How much to charge for dog grooming: a 2026 UK price guide
Pricing is one of the hardest parts of running a grooming business. Charge too little and you're working flat out for not much; charge too much for your area and the diary goes quiet. This guide walks through typical UK grooming prices in 2026 and, more importantly, how to build a price that works for you.
Want a quick starting point first? Our free dog grooming price calculator gives you a suggested range in seconds.
Typical UK dog grooming prices in 2026
These are broad guide figures for a full groom (bath, dry, clip and tidy). Real prices vary a lot by region — London and the South East tend to run 20–30% higher, while some areas sit below.
| Dog size | Example breeds | Typical full groom |
|---|---|---|
| Toy | Chihuahua, Yorkie | £28–£40 |
| Small | Shih Tzu, Cavalier | £35–£48 |
| Medium | Cockapoo, Spaniel | £42–£58 |
| Large | Labrador, Retriever | £50–£75 |
| Giant | Newfoundland, St Bernard | £70–£110+ |
Add-ons and shorter services usually sit alongside the full groom: a bath and brush might be 50–65% of the full price, a nail trim around £8–£15, and de-shedding treatments a little extra on top of a bath.
What actually goes into your price
A price isn't just "what everyone else charges." Build it up from these factors:
- Time. A curly or matted coat can take twice as long as a smooth one. Price by the effort, not just the breed.
- Coat and condition. Double coats, wool coats and matted coats all take more work — it's normal and fair to charge more.
- Products and overheads. Shampoo, kit wear, insurance, rent or van costs, heating, water. These add up quietly.
- Your experience. Skill, speed and a calm hand with nervous dogs are worth paying for. Don't undersell them.
Should you charge more for matted coats?
Yes. A matted coat is uncomfortable for the dog, slower to work through and harder on your equipment. Most groomers add a matting fee or move to an hourly rate above a certain point. Be upfront about it — a line on your consent form explaining that heavily matted coats may need to be clipped short (and charged accordingly) saves awkward conversations later.
How to raise your prices without losing clients
Most groomers undercharge, then feel stuck. Putting prices up is normal — here's how to do it gently:
- Give notice. Tell clients a few weeks ahead. A short, friendly message is all it takes.
- Round increases sensibly. A £2–£5 rise once a year rarely loses a good client.
- Lead with value. Remind clients what's included — the care, the time, the little extras.
- Know your numbers. Use our earnings calculator to see what a small price change does to your year.
The bottom line
There's no single correct price for grooming a dog. Start from the guide figures above, adjust for your time, coat, condition and area, and don't be afraid to charge what your work is worth. Review your prices at least once a year — your costs certainly do.