2026 Dog Grooming Price Guide: What to Pay in Australia
2026 Dog Grooming Price Guide: What to Pay in Australia
Dog grooming prices in Australia range from $70-$200+ depending on your dog’s size, service type, and whether you choose a salon or mobile groomer. A full groom (wash, dry, clip, and nails) costs $70-$90 for small dogs at salons, $85-$110 for medium breeds, and $100-$140 for large dogs. Mobile grooming typically adds $10-$20 to these prices but offers convenience and reduced stress for anxious pets.
If you have booked a grooming appointment recently, you might have noticed the price on the receipt has ticked up. You aren’t alone. With the rising cost of utilities, products, and labour, dog grooming prices in Australia have adjusted across the board in 2026.
But what is a “fair” price to pay? And why does a Mobile Groomer quote $100 for a service that a Salon charges $80 for?
In this guide, we break down the current market rates for dog grooming across Australia, helping you budget for your pet’s care without compromising on quality.
Average Dog Grooming Costs by Size
Most professional groomers structure their pricing based on the size of the dog and the time required to complete the groom. While prices vary between Sydney, Melbourne, and regional areas, these are the national averages you can expect to pay for a Full Groom (Wash, Dry, Clip, and Nails).
| Dog Size / Breed Example | Salon Price | Mobile Price |
|---|---|---|
| Small (e.g., Terrier, Pug) | $70 – $90 | $80 – $100 |
| Medium (e.g., Cocker Spaniel, Cavoodle) | $85 – $110 | $95 – $125 |
| Large (e.g., Labrador, Border Collie) | $100 – $140 | $120 – $160 |
| Giant (e.g., Bernese Mountain Dog) | $150 – $200+ | $180 – $250+ |
*Estimated averages for 2026. Prices may vary based on coat condition.
Wash & Tidy vs Full Groom: Price Comparison
A Wash & Tidy (bath, dry, brush, and basic trim) is typically $20-$30 cheaper than a Full Groom. This service is ideal for dogs who don’t need a full clip but still require regular maintenance.
| Service Type | Small Dog | Medium Dog | Large Dog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wash & Tidy | $50 – $65 | $65 – $85 | $80 – $110 |
| Full Groom | $70 – $90 | $85 – $110 | $100 – $140 |
Mobile vs. Salon: Why the Price Difference?
One of the most common questions we get is: “Why is mobile grooming more expensive?”
When you book a mobile service, you are paying for convenience and exclusivity. A mobile groomer drives a fully equipped salon to your driveway. This incurs extra costs like fuel, generator maintenance, and travel time.
- No Travel: You don’t have to wrestle your dog into the car.
- Less Stress: Your dog is the only animal in the trailer (no barking dogs in cages nearby).
- Speed: The groom is usually finished in 60–90 minutes, whereas salons may keep a dog for 3–4 hours.
Hidden Costs: The “Matting Fee”
If you do not brush your dog between professional visits, you may be hit with a Matting Fee. This is standard industry practice.
Removing tight mats (knots) close to the skin is dangerous and time-consuming. It dulls clipper blades and requires immense skill to avoid cutting the dog’s skin. Most groomers charge between $15 to $30 per 15 minutes of extra dematting work.
To get an accurate quote for your dog’s specific needs, find a dog groomer near you and discuss your pet’s coat condition before booking.
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