Booking a grooming appointment for the first time — or switching to a new salon — is a lot easier when you know exactly what you're paying for. Dog grooming services included in a standard package vary widely between providers, and the difference between a basic bath and a full groom can mean $30 to $80 depending on your dog's breed and coat type. Here's a clear breakdown of what to expect.
The Core Services in a Full Groom
Most professional dog groomers offer a "full groom" as their baseline package. This typically covers everything your dog needs to look and feel clean from nose to tail. A full groom generally includes:
- Bath and blow dry – Using shampoo appropriate for your dog's coat and skin type, followed by a professional-grade dryer to reduce shedding and prevent matting
- Brush out – Removes loose fur, detangles knots, and preps the coat for cutting
- Haircut or breed trim – Styled to match breed standards (like a Schnauzer's skirt and beard) or a custom length you request
- Nail trimming – Clipped to a safe length; some groomers include a file to smooth sharp edges
- Ear cleaning – Debris and wax removed from the outer ear canal to reduce the risk of infection
- Anal gland expression – Not always included by default; some salons offer it as an add-on for $10–$20
- Teeth brushing – Sometimes included in premium packages, but more commonly an add-on
For short-haired breeds like Beagles or Boxers, a full groom might run $45–$65. For double-coated or long-haired breeds like Golden Retrievers or Poodles, expect $70–$130 or more.
Bath-Only vs. Full Groom: What's the Difference?
A bath-only service skips the haircut entirely. It's a good option if your dog's coat is well-maintained and just needs a refresh between full grooms. You'll still get the bath, blow dry, brush out, and usually nail trimming and ear cleaning.
Bath-only appointments are shorter (typically 1–2 hours vs. 2–4 for a full groom) and cost noticeably less — often $30–$60 depending on size. If your dog is between haircuts but getting a bit funky, this is the right call.
Add-On Services Worth Knowing About
Beyond the standard package, most groomers offer a menu of extras. These are usually priced individually and can add up quickly if you're not watching. Common add-ons include:
- De-shedding treatment – Specialized shampoos and conditioners that significantly reduce shedding; usually $15–$30 extra
- Flea and tick shampoo – Worth asking about if your dog has been in wooded or grassy areas
- Teeth brushing – Typically $10–$15 added to any service
- Blueberry facial – A gentle scrub for the face to remove tear stains and odor; popular for small breeds
- Paw pad treatment – Moisturizing balm applied to cracked or dry pads
- Nail grinding – A smoother finish than clipping alone; usually $5–$10 extra
How Groomers Price Their Services
Pricing isn't arbitrary — there are a few concrete factors that drive the final number:
Breed and coat type are the biggest variables. A Doodle with a thick, curly coat takes significantly more time and skill than a Chihuahua. Matted coats often trigger a dematting fee ($10–$50) because of the extra labor involved — or the groomer may recommend shaving down entirely.
Dog size matters too. Most salons tier pricing into small (under 20 lbs), medium (20–50 lbs), and large (50+ lbs) categories.
Temperament is a factor some groomers are upfront about. Dogs that require extra handling, muzzling, or repeated breaks may incur an extra charge — usually disclosed in advance.
Frequency can lower your costs. Dogs groomed every 6–8 weeks are easier to maintain than those coming in twice a year with overgrown, tangled coats.
Finding the Right Groomer for Your Dog
Once you understand what dog grooming services are included in various packages, the next step is comparing actual providers in your area. Prices, experience levels, and specialty services (like handling anxious dogs or working with specific breeds) vary more than most people expect. Mercoly lets you compare and find trusted dog grooming providers in one place, so you're not digging through reviews on five different platforms to make a decision.
Ask any groomer you're considering a few key questions: Do they cage dry or hand dry? How do they handle a dog that gets anxious? What's their policy if your dog nips or snaps? A good groomer will answer confidently and without hesitation.
Start comparing local dog groomers today and book the right one for your dog's needs.