Quick Answer:
Golden Retriever grooming costs $65-$110 every 6-8 weeks. Their long double coat sheds heavily and requires regular brushing (3-4 times weekly). Professional grooming includes bath, de-shedding, and feathering trim. Never shave a Golden - their coat protects them.
Golden Retriever Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional Golden Retriever grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Golden Retriever | 55-75 lbs | $65-$85 | $85-$110 |
Annual grooming costs: $520-$880 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
Golden Retriever Coat Type & Care
Golden Retrievers have a dense, water-repellent double coat with a thick undercoat and longer outer coat. They have distinctive "feathering" on chest, legs, and tail. The coat can be wavy or straight.
| Coat Type | Double/Long |
| Shedding | Heavy (year-round with seasonal increases) |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Brushing | 3-4 times weekly (daily during shedding) |
| Grooming Difficulty | Medium |
Popular Golden Retriever Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for Golden Retrievers:
Natural Trim
Best for: Most Golden owners
Light trimming of feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail to neaten appearance while maintaining natural look.
Maintenance: Medium - regular brushing required
De-Shedding Treatment
Best for: Managing heavy shedding
Thorough brush-out with de-shedding tools plus bath with de-shedding shampoo and conditioner.
Maintenance: Reduces shedding for several weeks
Summer Trim
Best for: Hot weather (but not shaving)
Slightly shorter overall trim, thinning of undercoat, shortened feathering. Never shaved.
Maintenance: Medium - keeps coat manageable
Show Trim
Best for: Show dogs, breed standard
Precise trimming to enhance natural lines. Feet trimmed tight, feathering shaped, ears blended.
Maintenance: High - daily brushing and regular touch-ups
Golden Retriever Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your Golden Retriever looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Brushing: 3-4 times weekly, daily during shedding
- Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly (floppy ears prone to infection)
Puppy Grooming
Golden puppies have softer coats that mature around 12-18 months. Start brushing early to establish routine. First professional groom after vaccinations.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older Goldens may have skin issues, lumps to work around, or mobility problems. Gentle handling important. Watch for changes in coat condition.
Find a Golden Retriever-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Golden Retrievers and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon Golden Retriever Grooming Problems
Heavy Shedding
Goldens shed year-round with heavy seasonal shedding. Their long coat means more visible fur.
Prevention: Regular brushing with undercoat rake and slicker brush. Professional de-shedding treatments. Quality diet.
Matting in Feathers
Longer hair on chest, legs, and behind ears mats easily, especially when wet.
Prevention: Pay extra attention to feathered areas when brushing. Comb through after swimming.
Hot Spots
Goldens are prone to hot spots, especially in warm weather or when coat stays damp.
Prevention: Keep coat clean and dry. Watch for excessive licking or scratching. Address promptly.
Ear Infections
Floppy ears and love of water make Goldens prone to ear problems.
Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning. Dry ears after swimming. Watch for head shaking.
At-Home Golden Retriever Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Golden Retriever's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Slicker brush for general brushing
- Undercoat rake for de-shedding
- Metal comb for feathering
- Thinning shears for touch-ups
- Ear cleaner
- Nail clippers
Grooming Tips
- Brush in layers to reach the undercoat, not just surface
- Pay extra attention to feathered areas that mat easily
- Never shave a Golden - their coat insulates them in heat and cold
- Dry thoroughly after swimming to prevent hot spots
- Check and clean ears weekly
Finding a Golden Retriever-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Golden Retriever:
- Look for experience with double-coated, feathered breeds
- Ensure they won't shave the coat
- Ask about their de-shedding process
- Check that they're comfortable with large dogs
- Ask about drying methods for thick coats
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to groom a Golden Retriever?▼
Golden Retriever grooming costs $65-$110 per session. Basic grooming runs $65-$85, while full grooming with feathering trim costs $85-$110.
How often should a Golden Retriever be groomed?▼
Golden Retrievers need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Regular brushing at home (3-4 times weekly) is essential between appointments.
Should you cut a Golden Retriever's hair?▼
Light trimming of feathering is fine, but never shave a Golden. Their double coat regulates temperature. Trimming keeps them neat without removing protection.
How do I reduce my Golden Retriever's shedding?▼
Regular brushing with proper tools, professional de-shedding treatments, quality diet, and consistent grooming schedule helps manage shedding.
Why is my Golden Retriever shedding so much?▼
Goldens have heavy double coats that shed year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. This is normal - regular grooming helps manage it.
Can I groom my Golden Retriever at home?▼
You can do regular brushing and maintenance at home. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks ensures thorough de-shedding and proper feathering care.
The Bottom Line
Golden Retriever grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Golden Retriever looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with Golden Retrievers, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Golden Retriever will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
Find a Golden Retriever Groomer Near You
Search for professional groomers experienced with Golden Retrievers.
Search Groomers