Frequently Asked Questions
How often should dogs be groomed?
The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) recommends dogs should be bathed at least once every three months. If they spend a lot of time outdoors, they may require more frequent bathing.
Dogs should be clipped and groomed every 4-6 weeks depending on the breed. Long hair breeds often require more frequent grooming to untangle their coats and prevent matting. Your groomer may also help you decide based on your pet’s environment, their skin type, and genetic factors.
Specific practices such as nails, ear cleaning, and brushing vary. For more information, see our techniques page.
How much does grooming cost and how long does it take?
Grooming your pet at home is fairly inexpensive. It will require some basic tools and dog-safe, tear-free shampoo. However, it could be quite time consuming based on your companion’s temperament.
Professional grooming ranges from $30 to $50 for standard grooming, and closer to $100 for additional services. Teeth cleaning, flea treatments, and nail clipping are often extra charges. Grooming can take from around 60-120 minutes depending on the extent of the session. Call your groomer to get more information about their prices.
Can I groom my dog at home?
Some practices can be applied at home with proper training such as brushing and bathing. However, it’s recommended that more difficult practices such as dental care, nail clipping, and ear cleaning are taken care of by a professional. Dogs may become temperamental or lash out in fear while being groomed, making those practices potentially dangerous. Keeping your dog calm and relaxed is a skill in itself. If you are interested in doing these things yourself, get help from a professional first to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.
Check out the ASPCA’s Grooming FAQ for even more help.