Find Dog Groomers in Victoria
Discover professional dog groomers across Victoria, including Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, and throughout regional Victoria.
Major cities in Victoria
Find dog groomers in these popular areas.
Dog Ownership in Victoria
Understanding the local pet landscape.
Dog Population
~1.6 million
Victoria is estimated to have over 1.5 million dogs – possibly on par with NSW. Victoria historically has had a slightly higher rate of dog ownership per household than NSW. With ~6.7 million people, that suggests roughly 1.5–1.8 million pet dogs in VIC. Like NSW, nearly half of Victorian households have a dog.
Popular Breeds
Victorians love similar breeds to NSW, with a strong affinity for Cavoodles as the top dog. Golden Retrievers are especially popular in VIC (ranking #2 in recent data) – reflecting a preference for loyal, family-friendly dogs. Other favorites include the French Bulldog, Border Collie, and various Poodle/doodle mixes.
Climate & Grooming in Victoria
How local weather affects your dog's grooming needs.
Temperature & Seasonal Grooming
Cooler temperate – matting common in winter; regular trims year-round for long-haired breeds.
Victoria has a cool temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Hot summers (Melbourne can hit 40°C on occasion) mean dogs need ways to keep cool – summer grooms might involve coat thinning or clipping for thick-coated breeds. Winters are cold, especially in inland Victoria and the high country (Melbourne winter days average 6–14°C, with frost in outer areas). Many owners let their dogs' coats grow a bit longer in winter for warmth.
Peak Grooming Season
The busiest grooming season in Victoria is spring (Sept–Nov). As temperatures rise, dogs start molting their winter undercoat – it's common to see clumps of fur blow around as double-coated breeds shed heavily. Groomers are booked out for de-shedding treatments and tidy-ups in spring. Early summer (Dec) is also busy as owners get their dogs clipped before the hottest months and Christmas holidays.
Seasonal Grooming Tips
Victorian dogs experience more seasonal coat change than in warmer states – heavy shedding in spring and sometimes in autumn as well. Thus, grooming needs peak during those transitional seasons.
Groomer Coverage
Excellent coverage in Melbourne metro area with good regional presence.
High groomer density in Melbourne metro; growing mobile services in regional VIC. Wine country areas like Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula also have good groomer availability.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Victoria
Places to enjoy with your furry friend.
Urban Parks & Cafes
Melbourne has countless off-leash parks. It's common to see morning joggers with dogs along the Yarra River trails or the Tan track at Royal Botanic Gardens. Dog-friendly cafes are a Melbourne specialty – many neighborhoods have cafes with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.
Popular Spots
- Princes Park
- Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy
- Albert Park
Beaches
While Melbourne's bay beaches have seasonal restrictions, there are designated dog beaches like Brighton Dog Beach (fully fenced off-leash area) and St Kilda West (off-leash in certain months). Year-round off-leash beach fun is available a short drive away.
Popular Spots
- Brighton Dog Beach
- St Kilda West
- Altona Dog Beach
Getaways
Victoria's wine regions and tourist towns are welcoming to dogs. Daylesford, the Yarra Valley, and Mornington Peninsula have pet-friendly wineries and accommodations. Many hiking trails in state parks allow dogs on leash.
Popular Spots
- Daylesford
- Yarra Valley
- Mornington Peninsula
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about dog grooming in Victoria.
How much do dog groomers charge in Victoria?
In Victoria, dog grooming typically costs between $80–$140 in Melbourne, with regional areas charging closer to $60–$110. Prices vary by breed size and coat condition, and mobile groomers usually charge a premium for convenience.
How often should I get my dog groomed in Victoria?
Victorian dogs benefit from grooming every 4–8 weeks. Spring is the busiest time for groomers due to heavy shedding after winter. Many owners also schedule grooms before Christmas and again in autumn to manage coat changes.
What breeds need regular grooming in Victoria?
Popular breeds like Cavoodles, Golden Retrievers, Groodles, and French Bulldogs are common in Victoria and benefit from regular grooming. Poodle mixes in particular need grooming every 4–6 weeks to avoid matting.
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.