How long does dog grooming take?

Ever stared at your fluffy friend and wondered how long it’ll take to get them looking show-ready? Dog grooming isn’t one-size-fits-all—time depends on breed, coat type, and the services you choose. Think of it like booking a spa day for your dog; some treatments are quick pick-me-ups, while others are full-day pampering sessions.

Short-haired breeds like Boxers or Beagles breeze through grooming. A basic bath, nail trim, and ear clean usually wraps up in 30 to 45 minutes. It’s like a quick shower and manicure for your pup. But if your dog’s nails are curled into the pads or ears are infected, expect an extra 15–20 minutes as groomers take extra care.

Medium to long-haired dogs with thick coats, like Golden Retrievers or Siberian Huskies, face a more extensive process. De-shedding sessions alone can eat up 45 minutes to an hour, especially during shedding seasons. Add a full haircut, pawdicure, and a deep-conditioning treatment, and you’re looking at 2 to 3 hours. It’s a meticulous job, with groomers carefully detangling mats without pulling on sensitive skin.

For curly-haired breeds like Poodles or Bichon Frises, maintaining that signature look is labor-intensive. Precision haircuts demand attention to detail, taking 1.5 to 2 hours just for styling. Regular brushing between appointments helps—neglecting it risks painful matting that can extend grooming sessions by hours or even require a shave-down.

Before booking, check local regulations. Some areas require groomers to be certified in pet first aid or animal handling, which can impact service quality and safety. If your dog has anxiety, consider prepping them with calming treats or short practice sessions at home. A relaxed dog means a quicker, stress-free grooming experience for everyone.

Don’t forget breed-specific regulations. Certain cities restrict grooming styles for brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs or Pugs) due to breathing risks. Groomers might avoid trimming around the face or use specific techniques to prevent overheating. Always communicate any health issues or behavioral quirks to your groomer—it saves time and ensures your dog’s well-being.

Mobile grooming vans offer convenience but might take longer to set up and clean. Expect an additional 15–30 minutes compared to in-store appointments. However, the one-on-one attention can be a game-changer for anxious dogs.

Newly adopted puppies or rescue dogs often need extra patience. Their first grooming session might be a slow process of building trust, with breaks every 10–15 minutes. Investing time in positive associations now pays off with smoother future appointments.

Next time you schedule grooming, factor in your dog’s unique needs. Whether it’s a quick tidy-up or a full transformation, remember: quality grooming isn’t just about looks—it’s a crucial part of your dog’s health and happiness. After all, a well-groomed dog is a wagging, confident pup ready to conquer the park.