How Much Does Mobile Dog Grooming Cost?
Mobile dog grooming costs more than grooming at a salon, where the US average is about $104 per visit ($79 to $136 typical). Groomers say the premium covers the van, its upkeep and permits, and the fact that a mobile groomer works with one dog at a time at your door. Price depends on your dog's size and coat, the services and your area, so get quotes from several local mobile groomers.
Mobile grooming brings a fully equipped grooming van to your driveway. You pay extra for the convenience and the one-on-one attention, and prices are set locally, so there's no single national price.
How mobile grooming prices compare
| Salon grooming | Mobile grooming | |
|---|---|---|
| Average price | about $104 per visit (typical $79–$136, Thumbtack) | Higher than salon prices (Thumbtack, NerdWallet) |
| Dogs handled at once | Several | One |
| Time your dog spends | Often hours, including waiting time in a kennel | Only the grooming itself |
| Travel | You drive both ways | None |
Groomer Erin Myers told NerdWallet that mobile grooming is "a little bit more expensive" than salon grooming, because of vehicle maintenance, permits, equipment and handling one dog at a time. Thumbtack also notes that mobile and pick-up/drop-off services cost more than salon visits. Catster reports the same pattern for cats: mobile groomers often cost more than storefront locations.
What drives the price of a mobile groom
- Dog size and coat: salon price tiers range from about $30–$50 for a small dog's basic groom to $150–$250 for a giant breed's full groom, and mobile prices follow the same logic at a higher level.
- Services: full haircut, bath only, nail trim, de-shedding, dematting.
- Coat condition: mats add time and fees.
- Your location: some mobile groomers add a travel or trip fee outside their main area, and prices are higher in big cities.
- Number of dogs: some groomers discount a second dog at the same address because there's no extra travel.
How to compare mobile grooming quotes
Ask each groomer:
- What's included in the base price (bath, haircut, nails, ears, teeth, anal glands)?
- Is there a travel fee or minimum?
- Is there a discount for multiple dogs or a regular schedule?
- What's the charge for matting or difficult handling?
- Do they need water or electricity from your home, or is the van self-contained?
- Are they licensed where required and insured?
How much should you tip a mobile groomer?
The usual 15% to 20% applies. NerdWallet suggests factoring in a mobile groomer's extra costs when deciding. See tipping your groomer.
Is it worth paying more?
For anxious, elderly or reactive dogs, or for busy owners, the higher price often buys a calmer experience and saves hours of driving and waiting. See is mobile dog grooming worth it.
Find groomers near you, including mobile services.
Sources
Find pet groomers near you
Whether your dog needs a bath, a haircut, nail trimming or a full grooming package, compare local pet groomers and mobile dog grooming services by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.
Pet Groomers by state
Tap your state to see listings by city.
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.