Quick Answer
A full dog groom typically includes: bath with shampoo & conditioner, blow dry, full body haircut, nail trimming, ear cleaning, sanitary trim, paw pad trim, and a finishing touch. Cost ranges from $50-100+ depending on size and breed.
Walking into a grooming salon can feel overwhelming with all the service options. "Full groom," "bath and tidy," "de-shed treatment" - what do these actually include? Understanding what you're paying for helps you choose the right service and know whether you're getting good value.
🛀 Standard Full Groom Services
Here's what's included in a full dog grooming service at most professional groomers:
1. Pre-Groom Brush Out
Thorough brushing to remove loose hair, tangles, and mats before the bath. This step determines whether the groomer can achieve your desired style or if matting requires a shorter cut.
2. Bath with Shampoo & Conditioner
A thorough bath using professional-grade shampoo matched to your dog's coat and skin type. Most groomers lather twice - once to clean, once to treat. Conditioner helps with detangling and coat health.
3. Blow Dry & Fluff
Professional blow drying using velocity or stand dryers. This is crucial for achieving the finished look and checking for any skin issues hidden under the coat.
4. Full Body Haircut / Trim
Clipping or scissoring to your preferred style. This can be a breed-specific cut, a puppy cut, or a custom length. The groomer shapes the head, body, legs, and tail.
5. Nail Trimming
Nails clipped to an appropriate length, being careful to avoid the quick. Some groomers file or Dremel nails smooth as part of the standard service.
6. Ear Cleaning
Outer ear cleaning with appropriate solution. For breeds prone to ear hair (Poodles, Schnauzers), this may include ear hair plucking.
7. Sanitary Trim
Careful trimming around the rear end and belly to keep these areas clean and hygienic.
8. Paw Pad Trim & Finishing
Paw pad hair trimming for traction and cleanliness, plus a bandana, bow, or finishing spray.
⚖️ Bath vs. Full Groom: What's the Difference?
| Service | Bath & Brush | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|
| Bath & Shampoo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Blow Dry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brushing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Nail Trim | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ear Cleaning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Full Body Haircut | ✗ | ✓ |
| Face & Head Styling | ✗ | ✓ |
| Sanitary Trim | Sometimes | ✓ |
| Average Cost (Medium Dog) | $40-55 | $65-85 |
| Time | 45-90 min | 1.5-3 hours |
➕ Common Add-On Services & Costs
| Add-On Service | Typical Cost | Who Needs It |
|---|---|---|
| De-matting | $15-40+ | Dogs with tangled or matted coats |
| De-shedding Treatment | $20-40 | Heavy shedders (Huskies, Golden Retrievers) |
| Teeth Brushing | $8-15 | All dogs (recommended) |
| Flea & Tick Treatment | $15-25 | Dogs with flea/tick issues |
| Nail Grinding (Dremel) | $5-10 extra | Dogs with rough/sharp nails after clipping |
| Medicated Shampoo | $10-20 | Dogs with skin conditions or allergies |
| Anal Gland Expression | $10-20 | Some dogs need regular expression |
🛍️ At-Home Grooming Products
Professional-grade shampoos, brushes, and tools for maintaining your dog's coat between grooms.
Browse Products →🐶 What to Expect by Breed Type
Curly/Wool Coats (Poodle, Doodle, Bichon)
Full groom every 4-6 weeks is essential. Includes detailed scissor or clipper work for breed-specific styles. These breeds benefit most from regular full grooms to prevent matting.
Double Coats (Husky, Golden, Shepherd)
Bath and de-shed service is usually more appropriate than a full groom. These breeds should NOT be shaved. Focus on undercoat removal and conditioning.
Short Coats (Lab, Beagle, Boxer)
Bath and brush service is usually sufficient. No haircut needed. May benefit from a de-shedding treatment during heavy shedding seasons.
📝 The Full Groom Process: Step by Step
- 1Check-in - Groomer assesses coat, discusses your preferences
- 2Pre-groom brush - Remove tangles, check for mats
- 3Bath - Double shampoo and condition
- 4Blow dry - Thorough drying with professional dryers
- 5Haircut - Body, legs, head, and tail shaping
- 6Detail work - Face, paws, sanitary trim, ear cleaning
- 7Nail trim - Clip or grind nails
- 8Finishing - Final brush, spritz, bandana or bow
Find Full-Service Groomers Near You
Browse local groomers, compare services and pricing, and book your dog's next full groom.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a standard full dog groom?▼
A standard full groom includes bath with shampoo and conditioner, blow dry, full body haircut, nail trimming, ear cleaning, sanitary trim, paw pad trimming, and a finishing spray or bandana.
What's the difference between a bath and a full groom?▼
A bath service includes shampooing, drying, brushing, nail trim, and ear cleaning. A full groom adds a haircut or trim to your specifications, costing 40-60% more and taking 1-2 hours longer.
What grooming services cost extra?▼
Common extras include de-matting ($15-40+), de-shedding ($20-40), teeth brushing ($8-15), flea treatment ($15-25), specialty shampoos ($10-20), and nail grinding ($5-10 extra).
Does grooming include nail trimming?▼
Yes, nail trimming is included in both bath and full groom services at virtually all professional groomers. Nail grinding (Dremel) may cost $5-10 extra.
How often does my dog need a full groom?▼
Curly/wool coats need it every 4-6 weeks. Double-coated breeds need de-shedding every 6-8 weeks. Short-coated breeds can go 8-12 weeks and may only need bath services.
Want to compare grooming services and prices? Find groomers near you and see exactly what each salon offers.
