Pet grooming services cover everything from a basic bath-and-trim to full spa treatments — and knowing what to look for (and what to pay) saves you money and keeps your pet comfortable. In 2026, professional pet grooming costs between $30 and $120+ depending on your pet’s size, coat type, and the services included. This guide breaks down every service type, what they cost, and how to find a great groomer near you.
This guide is for informational purposes. Always contact providers directly for current pricing and availability.
What Is Professional Pet Grooming?
Professional pet grooming is a structured cleaning and styling service for your dog, cat, or other pet — performed by trained groomers using proper tools, shampoos, and techniques. It goes well beyond what most owners can do at home. A grooming session typically includes bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and a haircut or style suited to your pet’s breed.
Beyond aesthetics, regular professional grooming plays a real role in your pet’s health. Groomers spot skin conditions, ear infections, lumps, and parasites that owners often miss. According to the American Pet Products Association, US pet owners spent over $11 billion on grooming and boarding services in 2025 — reflecting how central grooming has become to responsible pet care.
Whether you have a fluffy golden retriever, a longhaired Persian cat, or a short-coated beagle, professional pet grooming services are tailored to your pet’s specific coat type and temperament.
Types of Pet Grooming Services
Not all grooming appointments are the same. Understanding what each service includes helps you book the right package and avoid paying for things your pet doesn’t need.
Bath & Brush
The most basic service. Your pet gets a shampoo and conditioner bath, blow-dry, brush-out, and sometimes a spritz of pet-safe fragrance. Great for short-coated dogs between full grooms. Typically costs $30–$60 depending on size.
Full Groom (Bath + Haircut)
The standard full grooming package. Includes everything in the bath & brush, plus a breed-specific or owner-requested haircut, nail trim, and ear cleaning. Most popular option for dogs with longer coats like poodles, shih tzus, and doodles. Costs $50–$120+.
Nail Trim Only
A quick standalone service — usually 10–15 minutes. Essential for pets that hate having their feet touched at home. Many vet offices and pet supply stores offer this for $10–$20.
De-shedding Treatment
Specialized shampoos, conditioners, and high-velocity dryers that remove loose undercoat. Dramatically reduces shedding at home for breeds like huskies, labs, and German shepherds. Typically an add-on at $15–$40 extra.
Teeth Brushing
Groomer brushes your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste. A good habit to maintain dental hygiene between vet cleanings. Usually $10–$20 as an add-on.
Anal Gland Expression
Groomers manually express your dog’s anal glands — an important service for dogs prone to impaction. Most groomers offer this for $10–$15 as an add-on, or it may be included in full grooms.
Cat Grooming Services
Cat grooming services are more specialized — most cats require a calm, experienced groomer who understands feline behavior. Services include lion cuts, de-matting, nail trims, and sanitary trims. Cat grooming typically runs $50–$100+ and requires a groomer who specifically accepts cats.
Exotic & Small Animal Grooming
Rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and birds all have grooming needs too. Rabbit nail trims, guinea pig baths, and parrot feather trims are offered at specialty exotic groomers. Prices vary widely — typically $20–$60 depending on the animal and service.
How Much Does Pet Grooming Cost in 2026?
Grooming prices vary by pet size, coat condition, location, and service type. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what to expect from professional pet grooming services across the US in 2026:
| Service | Small Pet (<20 lbs) | Medium (20–50 lbs) | Large (>50 lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bath & Brush | $30–$45 | $40–$60 | $55–$80 |
| Full Groom (Bath + Cut) | $50–$70 | $65–$90 | $85–$130+ |
| Cat Full Groom | $50–$75 | $70–$100 | $90–$120+ |
| Nail Trim Only | $10–$15 | $12–$18 | $15–$22 |
| De-shedding Treatment | +$15–$25 | +$20–$35 | +$30–$45 |
| Mobile Grooming | $75–$100 | $90–$120 | $110–$150+ |
| Teeth Brushing (add-on) | +$10–$15 | +$10–$20 | +$15–$20 |
Source: HeiBob groomer network survey, Rover data, and Thumbtack national pricing reports, April 2026.
Prices in high-cost cities like San Francisco, New York, or Boston typically run 20–40% higher than the national averages above. If your pet has severely matted fur or hasn’t been groomed in over 6 months, expect a de-matting surcharge of $20–$60+.
To understand the full national picture on grooming costs, check out our detailed breakdown of how much dog grooming costs in 2026.
Dog Grooming vs. Cat Grooming: Key Differences
Dogs and cats have very different needs — and not every groomer is trained to handle both. Here’s what separates the two:
- Stress tolerance: Most dogs accept grooming reasonably well with proper conditioning. Cats are often highly stressed by noise, water, and restraint — making the groomer’s technique critical.
