a Corgi stands up in a tub.  his coat is wet and his ears are flat

Average Dog Grooming Prices by Breed Size

April 17, 20262 min read

For many pet owners, that "new dog smell" eventually fades into a reality of muddy paws, tangled fur, and the inevitable realization that your canine companion needs a professional spa day. However, once you call to book an appointment, you’ll quickly find that a haircut for a Yorkie doesn't cost quite the same as a blowout for a Great Pyrenees.

Grooming is far more than a luxury—it is a fundamental pillar of canine health, preventing painful skin conditions, ear infections, and overgrown nails. But because every dog is built differently, "one size fits all" pricing simply doesn't exist in the grooming industry.

In this guide, we’ll break down the average grooming costs for 2026 based on breed size, coat type, and labor requirements, helping you budget for your pup’s upkeep without any "sticker shock" at the salon.

Why Does Size Matter?

  • Product Usage: More surface area = more shampoo, conditioner, and special treatments.

  • Time & Labor: Drying a Great Dane takes significantly longer than drying a Yorkie.

  • Safety & Handling: Larger or senior dogs often require two groomers for lifting or stabilization.

a table highlighting differant size dogs, their weight, examples of breeds and range of cost to groom

Beyond Size: The "Coat Complexity" Factor

  • Smooth/Short Coats: (Boxers, Pugs) Usually the least expensive; mostly bath brush and nail trim.

  • Double Coats: (Huskies, Shepherds) Require intensive de-shedding.

  • Curly/Non-Shedding: (Poodles, Doodles) High-maintenance styling and frequent de-matting fees.

Common Add-Ons & Hidden Fees

  • De-matting: Often charged by the minute (e.g., $1.50/min) if the coat is tangled.

  • Specialty Treatments: Nail grinding $5.00), teeth brushing ($7.50), or anal glands ($7.50).

  • Behavioral Fees: For dogs that are anxious or aggressive and require extra time (usually bumped to the higher weight).

Pro-Tips to Save on Grooming

  • The "Maintenance" Brush: Brushing and/or combing at home to avoid de-matting fees.

  • Ask your groomer about: Line brushing, inexpensive equipment to be used at home and other tips to extend the time between grooms.

  • Book appointments regularly or better yet – book your next appointment prior to leaving the salon. Consider adding the Daycare Refresh Package offered to all daycare dogs. A mini groom designed to extend the time between scheduled appointments.

Conclusion

Grooming is an investment in your dog's health (preventing skin infections, sores and mold) and the discomfort and pain of de-matting. If your dog is severely matted, you will not be given the option to de-mat; a short kennel cut will be recommended.

We do not enforce a weight limit, nor do we have a waiting list. Book your appointment today!

thebeastboutique.ca/booking or call 5873175404

Ellen is the owner and managing director of The Beast Boutique Ltd.  She had over 15 years of professional pet care experience.

Ellen Scharf

Ellen is the owner and managing director of The Beast Boutique Ltd. She had over 15 years of professional pet care experience.

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