Dog grooming is an important part of maintaining a dog’s health and hygiene. Regular grooming helps prevent skin issues, reduces shedding, and keeps a dog’s coat clean and comfortable.
While some owners groom their dogs at home, many choose professional grooming services to ensure proper care, especially for breeds with thick or curly coats.
Understanding the average dog grooming cost in the U.S. can help pet owners budget for this recurring expense and determine whether professional grooming fits within their pet care costs.
Average Dog Grooming Cost
The price of dog grooming services depends largely on the size of the dog, coat type, and the services included.
On average, professional dog grooming in the United States costs between:
$40 and $100 per grooming session
Smaller dogs usually cost less, while large or high-maintenance breeds may require more expensive grooming.
Dog Grooming Cost by Dog Size
Dog Size | Average Grooming Cost
Small dogs | $40 – $60
Medium dogs | $60 – $80
Large dogs | $80 – $120
Large dogs require more time, shampoo, and effort, which increases grooming prices.
Breeds with thick or curly coats may also require additional brushing and trimming.
What Is Included in Dog Grooming?
Professional dog grooming usually includes several services.
Typical grooming packages include:
- bath and shampoo
- haircut or coat trimming
- nail trimming
- ear cleaning
- brushing and de-shedding
Some grooming salons also offer additional services such as teeth brushing or flea treatments.
How Often Should Dogs Be Groomed?
The grooming frequency depends on the dog’s breed and coat type.
Typical grooming schedules include:
Dog Type | Recommended Grooming Frequency
Short hair breeds | Every 2–3 months
Medium coats | Every 6–8 weeks
Long or curly coats | Every 4–6 weeks
Dogs with coats that grow continuously often require more frequent grooming.
Grooming Costs Per Year
Because grooming is a recurring expense, the yearly cost can add up.
For example, if grooming costs $70 per session and the dog requires grooming every two months, the annual cost would be:
$420 per year
Dogs requiring monthly grooming could cost $800 or more per year.
These grooming expenses are often included in the overall cost of owning a dog per month in the U.S.
Professional Grooming vs Grooming at Home
Some pet owners choose to groom their dogs themselves to reduce costs.
Home grooming expenses may include:
- grooming clippers
- dog shampoo
- brushes
- nail clippers
Initial equipment costs may range from $50 to $200, but can reduce long-term grooming expenses.
However, professional groomers often provide better results for complex haircuts and high-maintenance breeds.
Factors That Affect Grooming Prices
Several factors influence dog grooming prices.
Dog Breed
Certain breeds require specialized grooming techniques that increase the price.
Coat Condition
Dogs with tangled or matted fur require more time and effort.
Location
Grooming services tend to be more expensive in large cities compared to smaller towns.
Additional Services
Extras such as flea treatments or teeth cleaning may increase the total cost.
How Grooming Fits Into Pet Ownership Costs
Grooming is just one part of the overall cost of caring for a dog.
Other common pet expenses include food, veterinary care, toys, and insurance.
These expenses are often included when calculating the average cost of owning a dog per month in the U.S.
Some owners also consider veterinary care costs, which you can explore in our guide to the average vet cost per visit in the U.S.
FAQ
How much does dog grooming cost in the U.S.?
Dog grooming typically costs between $40 and $100 per session, depending on the dog’s size and coat type.
Why is dog grooming expensive?
Grooming requires specialized equipment, trained professionals, and time, especially for dogs with thick or curly coats.
How often should a dog be groomed?
Many dogs require grooming every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on their coat type.
Are large dogs more expensive to groom?
Yes. Large dogs require more time and grooming products, which increases the cost.
Can dog grooming be done at home?
Yes. Some owners groom their dogs at home using grooming kits, although professional grooming may still be necessary for certain breeds.
Conclusion
Dog grooming is an important part of responsible pet care and helps keep dogs healthy and comfortable.
In the United States, professional grooming typically costs $40 to $100 per session, depending on the dog’s size, breed, and coat type.
Because grooming is a recurring expense, pet owners should include it in their long-term pet care budget.