- Coat types: Dogs come in a huge range — from the single-coated Maltese to the double-coated Alaskan Malamute. Cats mostly have single or double coats, but longhaired breeds like Maine Coons can mat severely.
- Bathing: Regular bathing is standard for dogs. Most cats are self-cleaning and only need professional baths when severely soiled, matted, or for medical reasons.
- Frequency: Dogs typically need grooming every 4–8 weeks. Cats with short coats may only need a professional groom 2–4 times a year; longhaired cats may need monthly attention.
- Specialist requirement: If you have a cat, specifically look for groomers who advertise cat grooming experience — not every dog groomer is comfortable or trained with cats.
For small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs, seek out exotic pet groomers who understand the special handling these animals require.
Mobile vs. Salon Grooming: Which Is Right for You?
Mobile grooming brings the groomer directly to your home in a fully equipped van. Salon grooming means dropping your pet off at a brick-and-mortar grooming shop. Both have genuine advantages — the right choice depends on your pet’s temperament and your schedule.
| Factor | Mobile Grooming | Salon Grooming |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $75–$150+ (premium) | $50–$120+ (standard) |
| Stress level | Lower (one-on-one, no other animals) | Higher (other dogs, noise, waiting) |
| Convenience | Excellent — no drop-off/pick-up | Requires travel; wait times vary |
| Best for | Anxious pets, seniors, small dogs | Social dogs, multiple pets, complex cuts |
| Availability | Booking windows can be 2–3 weeks out | More available slots, walk-ins possible |
Mobile grooming has grown significantly — it’s now widely available across most US cities and suburban areas. If your dog is anxious around other animals or gets stressed by car rides to salons, mobile grooming is often worth the price premium.
How to Choose a Pet Groomer
With thousands of groomers across every US city, the quality gap between good and great can be significant. Here’s what to look for:
- Certifications: Look for groomers certified by the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) or International Professional Groomers (IPG). Not all states require licensing, so certifications matter.
- Experience with your breed: Ask specifically if the groomer has worked with your dog’s breed. Breed-specific cuts (like on poodles or schnauzers) require real expertise.
- Reviews and references: Check Google and Yelp for recent reviews. Look specifically for mentions of how the groomer handles anxious or reactive pets.
- Facility cleanliness: A good salon will let you tour the space. Look for clean equipment, proper restraint systems, and separate areas for cats if offered.
- How they handle nervous pets: Ask directly. Good groomers will explain their approach — whether they use a kennel-free setup, how they handle a dog that refuses to stand, and whether they use force-free techniques.
- Transparent pricing: A reputable groomer provides a quote upfront and calls before adding extra charges (like de-matting surcharges).
How Often Should You Groom Your Pet?
Grooming frequency depends heavily on your pet’s coat type, breed, and lifestyle. Here’s a practical reference:
| Pet / Coat Type | Recommended Frequency | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Short-coated dog | Every 8–12 weeks | Beagle, Boxer, Labrador |
| Medium-coated dog | Every 6–8 weeks | Golden Retriever, Border Collie |
| Long/curly-coated dog | Every 4–6 weeks | Poodle, Bichon Frise, Doodles |
| Double-coated dog | Every 6–8 weeks + seasonal de-shed | Husky, Malamute, German Shepherd |
| Short-haired cat | 2–4 times per year | Domestic shorthair, Siamese |
| Long-haired cat | Monthly or every 6–8 weeks | Persian, Maine Coon, Ragdoll |
| Rabbit | Monthly nail trims; brushing as needed | All breeds |
In general, the longer or curlier your pet’s coat, the more frequently they need professional attention. Going too long between grooms can result in painful mats that require shaving — adding cost and stress for your pet. A consistent schedule is always cheaper than emergency mat removal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Grooming Services
What do professional pet grooming services include?
How much do dog grooming services near me typically cost?
Are cat grooming services different from dog grooming?
What are the benefits of mobile pet grooming services?
How do I find a good pet groomer near me?
Can I groom my pet at home instead of using a professional?
What should I do if my pet is scared of the groomer?
More Pet Care Guides
Dog Walking Prices 2026
How much does dog walking cost? National averages, per-city breakdown, and tips for finding a great walker.
Emergency Vet vs Regular Vet
When to rush to an emergency vet vs wait for your regular vet — symptoms guide and cost comparison.
How to Choose a Dog Trainer
What certifications to look for, red flags to avoid, and how to match a trainer to your dog’s needs.
Find Pet Grooming Services Near You
Great grooming starts with finding a provider who understands your pet’s specific coat, temperament, and needs. Whether you’re looking for a trusted neighborhood salon, a mobile groomer who comes to your door, or a specialist for your cat or rabbit, HeiBob’s directory makes it easy to compare providers, read verified reviews, and book with confidence.
Ready to find the perfect groomer? Browse all pet grooming services near you — search by city, service type, and rating to find the right fit for your pet today.
