Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a fluffy Cockapoo, regular grooming is an important part of keeping your dog healthy, comfortable and looking their best.
But how much should you expect to pay?
In 2026, professional dog grooming in the UK typically costs between £30 and £90, depending on your dog’s breed, size, coat condition and the services included.
Here’s everything you need to know before booking.
Dog grooming costs at a glance
| Service | Estimated 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Small dog | £30–£45 |
| Medium dog | £40–£60 |
| Large dog | £55–£80 |
| Giant breed | £70–£100+ |
| Puppy groom | £25–£45 |
| Nail trimming | £10–£20 |
| Teeth cleaning | £20–£50 |
These are average UK prices and may vary depending on your location and the groomer’s experience.
What affects the cost?
Dog size
Larger dogs take longer to groom and require more shampoo and drying time.
For example:
- Small breeds usually cost the least.
- Large and giant breeds are the most expensive.
Breed
Different breeds require different levels of grooming.
Breeds such as:
- Poodles
- Cockapoos
- Cocker Spaniels
- Shih Tzus
- Bichon Frisés
often require more clipping and styling than short-haired breeds.
Coat condition
If your dog’s coat is heavily matted, extra work may be needed.
Some groomers charge an additional fee for removing severe matting because it takes more time and specialist equipment.
Grooming package
Basic packages are cheaper than full grooming sessions.
The more services included, the higher the overall price.
What’s usually included?
A full dog grooming session often includes:
✔ Bath and shampoo
✔ Blow dry
✔ Coat clipping or trimming
✔ Brushing
✔ Nail trimming
✔ Ear cleaning
✔ Eye area tidy
✔ Hygiene trim
Some groomers also include a finishing spray or bandana.
How long does dog grooming take?
Typical appointment times are:
| Dog size | Approximate time |
|---|---|
| Small dog | 1–2 hours |
| Medium dog | 2–3 hours |
| Large dog | 3–4 hours |
Dogs with thick or matted coats may take longer.
How often should dogs be groomed?
The ideal schedule depends on your dog’s breed and coat type.
A general guide is:
| Coat type | Recommended grooming |
|---|---|
| Short-haired breeds | Every 8–12 weeks |
| Medium coats | Every 6–8 weeks |
| Long-haired breeds | Every 4–6 weeks |
| Curly coats (e.g. Poodles, Cockapoos) | Every 4–8 weeks |
Regular brushing at home can help reduce matting between appointments.
Is professional grooming worth it?
For most owners, yes.
Professional grooming can:
- Keep your dog’s coat healthy.
- Reduce shedding.
- Prevent painful matting.
- Detect skin problems early.
- Keep nails at a safe length.
- Improve overall hygiene.
Many dogs also feel much more comfortable after a proper groom.
How to save money
Brush your dog regularly
Regular brushing helps prevent knots and matting, which may reduce grooming time and avoid extra charges.
Book regular appointments
Some groomers offer discounted prices for customers who book routine grooming every few weeks.
Compare local groomers
Before booking, ask:
- What’s included?
- Are nail trimming and ear cleaning included?
- Are there extra charges for matting?
- Is the price based on breed or size?
- Are they fully insured?
Reading genuine customer reviews can also help you choose the right groomer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some dogs cost more to groom?
Dogs with larger bodies, thicker coats or coats that require hand scissoring generally take longer to groom and therefore cost more.
Can I bathe my dog between grooming appointments?
Yes.
Many owners bathe their dogs at home, but regular professional grooming is still recommended for breeds that require clipping.
Do groomers trim nails?
Most full grooming packages include nail trimming, but it’s always worth checking before booking.
At what age should puppies have their first groom?
Many groomers recommend introducing puppies to grooming at around 12–16 weeks, once they’ve had the appropriate vaccinations and your vet confirms it’s suitable.
Final thoughts
Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking great—it’s an important part of their overall health and wellbeing.
With professional grooming starting from around £30, routine appointments can help prevent matting, improve hygiene and keep your pet comfortable all year round.
Before booking, compare local groomers, read genuine customer reviews and make sure you know exactly what’s included in the price.
Find a trusted dog groomer
Looking for a professional dog groomer?
Use The Right Guy to compare trusted local dog grooming salons, read genuine customer reviews and request quotes from experienced groomers near you.
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Author: manager
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