Dog Grooming Costs in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

Dog Grooming Costs in Australia

Dog grooming is an essential part of pet care, but it comes at a cost. In Australia, grooming prices can vary widely depending on your dog’s size, breed, coat condition, and even where you live. A simple bath might only set you back a few dozen dollars, while a full-service groom for a large, hairy breed can run well over a hundred. This guide breaks down the typical price ranges for small, medium, and large dogs – from basic baths to deluxe treatments – and explains the factors that influence how much you pay. We’ll also look at examples for popular breeds like Cavoodles, Labradors, and Poodles, estimate annual grooming expenses, and discuss how timing or seasonality might affect costs. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to budget for keeping your canine looking their best.

What Affects Dog Grooming Prices?

Several key factors determine the price of a dog grooming session. Understanding these will help you make sense of quotes from different groomers:

Dog Size

It likely comes as no surprise that larger dogs cost more to groom than smaller dogs. Bigger dogs take longer to wash, dry, and clip, and they simply have more fur surface area to deal with. Groomers typically set their rates in tiers by size. For example, a basic wash for a small dog might cost around $30–$40, whereas the same service for a large dog could be $50–$60. Full haircuts (“full grooms”) also scale up with size – one price guide estimates about $65–$80 for small breeds vs. $100–$120 for large breeds for a full clip and style. The bigger the dog, the more work (and shampoo) required, hence the higher price.

Coat Length and Condition

Beyond overall size, the type of coat your dog has plays a major role in grooming cost. Dogs with long, thick, or curly coats typically require more time for brushing out tangles, drying, and trimming. A short-haired Jack Russell may be washed and dried quickly, whereas a full-coated Border Collie or an oodle (poodle mix) with a woolly coat needs much more attention. If a dog’s coat is matted or very dirty, groomers often charge extra to safely work through the knots. De-matting is labor-intensive and can add around $15 on top of the regular grooming fee. In fact, heavy de-shedding or undercoat removal for breeds like Huskies or German Shepherds may be priced separately – around $100–$130 for a large dog in one example. Keeping your dog’s coat in good condition between appointments (with regular brushing at home) can prevent these additional charges.

If your dog shows up crawling with fleas or ticks, expect an extra fee for flea treatment as well. Groomers often apply a flea rinse or special shampoo to protect other clients and their facility. This flea treatment add-on might cost roughly $10–$20 in Australia. Some groomers will even refuse service if a pet has a severe flea infestation, so it’s wise to treat pests beforehand. Overall, the easier the groomer can work through your dog’s coat, the closer the cost will stay to the base price of the service.

Breed and Grooming Style

Breed type affects grooming prices because different breeds have different coat traits and styling needs. Small, smooth-coated breeds (like a Chihuahua or Pug) are usually on the low end of grooming costs, since they may only need a quick bath and nail trim. In contrast, breeds with elaborate grooming styles or very high-maintenance coats fall at the higher end. For example, a Poodle or Bichon Frise requires precise clipping and often a specific haircut shape – this expertise and extra time mean a higher fee than a simple all-over trim. Likewise, double-coated dogs (Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, etc.) that need thorough de-shedding will cost more than single-coated dogs of similar size.

Some breeds even have speciality cuts that groomers charge a premium for. Owners who want a breed-standard style cut (say, a classic Poodle continental clip or a breed-specific hand-scissored finish) can expect to pay more than the average full groom price. Estimates suggest these detailed style cuts can run about $90–$110 for small breeds, $100–$120 for medium, and up to $150 for large breeds. In short, if your dog’s breed (or mix) is known for requiring lots of grooming, be prepared for higher costs. A Cavoodle with a curly coat needs far more work than a smooth-haired Kelpie, and grooming prices will reflect that.

Frequency and Regularity

How often you groom your dog can also influence what you pay per session. Some salons reward regular clients with loyalty discounts or package deals – for example, a discounted rate if you book a standing appointment every 4–6 weeks. Frequent grooming can actually make each session easier (since there’s less overgrowth or matting to tackle), so maintaining a schedule might keep costs down in the long run. On the flip side, if you only groom your dog once or twice a year, those sessions may be longer (and pricier) due to the amount of fur and tangles built up over time. It’s worth asking your groomer if they offer any maintenance plans or multi-session bundles for regulars. Additionally, if you have more than one dog, some groomers will give a discount for grooming them in the same visit, since it’s more efficient for them.

