| Cocker Spaniel | $55-$80 | 6-8 weeks | $420-$690 |
| Bernedoodle | $75-$120 | 4-6 weeks | $750-$1,560 |
Annual cost estimates are based on the recommended grooming frequency for each breed. Actual costs vary by location. See our Poodle grooming guide for breed-specific styling options.
Dog Grooming Prices by City (2026)
Grooming costs vary significantly by location. Here are average full-groom prices (medium-sized dog) in 15 major US cities:
| City | Avg Full Groom | vs National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $75-$120 | +35% |
| San Francisco, CA | $80-$130 | +40% |
| Los Angeles, CA | $65-$100 | +20% |
| Chicago, IL | $55-$85 | +5% |
| Seattle, WA | $65-$95 | +15% |
| Boston, MA | $65-$100 | +20% |
| Denver, CO | $55-$85 | +5% |
| Miami, FL | $55-$85 | +5% |
| Austin, TX | $50-$80 | Average |
| Nashville, TN | $50-$75 | -5% |
| Phoenix, AZ | $45-$75 | -5% |
| Atlanta, GA | $50-$80 | Average |
| Dallas, TX | $50-$80 | Average |
| Minneapolis, MN | $50-$80 | Average |
| Charlotte, NC | $45-$70 | -10% |
Search groomers in your city to compare local prices and read reviews.
Mobile Grooming vs Salon: Cost Comparison
Mobile groomers come to your home in a fully equipped van. The convenience costs more, but many pet owners find it worth the premium — especially for anxious or senior dogs.
| Factor | Salon Grooming | Mobile Grooming |
|---|---|---|
| Bath & Brush | $30-$50 | $45-$70 |
| Full Groom | $50-$90 | $70-$120 |
| Price Premium | — | +20-30% |
| Convenience | You drive to them | They come to you |
| Wait Time | Drop-off for hours | Done in 1-2 hours |
| Stress Level | Other dogs nearby | One-on-one, less stress |
| Best For | Budget-conscious, social dogs | Anxious, senior, or large dogs |
Find mobile groomers near you to compare availability and pricing.
7 Factors That Affect Dog Grooming Cost
1. Dog Size & Weight
The biggest factor. Large dogs cost 30-50% more than small dogs for the same service.
2. Coat Type & Condition
Curly, long, and double coats take longer to groom. Matted coats incur $15-$50+ surcharges.
3. Breed-Specific Styling
Breed cuts (like Poodle continental clips) require specialized skills and take longer than simple trims.
4. Location & Cost of Living
NYC and SF charge 30-40% above the national average, while smaller cities are below average.
5. Groomer Experience & Certifications
NDGAA-certified or Fear Free-certified groomers may charge a premium for their expertise.
6. Dog Temperament
Aggressive, extremely anxious, or uncooperative dogs may require extra handling, adding to the cost.
7. Add-On Services
Teeth brushing ($5-15), de-shedding ($20-40), flea treatment ($15-35), and creative grooming can add up.
How to Save Money on Dog Grooming
Brush regularly at home
Brushing 2-3 times per week prevents mats, which can add $15-$50+ to your grooming bill. This is the single most effective way to reduce grooming costs.
Book on a consistent schedule
Sticking to a regular 4-8 week schedule prevents coat issues that lead to higher costs. Many groomers offer 10-15% discounts for recurring appointments.
Ask about package deals
Many groomers offer prepaid packages (e.g., buy 5 grooms, get 1 free) or monthly membership plans that reduce per-visit costs by 15-20%.
Bathe at home between grooms
A self-service dog wash ($10-20) or home bath between professional appointments can stretch grooming intervals.
Compare local groomers
Prices can vary 30-50% between groomers in the same area. Compare groomers near you to find the best value.
Try grooming schools
Grooming schools offer discounted services (40-60% off) performed by students under instructor supervision. Great for budget-friendly maintenance grooms.
Annual Dog Grooming Cost Estimate
Your total annual grooming spend depends on breed, frequency, and service level. Here's a quick estimate:
$180-$420
Low-Maintenance Breeds
Short-coated dogs groomed every 8-12 weeks (Beagle, Lab, Bulldog)
$400-$800
Medium-Maintenance Breeds
Double-coated or medium-hair breeds groomed every 6-8 weeks (Golden, Corgi, Husky)
$650-$1,500+
High-Maintenance Breeds
Curly / long-coated breeds groomed every 4-6 weeks (Poodle, Doodle, Shih Tzu)
Chain Store vs Independent Groomer Costs
Wondering whether to go with a national chain or a local independent groomer? Here's how they compare:
| Option | Full Groom (Med Dog) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| PetSmart | $45-$75 | Convenience, consistent pricing, online booking |
| Petco | $50-$80 | Variety of packages, Vital Care members get discounts |
| Independent Salon | $50-$90 | Personalized care, breed expertise, quieter environment |
| Mobile Groomer | $70-$120 | At-home convenience, 1-on-1 attention, less stress |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does dog grooming cost on average?▼
Dog grooming costs $30-$90 on average in 2026. A basic bath and brush runs $30-$50, while a full groom with haircut costs $50-$90+. Prices depend on your dog's size, coat type, and the services included.
How much does it cost to groom a large dog?▼
Grooming a large dog (50-80 lbs) costs $60-$100 for a full groom. Extra-large breeds over 80 lbs can cost $80-$120+. Large dogs require more time, shampoo, and effort, which drives up the price.
Is mobile dog grooming more expensive?▼
Yes, mobile grooming typically costs 20-30% more than salon grooming. A mobile groom averages $60-$120 compared to $40-$90 at a salon. The premium covers travel, fuel, equipment, and the convenience of at-home service.
How often should I get my dog professionally groomed?▼
Most dogs need professional grooming every 4-8 weeks. Short-coated breeds can go 8-12 weeks, while long-coated or curly breeds like Poodles and Doodles need grooming every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting.
Why is dog grooming so expensive?▼
Grooming costs reflect the groomer's training, time (1-3+ hours per dog), professional equipment, quality products, insurance, and overhead. Groomers handle sharp tools, manage temperaments, and maintain sanitation standards — it's skilled labor.
How much should I tip my dog groomer?▼
Tip your groomer 15-20% of the service cost. For a $60 groom, that's $9-$12. Tip 20-25% for exceptional service, difficult dogs, or last-minute appointments. Cash tips are preferred by most groomers.
How can I save money on dog grooming?▼
Brush your dog 2-3 times per week (prevents matting surcharges), book on a consistent schedule, ask about package deals or memberships, bathe at home between grooms, and compare prices from multiple local groomers.
What is included in a full dog groom?▼
A full groom typically includes bath with shampoo and conditioner, blow dry, brush out, full body haircut or trim, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and sometimes anal gland expression and teeth brushing.
Related Grooming Guides
PetSmart Grooming Cost Guide
Full 2026 price list, package breakdowns, and savings tips for PetSmart grooming.
Petco Grooming Cost Guide
Complete Petco grooming price breakdown by service tier and dog size.
How Much to Tip Your Groomer
Tipping etiquette, how much to tip, and when to tip more for extra effort.
Mobile vs Salon Grooming
Detailed comparison of mobile and salon grooming — cost, convenience, and quality.
Find Affordable Groomers Near You
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