What Does Dog Grooming Include?
A standard full dog groom usually includes an assessment of skin and coat, brushing and dematting, a bath and blow-dry, a haircut or trim, nail trimming, and ear cleaning; many groomers also brush teeth, and some full packages include anal gland expression. A "bath" or "bath and tidy" package skips the full haircut. Extras like dematting, flea treatment and de-shedding usually cost more.
"Grooming" means different things at different salons, so it's worth knowing the usual packages before you book.
What's in each grooming package
| Service | Bath / bath & brush | Full groom |
|---|---|---|
| Skin, coat, ear and nail check | Yes | Yes |
| Brushing and light dematting | Yes | Yes |
| Shampoo and conditioner | Yes | Yes |
| Blow-dry | Yes | Yes |
| Nail trim | Usually | Yes |
| Ear cleaning | Usually | Yes |
| Haircut / full body trim | No (maybe face, feet and sanitary tidy) | Yes |
| Teeth brushing | Sometimes | Often |
| Anal gland expression | Sometimes, on request | Some packages |
Thumbtack describes a standard groom as a bath, brushing, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning and teeth brushing, with some full packages also including anal gland expression. Whole Dog Journal describes a comprehensive groom as adding a detailed haircut, anal gland expression, teeth brushing and specialized treatments.
Common add-ons
- Dematting ($10–$100 extra)
- De-shedding treatment for heavy shedders
- Flea bath or treatment ($10–$45)
- Medicated shampoo for skin conditions ($15–$45)
- Nail grinding for smoother edges
- Hand stripping for wire-coated breeds; see what is hand stripping
- Extras like blueberry facials or nail polish
Prices from Whole Dog Journal (2024).
What happens during the appointment
PetSmart describes its grooming process in five steps: a hands-on assessment, brushing and clipping (with nails and ears), a bath, drying with unheated dryers, and the haircut and finishing touches. Dogs wait in individual kennels with water between steps. See how long dog grooming takes.
What to tell the groomer
- The haircut you want (bring a photo) and how short
- Any lumps, sore spots, allergies or health conditions
- Behavior issues (nervous with dryers, sensitive feet)
- Whether you want anal glands expressed; many vets and groomers recommend leaving healthy glands alone. See do groomers express anal glands.
What to bring
Proof of rabies vaccination is commonly required. PetSmart, for example, requires a paper record of rabies vaccination.
Find dog groomers near you.
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.