How Much Does Dog Grooming Cost?
Professional dog grooming costs about $104 per visit on average in the US, with most bookings between $79 and $136, according to Thumbtack. Size and coat drive the price: a basic groom runs about $30–$50 for small dogs, $50–$80 for medium, $80–$120 for large and $120–$200 for giant breeds, and a full-service groom costs about $20–$50 more.
Grooming prices vary more than most pet services, because a 10-pound short-haired dog and a matted 90-pound doodle are completely different jobs. Here's what to expect.
Average dog grooming price
Thumbtack's data on its groomers puts the national average at $104 per session, with a typical range of $79 to $136. Prices are higher in big cities and high-cost areas.
Dog grooming prices by size
| Dog size | Basic groom | Full / comprehensive groom |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 20 lb) | $30–$50 | $50–$80 |
| Medium (20–50 lb) | $50–$80 | $80–$110 |
| Large (50–80 lb) | $80–$120 | $110–$150 |
| Giant (over 80 lb) | $120–$200 | $150–$250 |
Source: Whole Dog Journal (2024). A basic groom typically means bath and brush-out, nail trim, ear cleaning and a simple trim. A comprehensive groom adds a detailed haircut and extras such as teeth brushing, anal gland expression or specialty treatments.
Common add-ons
| Service | Typical extra cost |
|---|---|
| Dematting | $10–$100, depending on the coat |
| Flea bath or treatment | $10–$45 |
| Medicated or specialty skin treatment | $15–$45 |
| Nail trim on its own | about $15 |
| De-shedding treatment | priced by size and coat |
Breed and coat matter most
- Poodles, doodles, Shih Tzus, Afghan Hounds and similar coats: about $50 to $200 per session, and they often need appointments monthly (Whole Dog Journal).
- Short, smooth coats: often $40 to $50 for a basic groom.
- Heavy shedders (Huskies, Malamutes, German Shepherds): de-shedding can get costly during seasonal coat blows.
- Matted coats: dematting takes time and may mean a short shave-down, which groomers often charge extra for.
Other things that affect the price
- Temperament: dogs that are anxious or difficult to handle take longer.
- Salon vs. mobile: mobile grooming costs more because of vehicle costs and one-on-one service. See mobile grooming costs.
- Frequency: regular clients often pay less, because coats stay in better shape (Thumbtack notes some groomers discount frequent visits).
- Chain vs. independent: chain salons have published price menus; independents vary more.
Don't forget the tip
Etiquette guidance is 15% to 20% of the bill, so about $7.50 to $15 on a $50 to $75 groom. A groomer quoted by NerdWallet says national chains generally don't expect tips. See should you tip your dog groomer.
How to save on grooming
- Brush at home between appointments to prevent mats (and dematting fees). See how to groom your dog at home.
- Choose a practical haircut that grows out gracefully, so you can space appointments.
- Do baths and nail trims yourself and book full grooms less often.
- Ask about packages or memberships for regular clients.
- Keep a regular schedule; long gaps lead to matting and higher prices.
Find dog groomers near you and compare prices and reviews.
Sources
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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.