Location and Service Type

Where you live in Australia can impact grooming fees. Big-city groomers often have higher prices than those in small towns, reflecting higher rents and wages in metropolitan areas. For instance, full groom prices in Sydney or Melbourne can easily be $80–$150, whereas in a smaller city you might find $60–$100 is more common. A recent survey of quotes showed typical grooming costs around $75–$150 in Sydney, $80–$140 in Melbourne, versus $80–$100 in Adelaide or $60–$120 in Brisbane. It’s a notable spread tied largely to location and local competition.

The type of service provider matters too. Mobile groomers, who come to your home in a fully equipped van, often charge a bit more for the convenience. They have travel time, fuel, and vehicle upkeep to account for in their pricing. Mobile dog grooming in Australia typically ranges from about $55 up to $150 depending on the dog’s size and the package chosen. Salon-based grooming may be slightly cheaper than mobile, but if you live far from a salon, a mobile groomer might save you time and driving. In some rural areas, mobile or house-call groomers are the only option and might have higher fees due to longer travel distances. Always consider that location and service type go hand in hand: a mobile groomer in a busy city might be the priciest of all, while a home-based groomer in a small town could be quite affordable.

Timing and Seasonality

While grooming prices don’t usually fluctuate like airline tickets, when you book can still have some effect. Many pet owners rush to the groomer at certain times of year – for example, in spring when dogs shed their winter coats, or ahead of the summer holidays and Christmas. During these peak seasons, groomers’ appointment slots fill up quickly. Some groomers may implement a surcharge for last-minute or urgent bookings (for instance, an extra fee if you need an immediate appointment due to an unexpected situation). Others might have slightly higher rates on weekends or after-hours to compensate for overtime. Generally, the base prices remain the same year-round, but you’re less likely to find promotional discounts in the busy season, and you might need to book further in advance to secure a spot.

Seasonal effects can also tie back to your dog’s condition – a dog that spends winter growing a long coat might need an intensive spring groom (costing more than the tidy-ups you did in cooler months). Similarly, if you let grooming lapse during colder months, the first warm-weather appointment could be a big job. The key is to plan ahead around peak times. Booking your dog’s groom well before Christmas or as spring begins can ensure you avoid any premium or inconvenience. In summary, while seasonality and timing don’t usually change the list price, they can affect availability and occasionally incur small surcharges (especially for off-hour requests). Always ask your groomer if things like weekend or holiday appointments cost extra.

Your Dog’s Behaviour or Special Needs

Finally, groomers may adjust their price if a dog requires extra handling for safety or comfort. If your pet is aggressive, extremely anxious, or impossible to keep still, the groom might take significantly longer and could even require a second handler. Some grooming salons will charge an additional fee for “difficult” dogs because of the extra time and care involved. It’s not a judgment on your pup – it’s just that a job that takes two people an hour will cost more than one that takes a single groomer 30 minutes. If you suspect your dog might be a handful (for example, if they’ve nipped at groomers in the past or hate the blow-dryer), mention it when booking and be prepared for a slight uptick in cost.

Dogs with special needs – say, seniors with arthritis, or those with health conditions – might also need more gentle handling and breaks during grooming. While most groomers accommodate these needs without an explicit surcharge, the session might run longer, which indirectly is reflected in the labor cost. Transparency is key: discuss any behavioural or health issues with your groomer so they can allocate proper time. Many are understanding, but it’s fair that they charge a bit more for extra effort in challenging cases. The same goes if you request a groomer to administer something like an ear treatment or medicated bath beyond the usual routine; there might be a small extra fee for the added service or time.

Typical Price Ranges by Dog Size and Service

Now let’s talk numbers. How much can you expect to pay for dog grooming in Australia? While prices vary by provider, here are some ballpark ranges for common services, broken down by dog size:

Basic Bath & Dry

For a simple wash and dry (with a brush-out and maybe nail trim), you’ll typically pay about $30–$40 for a small dog, $45–$50 for a medium dog, and $50–$60 for a large dog. This kind of service is often chosen by short-haired breeds or as an in-between maintenance for dogs who get regular full grooms.

Full Groom (Wash + Haircut)

A full-service groom including bathing, drying, haircut, ear cleaning, and nail clipping will cost more. Small breeds usually range around $65–$85; medium breeds around $85–$100; and large breeds about $100–$125 on average. Remember, these figures assume a fairly standard coat condition – if your fluffy Groodle is an overgrown fluff-ball, expect the higher end or additional fees. Many Aussie pet owners report typical full-groom bills in the $80–$120 range for most average-sized dogs.

