Why Some Dogs Cost More to Groom Than Others?

Find out why grooming costs vary for different dogs. Learn how coat type, size, and style impact the price and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Jul 10, 2025 - 14:24
 3
Why Some Dogs Cost More to Groom Than Others?

Dogs are our best friends. We love to play with them, cuddle them, and watch them run around the yard. But when it comes to grooming, not every dog is the same. Some dogs need more care than others. Because of this, grooming prices can be very different. Lets talk about why some dogs cost more to groom than others.

Coat type makes a big difference

The type of fur your dog has changes how hard it is to groom them. Dogs with long or thick fur take more time to wash, dry, and trim. A Golden Retriever or a Poodle has a heavy coat that needs extra brushing and careful cutting. A short-haired dog like a Beagle is faster and easier to handle.

Long hair also gets tangled and matted more often. Mats can hurt your dog and take a lot of time to fix. Groomers work slowly to make sure they do not pull or hurt the dog. This careful work adds to the price.

Size of the dog matters too

A big dog takes more shampoo, more water, and more time. Groomers also need to lift or move the dog, which can be tiring and needs extra care. A tiny Chihuahua will be much faster to wash and dry than a big St. Bernard. Because of this, bigger dogs usually cost more at the grooming shop.

Behavior and comfort level

Some dogs love baths and brushing. Others feel scared and do not want to stay still. If a dog is nervous, the groomer must go slower and calm the dog down many times during the visit. This makes the whole job take longer. Some dogs even try to bite or escape, which makes the job harder and sometimes risky.

Groomers must keep your dog safe and happy. That means they give extra time and attention, which can raise the cost.

Style and special requests

Some dog owners want special haircuts or fancy styles for their dogs. These styles take longer and need more skill. A show cut on a Poodle takes a lot of time and detail work. Simple trims cost less than full styling.

When you ask for special bows, colored fur, or nail painting, it also adds to the price. Groomers use special tools and products for these extra touches. If you ever ask yourself how much to groom a dog, you will see that these extras can change the final bill by a lot.

Health and age of the dog

Older dogs or dogs with health problems need more gentle handling. They may not be able to stand for a long time or may feel pain during grooming. Some need breaks to rest or need special shampoos for skin problems.

Puppies also need extra patience since they are not used to grooming. Groomers make sure to give them a good first experience so they dont get scared in the future.

Location and shop services

Grooming prices change depending on where you live. Big cities usually cost more because rent and costs are higher. Shops in small towns might be cheaper.

Some grooming shops offer extra services like teeth cleaning, special shampoos, or spa treatments. These services add to the final price.

Why good grooming is worth it

A clean and neat dog feels happy and healthy. Grooming stops mats, keeps skin healthy, and helps find any skin lumps or ticks early. Even if it costs more, regular grooming can save you money at the vet later.

Good groomers love dogs and take time to make them feel safe. When your dog looks great and feels good, it makes you and your pup happy.

Think before you choose a groomer

Before picking a groomer, ask questions. Ask how long it takes, what services they include, and how they handle nervous dogs. A good groomer will always share this information.

You can also check reviews from other dog owners in your area. Find a groomer who treats your dog like family.

Conclusion

Grooming is not the same for every dog. Coat type, size, behavior, style, and health all change the price. It may feel costly sometimes, but it helps your dog stay happy and healthy. Next time you visit the groomer, you will know why some dogs cost more to groom than others. Taking good care of your dog is always worth it.