What Pet Grooming Services Are Available?
Professional pet grooming services include a wide range of care options:
- Basic Services: Bathing, drying, brushing, nail trims, ear cleaning
- Haircut Services: Full body cuts, breed-specific styling, creative grooming
- Specialty Services: De-shedding, teeth cleaning, flea treatment, medicated baths
Most groomers offer packages bundling popular services together for better value.
Looking for pet grooming services but not sure what's available or what your pet needs? You're not alone. The grooming industry offers everything from quick nail trims to full spa treatments, and understanding your options helps you make the best choices for your furry friend.
This comprehensive guide covers every dog grooming service available, what each includes, typical costs, and how to decide which services your pet needs. Whether you have a low-maintenance Lab or a high-maintenance Poodle, we'll help you navigate the world of professional pet grooming.
📋 Pet Grooming Services: Complete Overview
Professional pet groomers offer a wide variety of services. Here's a complete list of what's typically available:
| Service Category | Services Included | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bathing Services | Bath, blow dry, brush out | $30-65 |
| Haircut Services | Full body cuts, breed styles, trims | $50-120+ |
| Nail Care | Nail trim, nail grinding | $12-25 |
| Ear & Dental | Ear cleaning, teeth brushing | $8-20 each |
| De-Shedding | Specialized de-shed treatment | $40-85 |
| Specialty Services | Medicated baths, flea treatment, creative coloring | $15-50+ |
🛁 Bathing & Drying Services
Bathing is the foundation of most pet grooming services. Professional baths go far beyond what you can achieve at home.
Standard Bath
Cost: $25-50 | Time: 30-60 minutes
What's included:
- ✓ Warm water bath with quality shampoo
- ✓ Conditioner application (if needed)
- ✓ Professional-grade blow drying
- ✓ Thorough brush out
Premium/Spa Bath
Cost: $40-75 | Time: 45-90 minutes
Everything in standard bath PLUS:
- ✓ Upgraded specialty shampoo (oatmeal, whitening, etc.)
- ✓ Deep conditioning treatment
- ✓ Massage during bath
- ✓ Paw balm & nose balm
- ✓ Cologne/perfume finishing spray
Why Professional Bathing Matters: Professional groomers use high-velocity dryers that reach the undercoat, preventing moisture from being trapped against the skin (which can cause hot spots and infections). They also properly dilute shampoos and use products suited to your dog's coat type.
Professional bathing uses quality products and proper techniques for a thorough clean
✂️ Haircut & Styling Services
Haircut services range from simple maintenance trims to elaborate breed-specific styling. Not all dogs need haircuts - breeds like Labs, Beagles, and Huskies have coats that shouldn't be cut.
Face, Feet & Sanitary Trim (FFF)
Cost: $15-25 | Between-groom maintenance
A quick trim of the face, paw pads, and sanitary areas without a full groom. Great for maintenance between full appointments.
Full Body Haircut
Cost: $50-90 | Uniform length all over
An all-over clip at one length. Popular options include puppy cuts, teddy bear cuts, and summer cuts. Includes bath, dry, and finishing work.
Breed-Specific Styling
Cost: $60-120+ | Traditional breed cuts
Cuts specific to breed standards - Poodle clips, Schnauzer cuts, Bichon styles, Cocker Spaniel trims, etc. Requires skilled groomers with breed knowledge.
Hand Scissoring
Cost: $80-150+ | Premium finishing
Precise scissor work for show-quality or detailed styling. Takes longer but produces a more polished, natural look. Often used for Poodles, Bichons, and show dogs.
Breeds That Need Regular Haircuts:
Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, Yorkies, Maltese, Bichons, Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, Scottish Terriers
Breeds That Should NOT Be Cut:
Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labs, Corgis, Collies, Australian Shepherds (double-coated breeds)
💅 Nail Care Services
Regular nail maintenance is essential for your pet's health and comfort. Overgrown nails can cause pain, affect gait, and lead to joint problems.
Nail Trim (Clipping)
Cost: $12-18 | Time: 10-15 minutes
- ✓ Quick and effective
- ✓ No appointment needed (walk-in)
- ✓ Included in most grooming packages
- ✓ May leave sharp edges
Nail Grinding (Dremel)
Cost: $15-25 | Time: 15-20 minutes
- ✓ Smooth, rounded finish
- ✓ Less likely to scratch you/floors
- ✓ Can get nails shorter safely
- ✓ Some dogs dislike the vibration
How often? Most dogs need nail trims every 3-4 weeks. If you hear clicking on hard floors, the nails are too long. Dogs who walk on concrete regularly may need less frequent trims.
👂 Ear Cleaning & Teeth Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Cost: $8-15 (often included in packages)
What's included:
- ✓ Cleaning solution applied to ear canal
- ✓ Gentle wiping of outer ear
- ✓ Hair removal from ear canal (if needed)
- ✓ Groomer checks for signs of infection
Especially important for floppy-eared breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Beagles.
Teeth Brushing
Cost: $10-15 (often included in premium packages)
What's included:
- ✓ Pet-safe toothpaste applied
- ✓ Brushing of accessible tooth surfaces
- ✓ Freshens breath
- ✓ Helps reduce tartar buildup
Note: Groomer teeth brushing is maintenance only. Dental cleanings require a veterinarian.
