Grooming and coat
How much does it cost to groom a dog?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Grooming costs vary widely by size, coat type, and location, but a basic wash and brush for a small dog often falls in a modest range, while a full groom with a haircut for a large, curly coated breed costs considerably more, sometimes two to three times as much. Matted coats usually add an extra fee.
What drives the price
Size is the most obvious factor, since a larger dog takes more shampoo, more drying time, and more scissoring, but coat type matters just as much: a Poodle or Bichon's full haircut takes considerably longer than a bath and brush for a Labrador, which is reflected in the price difference between a basic wash and a full groom.
Extra charges to expect
Heavily matted coats often carry an additional fee, since dematting takes significant extra time and sometimes requires a shorter clip than originally planned. Add on services like teeth brushing, deshedding treatments, or a specific styled cut for show ready breeds also typically cost more than the standard package.
Balancing cost against frequency
A curly coated dog groomed every four to six weeks, with consistent brushing at home in between, usually costs less per visit over the year than one groomed less often that regularly needs matting removed, since a well maintained coat takes less time and skill to work through than a neglected one.
Key takeaways
- Size and coat type are the biggest factors in grooming cost, with curly coated breeds typically costing more than smooth coated ones.
- Heavily matted coats usually carry an extra dematting fee and can mean a shorter cut than planned.
- Regular grooming with home brushing in between often costs less overall than letting a coat become matted between visits.