De-shedding or Heavy Coat Work

If you have a breed that doesn’t get haircuts but blows coat seasonally (think Huskies, Malamutes, German Shepherds), groomers offer de-shedding treatments. These involve thorough brushing, sometimes special de-shed shampoos, and blow-drying to remove loose undercoat. Costs might be around $45–$75 for small-to-medium dogs and $100+ for large, heavy-coated dogs. For example, getting a big Labrador Retriever or Samoyed fully de-shedded can run over $100 due to the time it takes.

Extras and Add-Ons

Additional services will add a smaller amount to the bill. Most groomers charge about $10 for a nail trim if it’s not included in the package. Teeth brushing is often an extra $10–$15. Anal gland expression (if requested) or ear cleaning might be around $10 as well, though these are sometimes included in full grooms. Flea treatments, as mentioned, typically add roughly $10–$20 for the special shampoo or rinse. A de-matting surcharge (for a dog with tangles) could be on the order of $15 extra, though severe cases might incur higher fees or require the groomer to simply clip the coat short for the dog’s comfort. If you opt for fancy upgrades like a special coat conditioner or paw balm treatment, those are usually modest add-ons (often $5–$10 each. Individually these extras don’t break the bank, but they can add up if you request several in one session.

To put it all in perspective, most dog owners can expect to spend somewhere between $40 and $150 per grooming session in Australia. A short-haired Terrier needing a quick bath will be at the low end, while a giant Bernese Mountain Dog needing a full groom with all the trimmings will hit the high end. For the majority of common breeds and mixed breeds, a full grooming service usually falls in the mid-range of these figures. It’s always wise to ask your groomer for a quote based on your dog’s specific size and coat – many have printed price charts or will quote ranges over the phone. Whether you’re in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, or any other state, researching local options is your best bet for accurate pricing.

Grooming Cost Examples for Popular Breeds

Let’s take a look at a few common dog breeds in Australia and what their grooming might cost. Keep in mind these are general examples – individual prices will vary, but these give a sense of relative costs:

Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Poodle)

Cavoodles are hugely popular family dogs, and they typically have a curly, low-shedding coat that needs regular grooming. Being a small-to-medium sized breed, a Cavoodle’s full groom (wash, haircut, nails, ears) will often cost around $70 to $90 at many salons. Some higher-end groomers or city locations might charge up to $100+ for a Cavoodle, especially if the coat is kept longer or styled in a teddy-bear cut. Cavoodles usually require grooming about every 6–8 weeks to prevent matting. So if you own one, budget for roughly $80 per session on average. Some owners opt for a shorter “summer cut” which can extend the time between grooms a bit. But generally, this breed’s Poodle-like coat means you’ll be a regular at the grooming salon. The good news is Cavoodles are small, so you won’t be paying large-breed prices – just the intensive coat care fee that comes with that curly fur.

Labrador Retriever

Labradors are one of the most beloved large breeds in Australia. The good news for Lab owners is that Labs have a short, dense coat and don’t require haircuts. Professional grooming for a Lab usually involves a thorough bath, blow dry, brush-out, nail trim, and ear cleaning. This kind of service might cost on the order of $50 to $80, depending on location and whether de-shedding is included. Labs do shed seasonally, so you might occasionally opt for a de-shedding treatment (which could push the price toward the higher end of that range, perhaps $80 or a bit more). Still, compared to high-maintenance breeds, Labrador grooming costs are relatively moderate. You likely won’t need to visit a groomer as often – many Lab owners go a few times a year, or primarily during heavy shed periods. If you wash your Lab at home and just use groomers for nails or ear care, the costs stay quite low (some places will do a nails-only or ears-only service for $10–$20). But even full-service “spa days” for a Labrador will almost always stay under $100 in Australia. One thing to note: Labs love water and mud, so you might find yourself seeking an extra bath at the groomer after an enthusiastic outdoor adventure!