Skilled groomers provide detailed finishing work for a polished look
✨ Specialty & Add-On Services
Beyond basic grooming, many groomers offer specialty pet grooming services for specific needs:
| Specialty Service | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| De-Shedding Treatment | $40-85 | Heavy shedders (Huskies, Shepherds, Golden Retrievers) |
| Flea & Tick Bath | $15-30 | Dogs with flea/tick issues |
| Medicated Bath | $15-35 | Dogs with skin conditions (with vet approval) |
| Oatmeal/Sensitive Shampoo | $5-15 | Dry, itchy, or sensitive skin |
| De-Matting | $10-20 per 15 min | Tangled or matted coats |
| Anal Gland Expression | $10-20 (often included) | Most dogs (routine maintenance) |
| Creative Coloring | $20-60+ | Fun colors (pet-safe dyes only) |
| Pawdicure (Nail Polish) | $10-20 | Pet parents who want a fun look |
📦 Common Pet Grooming Packages
Most groomers bundle pet grooming services into packages for better value. Here are the standard offerings you'll find:
Bath & Brush Package
$30-65Best for: Short-haired breeds, dogs that don't need haircuts
Full Groom Package
$50-100+Best for: Breeds needing haircuts (Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, Yorkies)
De-Shed Package
$40-85Best for: Heavy shedders (Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Corgis)
🤔 How to Choose the Right Pet Grooming Services
The right grooming services for dogs depend on your pet's breed, coat type, and lifestyle:
Short-Haired Breeds (Labs, Beagles, Pugs, Boxers)
Recommended: Bath & Brush every 6-8 weeks
No haircuts needed. Focus on bathing, nail care, and seasonal de-shedding if heavy shedder.
Long/Curly Coats (Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, Yorkies)
Recommended: Full Groom every 4-6 weeks
Regular haircuts essential to prevent matting. Brush at home between appointments.
Double-Coated Breeds (Huskies, Shepherds, Golden Retrievers)
Recommended: De-Shed Treatment every 6-10 weeks
Never shave these breeds! De-shedding keeps undercoat manageable and reduces home shedding.
Wire-Haired Breeds (Schnauzers, Terriers, Wirehaired Pointers)
Recommended: Full Groom with hand-stripping every 8-12 weeks
Breed-specific styling maintains coat texture. Ask for a groomer experienced with wire coats.
Find Professional Grooming Services Near You
Ready to book pet grooming services? Search local groomers, compare prices, read reviews, and find the perfect match for your pet.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What services are included in basic dog grooming?▼
Basic dog grooming (Bath & Brush) typically includes: bath with quality shampoo, blow dry, thorough brush out, nail trim, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression. Many groomers also include teeth brushing and a bandana or bow. Cost ranges from $30-65 depending on dog size.
How often should I use pet grooming services?▼
Most dogs benefit from professional grooming every 4-8 weeks. Dogs with long, curly, or fast-growing coats (Poodles, Doodles) need grooming every 4-6 weeks. Short-haired breeds can go 6-12 weeks between appointments. Nail trims should happen every 3-4 weeks regardless of full grooming schedule.
Do pet grooming services include nail trimming?▼
Yes, nail trimming is included in virtually all grooming packages at no extra charge. You can also get standalone nail trims as a walk-in service at most groomers for $12-20. Nail grinding (Dremel) may cost slightly more but provides a smoother finish.
What's the difference between grooming at chains vs. independent groomers?▼
Chain stores (PetSmart, Petco) offer standardized services at consistent prices with convenient locations. Independent groomers often provide more personalized care, the same groomer every visit, and may specialize in specific breeds. Mobile groomers offer convenience by coming to your home. Prices are similar, with chains slightly cheaper and mobile groomers costing 20-40% more.
Do groomers offer services for cats?▼
Yes, many groomers offer cat grooming including bathing, de-shedding, nail trimming, and lion cuts for long-haired cats. Cat grooming typically costs $55-100+ and requires a groomer experienced with felines. Not all groomers work with cats, so always call ahead to confirm availability.
What should I tip for pet grooming services?▼
Standard tipping for pet grooming services is 15-20% of the total cost. For example, tip $8-12 on a $60 service. Tip 20-25% for exceptional work, difficult dogs, or extra accommodations. Cash tips are preferred by groomers. Read our complete tipping guide →
📝 The Bottom Line on Pet Grooming Services
Professional pet grooming services are essential for keeping your furry friend healthy, comfortable, and looking great. From basic baths to specialty treatments, understanding your options helps you make the best choices for your pet's needs and your budget.
Most dogs benefit from professional grooming every 4-8 weeks, with bath-only services for short-haired breeds and full grooms for those needing haircuts. Don't forget regular nail trims between appointments, and consider de-shedding treatments for heavy shedders.
When choosing a groomer, look for experience with your breed, read reviews, and don't be afraid to ask questions about their services and techniques. A great groomer becomes a trusted partner in keeping your pet healthy!
Ready to find professional grooming services? Search pet groomers in your area to compare services, read reviews, and book your next appointment.
