As a dog groomer, often the first question I get asked when answering the phone or receiving a message is “How much does dog grooming cost?”.
This particular question is somewhat frustrating. Whilst we have set prices for customers who have their dogs groomed on a regular basis, it will differ for those leaving longer between dog grooming appointments. This is not the only question to ask when trying to find the right dog groomer for you and your dog. How can you compare when you don’t know whats included in the price? Some dog groomers consider nail clipping etc as an extra service, so my advice is to make sure you know what you are getting and paying for.
What do we consider a full Groom?
When we quote the price of our dog grooming service, it includes the following:
Consultation and Healthcheck
Initially to check there are no health problems with your dog before grooming. Also to ascertain any specific requirements for style of cut, behaviour issues, any sensitive areas. This also allows your dog to settle in before grooming.
Full Groom
The exact content depends on breed. Smooth coated dogs will require de-shedding and pad areas may need trimming. Ear leathers will be cleaned and nails clipped. They will then have a deep-cleansing Hydrobath tailored to their coat and skin condition, this will remove any debris and maintain coat. Following that will be a blow dry and fragrance as required.
With double coated breeds that don't require clipping, additionally we brush out loose and dead hair. Examples of these would be Golden Retrievers and Collies. Where coats are styled, clipping is included as well as scissoring where required.
Our Shampoo and conditioners are all natural, cruelty and paraben free.
All other dog grooming services that we offer can be found here.
Other costs to consider with dog grooming
Being a mobile dog grooming service, this is a more personal 1-2-1 experience where your dog is given my full divided attention, rather than going in a crate until the groomer is available. It's more convenient for you as the owner because it is on your doorstep and you can continue with jobs you may need to do while your dog is being groomed. In some instances this will be more cost effective than the time taken to travel to a salon. It also suits dogs who may not like a conventional grooming environment.
More factors to be aware of are the extra cost if your dog's coat is heavily matted, or your dog behaves badly whilst grooming, or your dog is overweight. This is due to the extra time it will take to groom safely, and any matting adds additional wear and tear to equipment.
What am I paying for?
When using a dog grooming service, or any small business, not all your payment goes to your dog groomer. When you are given a price for your dog to be groomed, please remember you are paying for:
Water supply
Scissors
Clippers
Blades
Sharpening
Towels
Washing
Disinfectant
PPE
Correct waste disposal
Business insurance
Public liability insurance
Groomer's wages
Tax
Fuel to get to you
Groomer's van to be kept on the road
Groomer's continued training, seminars, courses
These are just a few things that you may consider when you next ask "How much does dog grooming cost?".
If you would like to discuss your dog and their requirements, please do get in touch.
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