Poodle (and Poodle Crosses)

Poodles – whether Toy, Miniature, or Standard – are known for their intensive grooming needs. A Toy or Mini Poodle (small size) will have grooming costs similar to a Cavoodle, roughly $70–$100 per session, whereas a Standard Poodle (large) is often one of the pricier dogs to groom. Standard Poodles might cost anywhere from $100 up to $150 for a full groom, especially if you request a fancy trim or pom-pom style on the legs and tail. Poodles have hair (not fur) that grows continuously, so they need haircuts as often as every 4–6 weeks to stay tidy. That means the annual grooming expense for a Poodle can be quite high (more on that below). Many groomers charge Poodle owners a bit extra if the dog’s coat is kept long or if a lot of scissoring is required, because it’s time-consuming work. The flipside is Poodles look spectacular when well-groomed, and regular appointments keep their skin and coat in top condition. If you’re considering a poodle or poodle-mix breed (all those “-oodle” dogs like Spoodles, Groodles, etc.), go in knowing that grooming will be a significant and ongoing part of your pet budget.

These examples illustrate how breed and coat type translate to cost. For a Cavoodle or small poodle mix, you’re mainly paying for the time and skill to manage that curly coat on a petite frame. For a large Poodle or doodle, it’s the ultimate grooming commitment – high cost per session and high frequency. For a Lab, grooming is simpler and cheaper, even though the dog is larger, because it’s just baths and basic care rather than styling. Other popular breeds will fall somewhere on this spectrum. A Golden Retriever, for instance, might cost ~$80–$100 for a full groom that includes lots of undercoat thinning. A Shih Tzu (another small, long-haired breed) might be around the same as a Cavoodle, say $75–$95 each time. If you have a mixed breed, consider their coat type and size to predict grooming needs. When in doubt, ask a groomer for breed-specific insights – they can tell you “Dogs like yours usually take X hours and cost about $Y” to help you plan.

Annual Grooming Budget: What to Expect Per Year

Grooming isn’t a one-off expense – it’s a recurring part of owning certain dogs. How much you spend in a year will depend on your dog’s needs and how frequently you visit the groomer. Let’s break down a few scenarios:

High-Maintenance Small Dog (e.g. Cavoodle, Shih Tzu, Mini Poodle)

These dogs typically need grooming every 4 to 8 weeks. Assuming you go roughly every 6 weeks, that’s about 8–9 grooming sessions a year. At an average of around $80 per session, you’re looking at about $640–$720 per year. If you stretch to every 8 weeks, maybe ~6 sessions, it could be around $480 for the year (but pushing it that far can lead to more matting, so many owners stick to a tighter schedule). Add the occasional extra (like a flea treatment or teeth cleaning), and it’s easy to spend $700+ annually on grooming a small but high-maintenance breed. This is something to budget for when you choose an “oodle” or long-haired lap dog. The upside: your dog will always be clean, mat-free, and looking adorable.

Large, Regularly Groomed Dog (e.g. Standard Poodle, Oodle, Long-haired breed)

Big dogs that require routine grooms can really rack up costs across the year. A Standard Poodle might also need grooming every 6 weeks. Say it costs ~$120 on average per visit; over 8–9 visits that’s roughly $960–$1080 a year. Even if you go slightly less often, you’re likely spending close to a thousand dollars annually to keep a large poodle or doodle in good coat condition. Another example is a Bernese Mountain Dog or Newfoundland – they don’t get haircuts per se, but a full de-shed and trim of such a large, heavy-coated dog could be $150+ each time, done a few times a year. If you have a breed like this, you might try to do some maintenance at home to reduce pro grooming frequency, but realistically, professional help is needed for the big jobs.

Low-Maintenance or Infrequent Grooming Dog (e.g. Labrador, Beagle, Staffy)

If your dog doesn’t require regular haircuts, you might only see a groomer a few times a year. Let’s say you take a Labrador for a bath and nail trim 3 or 4 times annually at ~$60 each – that’s roughly $180–$240 per year. Some owners might not use professional grooming at all for short-haired dogs, opting to do baths at home and only paying for the occasional nail clip or ear cleaning. Those costs are pretty minimal (perhaps $10 here or $15 there, if at all). Even factoring in some DIY supplies (shampoos, brushes), the annual spend might stay under $100 for a low-maintenance dog. Of course, if you want to pamper your short-haired dog with monthly washes or deshedding treatments, you can spend more – but it’s usually discretionary. On the other hand, as dogs age or if they develop skin conditions, you might need grooming more often for hygiene; for example, an older Staffy with skin issues might get a medicated bath every month at $50 each, totaling $600 a year. So “low-maintenance” can evolve over a dog’s lifetime.

