Dog grooming prices in the UK vary considerably depending on where you live, your dog's breed and coat condition, and the type of service you choose. Understanding what's typical helps you budget accurately and avoid being overcharged — or undervaluing a genuinely skilled groomer.
Average Grooming Prices by Dog Size
The most common pricing structure is based on dog size. Here are typical UK ranges for a full groom (bath, blow-dry, brush-out, trim, nail clip, ear clean):
| Dog Size | Typical Price Range | |---|---| | Small (e.g. Shih Tzu, Bichon, Westie) | £35 – £55 | | Medium (e.g. Cocker Spaniel, Springer, Schnauzer) | £45 – £70 | | Large (e.g. Labrador, Golden Retriever, Border Collie) | £55 – £85 | | Giant (e.g. Newfoundland, St Bernard, Great Dane) | £80 – £130+ |
Prices in London and the South East typically sit at the higher end. In the North of England, Scotland and Wales, you'll often find prices 10–25% lower for equivalent services.
What's Usually Included in a Full Groom
A standard full groom from a UK groomer typically includes:
- Bath with professional shampoo (sometimes conditioner)
- Blow-dry — hand-dried or cage-dried depending on the salon
- Brush and de-shed
- Scissor or clipper finish appropriate to the breed
- Nail clip
- Ear clean (not plucking unless requested)
- Spritz or finishing spray
Always confirm what's included before booking. Some groomers list a lower base price but charge separately for nails, ears, or de-shedding treatments.
Additional Services and Their Typical Costs
Many groomers offer add-on services beyond a standard full groom:
| Service | Typical Additional Cost | |---|---| | De-matting (light) | £5 – £15 | | De-matting (heavy) | £15 – £40+ | | De-shedding treatment | £10 – £25 | | Teeth brushing | £5 – £10 | | Flea treatment bath | £5 – £15 | | Anal gland expression | £5 – £10 | | Paw balm treatment | £5 – £8 | | Breed-specific styling (show trim) | £15 – £40 extra |
If your dog's coat is heavily matted, expect a significant surcharge — and in some cases a responsible groomer will recommend clipping the coat short rather than attempting to de-mat, to avoid causing pain.
Bath and Brush vs Full Groom: What's the Difference?
A bath and brush (sometimes called a wash and blow-dry) typically costs 60–75% of a full groom price. It includes:
- Bath and condition
- Blow-dry and brush-out
- Nail clip
It does not include a trim or clip. This service suits dogs with easy-maintenance coats, or as a maintenance appointment between full grooms.
Mobile Grooming: Expect to Pay More
Mobile groomers — who come to your home in a van equipped as a grooming salon — typically charge a 20–40% premium over salon prices. This reflects the convenience factor, the travel costs, and the one-to-one nature of the service (your dog is the only one being groomed at that time).
For many dogs, particularly anxious ones, the premium is well worth it.
What Affects the Price for Your Specific Dog
Beyond size, several factors can push your price up:
- Coat condition — heavily matted coats require significantly more time
- Temperament — a difficult or anxious dog requires more patience and handling skill
- Double coats — Huskies, German Shepherds and similar breeds produce far more hair
- Frequency — dogs groomed regularly are quicker and easier to groom, keeping costs lower
- Location — city-centre salons have higher overheads than rural or home-based groomers
How Often Do You Need to Book?
The answer depends on your dog's coat type:
- Short-coated breeds (Beagle, Dalmatian, Boxer): every 8–12 weeks
- Medium coats (Labrador, Spaniel): every 6–8 weeks
- Long coats requiring trimming (Shih Tzu, Maltese, Bichon): every 6–8 weeks
- Curly and Doodle coats: every 4–6 weeks to prevent severe matting
- Double coats (Husky, Golden Retriever): every 8–12 weeks, more frequently during shedding season
Booking regularly keeps costs more predictable and avoids de-matting surcharges.
Use our directory to find and compare groomers in your area. Many listings show pricing information so you can compare before you book.