Have you ever wondered why two dogs of the same breed can have completely different grooming prices? Or why a dog that doesn’t even need a haircut might cost more to groom than one that does?

The answer is simple: no two dogs are exactly alike, and neither are their grooming needs.

From coat condition and hairstyle to professional expertise and attention to detail, several factors influence the final price. Let’s take a closer look at what you’re actually paying for.

Size Matters, but Coat Type Matters More

A larger dog generally requires more shampoo, drying time, and physical work. But weight alone doesn’t tell the whole story.

Take a Samoyed, for example. A Samoyed with a heavily compacted undercoat may require hours of bathing, deshedding, brushing, and drying.

Surprisingly, a bath and deshedding treatment on a Samoyed can cost as much as a full haircut on another dog.

Why? Because grooming prices aren’t determined by how much hair ends up on the floor.

A 15-pound dog with a dense, curly coat can sometimes require more work than a 50-pound short-haired dog. What matters is the time, technique, and care involved.

Not All Haircuts Are Created Equal

A simple, short haircut is very different from a perfectly rounded teddy bear cut, a traditional breed trim, or an Asian Fusion hairstyle.

These styles often require extensive hand-scissoring, an understanding of anatomy and proportion, and years of practice.

Professional groomers invest considerable time and money in education, specialized training, and equipment to perfect their techniques.

At Mimo, many of our clients have specific expectations for their dogs’ haircuts. Achieving those results requires precision, which is why we intentionally limit the number of dogs we groom to give each appointment the attention it deserves.

After all, a beautifully sculpted teddy bear face isn’t something we want to rush.

What Does “Small” and “Well-Maintained” Really Mean?

Here’s something groomers experience almost every day: two people can have very different definitions of the same thing.

A client might describe their dog as “a small doodle,” only for us to meet a 35-pound bundle of curls.

Or they might explain that they brush their dog daily, yet we discover tangles and matting close to the skin.

And that’s understandable! Most pet parents aren’t professional groomers.

Brushing the surface doesn’t necessarily reach the entire coat, especially behind the ears, under the legs, or around the collar.

This is why grooming estimates sometimes change after we meet the dog.

An initial quote is based on the information provided. Once we assess the dog’s actual size, coat condition, and grooming needs, we can offer a more accurate price.

Quality Products, Equipment, and Individual Care

Professional grooming requires more than a good pair of scissors.

Quality shampoos, conditioners, coat treatments, specialized dryers, and properly maintained tools all contribute to a safe, professional service.

Different coats require different products and techniques, while some dogs need additional patience or accommodations.

Puppies, seniors, and anxious dogs may require more breaks or individualized handling.

At Mimo, a beautiful haircut should never come at the expense of a dog’s comfort.

Our appointments typically take three to four hours, sometimes longer, depending on the dog’s needs and styling requirements.

For a closer look at the process, read How Long Does Dog Grooming Take?

Why Do Groomers Charge Additional Fees?

Additional charges can sometimes feel like hidden fees, especially when the final price differs from the initial estimate.

But they often reflect unexpected work discovered during the appointment.

Dematting is a good example. When tangles can be safely removed, groomers may need to work carefully through small sections, using specialized products and techniques while monitoring the dog’s comfort.

On a large dog, dematting alone can take as much hands-on time as grooming another dog entirely.

When matting is too severe, brushing may be painful or unsafe, making a shorter haircut the kinder option.

Similarly, senior dogs with mobility limitations or dogs requiring special handling may need additional time, staff assistance, or safety precautions.

These fees aren’t necessarily about doing something extra to the dog. They’re often about providing the additional care that dog needs.

Of course, transparency matters. Groomers should communicate potential charges and seek approval before additional work whenever possible, and that’s what we do here at Mimo.

Nobody enjoys a surprise on their bill, even when their dog leaves looking fabulous.

So, How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Grooming prices vary considerably across the United States. While many salons offer basic grooming services at more affordable rates, pricing can increase significantly depending on location, coat complexity, professional expertise, and the level of detail involved.

At Mimo, our grooming services start at $125, reflecting our focus on detailed styling, professional coat care, and personalized attention. Rather than maximizing the number of appointments, we intentionally dedicate more time to each dog.

When comparing prices, it’s important to consider not just the final cost, but the experience, techniques, and level of care included in the service.

A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming can help prevent excessive tangling and coat compaction, making appointments more comfortable and predictable.

And not every visit needs a full haircut. Sometimes a professional bath and brush-out between haircuts is exactly what your dog needs.

The right schedule depends on their coat type, lifestyle, and preferred hairstyle.

Learn more in How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?

Final Thoughts

Behind every grooming appointment are professional skills, specialized equipment, quality products, and the time needed to care for an individual dog.

At Mimo, we believe great grooming combines craftsmanship with thoughtful, personalized care.

Because every dog is different, and their grooming experience should be, too.

Visit Mimo in University Heights or La Jolla, San Diego, to request your dog’s next appointment.