In summary, the annual grooming cost for a dog in Australia can range from almost nothing (for an easy-care coat groomed at home) to over a thousand dollars (for a large, high-maintenance breed on a strict professional schedule). Most dog owners will find themselves somewhere in between. According to industry figures, when averaged across all dog owners (including those who never go to a salon), Australians spent about $128 per year on grooming per pet in 2016 – and this number has likely risen with the booming popularity of groom-demanding breeds. If your dog is one of those breeds, be realistic about the ongoing commitment. Many owners set aside a monthly amount for grooming in their pet budget. It can be helpful to calculate it: e.g., $80 every 8 weeks is about $10 a week over the year – a small price for a happy, clean pup. Planning for these costs prevents unpleasant surprises and ensures your furry friend gets the care they need without you feeling the pinch all at once.

Seasonal Trends and 2025 Pricing Updates

The past couple of years have been interesting for the pet grooming industry in Australia. With more people adopting dogs during the pandemic and a general rise in pet ownership, demand for grooming services has surged. At the same time, inflation and skilled labor shortages have driven up the operating costs for groomers. The result? Grooming prices have been on the rise in many areas from 2023 into 2025. If it’s been a few years since you last had a dog groomed, you might notice you’re paying more now – not just due to your dog’s coat growing, but because base rates have increased to keep up with costs and high demand. For example, what used to be a $90 groom might now be $110 at the same salon, as many businesses adjusted prices recently.

Another trend: in some regions, the sheer demand means you have to book far ahead. Popular groomers in major cities report being booked out weeks or even months in advance during peak periods. While this doesn’t directly change the listed price, it does mean you need to plan your dog’s appointments early. A last-minute Christmas grooming appointment (if you can get one) might not cost more on the receipt, but the effort to secure it is higher – and you may have to accept whatever time or price you can get. Some owners end up using more expensive mobile groomers during busy times if salon appointments are unavailable.

In terms of raw numbers, current pricing patterns as of 2024 show higher ceilings than before. We’re seeing small dog full grooms commonly in the $80–$100+ range (where a few years ago $60–$80 was common). Large breeds that once topped out around $120 might be charged $150 or more now at premium salons. One state comparison in 2025 found average groom prices ranging as high as $160 in the ACT (where groomers are fewer). It’s clear that geography and timing play a role in these upper-end prices. On the flip side, competition in the grooming market – especially with new mobile services and platforms to find groomers – could eventually help balance costs. For now, though, Australian pet owners are generally paying a bit more for grooming than they did a few years back, and those with multiple or high-need dogs are feeling the impact on the household budget.

One positive aspect of these trends is that many groomers are expanding their offerings (spa-like add-ons, specialty services) to add value, and a lot of pet owners are willing to invest in their dogs’ wellbeing. Grooming is not just about looks – it contributes to your dog’s health by keeping their coat, skin, and nails in good shape. Australian dog owners spent over $12 billion on pet products and services in a year, and grooming is a growing slice of that pie. Knowing the costs upfront helps you be a savvy pet parent. If the prices seem daunting, consider learning some upkeep skills (brushing, combing, even a bit of trimming) to extend the time between professional grooms. But also remember that a good professional grooming is often worth every cent – your dog comes home clean, comfortable, and looking great, without you having to wrestle with clippers or tubs.

Final Thoughts

Dog grooming costs in Australia span a wide range, and being informed can help you manage these expenses. The key factors are your dog’s size, coat, and needs: a small short-haired dog will cost far less to maintain than a big fluffy one. On average, basic grooming might start around $40–$60 and go up into the low hundreds for deluxe treatments or large dogs. Always communicate with your groomer about your pet’s condition and what you want done – surprises (like severe matting or fleas) can lead to surprise fees, whereas a clear plan keeps the price transparent. If you’re on a tight budget, you can prioritise essential services (e.g. hygienic clipping and nail trims) and skip the fancy extras, or shop around in your area for a groomer whose rates fit your wallet.

Ultimately, grooming is an investment in your dog’s health and happiness. A well-groomed dog not only looks and smells nice but also feels better – free of mats, with healthy skin, and trimmed nails that don’t snag. By understanding what goes into grooming prices, you can make informed choices that balance cost with care. Whether you have a pampered Cavoodle who visits the salon every month or a sturdy Labrador who just needs the occasional scrub, there’s a grooming routine and schedule that will work for you. Hopefully this guide has given you a clear picture of what grooming services cost in Australia today, and how to budget for your best friend’s ongoing needs. With this knowledge, you can confidently book those grooming appointments, knowing exactly what to expect when the bill comes – and enjoy the outcome of a clean, happy dog wagging their tail on the ride home.

Looking for a groomer in your area? Check out our state guides for NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania.

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