Find Dog Groomers in Australian Capital Territory
Connect with professional dog groomers throughout the Australian Capital Territory and surrounding areas.
Major cities in Australian Capital Territory
Find dog groomers in these popular areas.
Dog Ownership in Australian Capital Territory
Understanding the local pet landscape.
Dog Population
~140,000
The ACT (essentially Canberra) has a high rate of pet ownership – about 75% of households have a pet, and dog ownership specifically is very common in Canberra's suburban households. With around 450,000 people in the ACT, and roughly 60-65% of households owning a dog (estimated from surveys), the number of dogs could be in the range of 100,000 to 140,000 or more.
Popular Breeds
In the ACT, the Cavoodle is basically Canberra's canine VIP. Small-to-medium, low-shed and great with families, Cavoodles are extremely popular in Canberra. Labrador Retrievers are also a top choice – many Canberra families have a Lab as the classic family dog. Border Collies and other smart, active breeds are seen a lot, given the number of parks to play in. The Kelpie – Australia's famous herding dog – is popular too.
Climate & Grooming in Australian Capital Territory
How local weather affects your dog's grooming needs.
Temperature & Seasonal Grooming
Canberra's dry winters and hot summers require year-round coat management, especially in curly or long-haired breeds.
The ACT has an inland climate – hot dry summers and cold winters. Canberra experiences frost and occasional snow flurries in winter (night temps often drop below 0°C), and summers can hit the mid-30s °C with very low humidity. This large swing means dogs in Canberra go through real seasonal coat changes. Winter: Many dogs grow a thick coat or undercoat to cope with chilly mornings. It's not unusual to see breeds like collies or Shelties in Canberra with impressively fluffy winter coats.
Peak Grooming Season
Spring is boom time. As soon as Canberra thaws out around late August/September, dogs start shedding big-time. Groomers handle lots of collies blowing coat, Aussies shedding, and just overall scruffy dogs needing post-winter makeovers. Many clients who stretched grooming during winter come rushing back in spring to sort out overgrown coats and undercoat 'wool.' So September and October are booked solid.
Seasonal Grooming Tips
Summer: Summers are hot, but because it's dry heat, it's a bit easier for dogs to cool off in shade. Still, many opt for a summer clip. The ACT can get very dusty in summer (droughts, etc.), so coats can accumulate dust – regular baths help. Another quirk: Canberra has a notorious grass seed season late spring, with bindi eyes and corkscrew grass seeds in dry grasslands.
Groomer Coverage
Well-served within Canberra city limits with few outlying options.
Most groomers located in Canberra suburbs; limited mobile grooming options. The extreme seasons in Canberra mean grooming needs vary dramatically throughout the year, with spring being extremely busy and winter relatively quiet.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Australian Capital Territory
Places to enjoy with your furry friend.
Parks and Nature Reserves
The ACT is filled with parks. Lake Burley Griffin is the centerpiece of Canberra – and dogs can enjoy most of it on leash. There are designated off-leash exercise areas on the shores of the lake (e.g. near Yarralumla). Walking the lake's bridge-to-bridge circuit with your dog on a nice day is practically a Canberra institution.
Popular Spots
- Lake Burley Griffin
- Mt Ainslie
- Cotter Reserve
Dog-Friendly Cafes & Venues
Canberrans love their weekend café culture, and many cafes accommodate dogs in outdoor seating. In areas like Braddon (trendy inner city) you'll see lots of pups lounging while owners have brunch. Some breweries like BentSpoke Brewing have outdoor patios where dogs can join.
Popular Spots
- Braddon cafes
- BentSpoke Brewing
- Old Bus Depot Markets
Events
A highlight in Canberra is the annual Floriade festival in spring, which runs for a month showcasing flowers. They dedicate one special day as 'Dogs' Day Out' at Floriade, where people can bring their dogs into Commonwealth Park to enjoy the blooms and attend dog-themed activities.
Popular Spots
- Floriade 'Dogs' Day Out'
- Million Paws Walk
- Canberra Pooch Patio
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about dog grooming in Australian Capital Territory.
How much do dog groomers charge in the ACT?
In Canberra and surrounding ACT suburbs, grooming prices typically range from $75–$130 depending on breed and coat type. Poodle mixes or long-haired dogs may cost more, and mobile services tend to charge a premium.
How often should I get my dog groomed in the ACT?
With Canberra's cold winters and hot summers, most dogs should be groomed every 4–8 weeks. Spring is especially busy as many breeds shed their winter coats, while summer grooms help dogs stay cool and clean during hot, dusty conditions.
What breeds need regular grooming in the ACT?
Canberra's popular breeds like Cavoodles, Border Collies, Labradors, and Kelpies benefit from consistent grooming. Doodle mixes should be clipped every 4–6 weeks, while double-coated breeds require brushing and deshedding during seasonal transitions.
Do I need to bring anything to my grooming appointment?
Most groomers recommend bringing proof of vaccinations, especially if it's your first appointment. If your dog has any special needs, bring a note or mention it when booking. It's also helpful to bring your dog's favorite treats or comfort toy to ease anxiety.
Why does grooming take so long?
Grooming involves more than just a haircut. Your dog is bathed, dried, brushed, clipped, and carefully checked for any skin issues. Many groomers also take breaks to help reduce stress for the dog. A high-quality, low-stress groom can take 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the dog's coat and temperament.