What Is Included in Dog Grooming? Full Groom vs Wash & Tidy Explained

A full dog groom includes bath, dry, clip or trim, nail trim, ear clean and brush-out. What is included in dog grooming changes if you booked a wash and tidy, which skips or minimises the body clip. Confirm nails, ears and sanitary in writing.

Booking terms like “full groom” and “wash and tidy” aren’t standardised across every salon. This guide breaks down what’s usually included so you can compare quotes fairly.

The full groom service

The full groom is the most complete service. It’s for dogs with longer coats that need regular clipping. For the full salon workflow, see dog grooming rules and steps. Here’s what’s included:

The wash & tidy service

The wash & tidy (also called a maintenance groom) is for dogs who don’t need a full clip but still need regular care. This service is usually $20-$30 cheaper than a full groom.

What’s included:

• Bath – Shampoo, conditioner, and rinse
• Blow-dry – Full body drying
• Brush out – Brushing to remove loose hair and prevent mats
• Basic trim – Light trimming of face, feet, and sanitary areas
• Nail trimming – Clip and file nails
• Ear check – Basic cleaning if needed

What’s NOT included: Full body clipping or styling. This is best for short-haired breeds or dogs who just need a refresh between full grooms.

Understanding the sanitary clip

The sanitary clip is a hygiene trim that removes hair around your dog’s genitals and anus. This prevents:

• Urine and faeces from getting trapped in the coat
• Skin irritation and infections
• Bad smells
• Difficulty going to the toilet

This is included in both full groom and wash & tidy services. It’s a common practice recommended by the RSPCA Australia.

It’s hygiene, not a fashion bald patch. Ask them to show you the length they mean. Some owners want a tidy nappy. Some want a full tummy shave. Those aren’t the same. Get it in the notes so pickup isn’t a surprise.

Nail trimming: What to expect

Nail trimming is usually included in both services, but there are exceptions:

• Standard trim – Included in the base price
• Overgrown nails – Some groomers charge an extra $10-$15 if nails are very long
• Black nails – Experienced groomers can safely trim black nails
• Nail filing – Usually included, but some salons charge extra for a “pedicure”

According to the RSPCA Australia, long nails can cause walking problems and joint pain.

Most full grooms include nails. Some tidies don’t. Black nails go slower. Quicking happens. Styptic should be on the trolley. If your dog hates feet, say so before they’re on the table, not after the first snip.

Ear cleaning: what’s included vs extra

Most groomers include external ear cleaning. That means:

• Removing visible wax and debris
• Trimming hair around the ear opening
• Checking for signs of infection

What’s NOT included:

• Deep ear cleaning – If your dog has an infection, you should see a vet
• Plucking hair – Some groomers charge extra for plucking hair from inside the ear
• Medicated treatment – This requires a vet’s prescription

Inclusions only matter if you and the salon use the same words. A Bondi “full groom” that skips ears is not the same job as a Hobart package that lists nails, pads and sanitary as standard. If the confirmation email only says “groom”, reply with the list you expect. Don’t add a second dog at the door and expect the same finish time. So ask which extras are a la carte before you pick the cheaper number.

Extra services

These services are usually not included in the base price:

• Dematting – Extra work to remove tight knots
• Flea treatment – Usually done at a vet clinic
• Teeth brushing – usually a small extra cost
• Anal gland expression – Ask your groomer if they offer this
• Creative cuts – Extra cost for show trims or hand-scissoring
• De-shedding treatment – For heavy shedders

For typical Australian price bands by dog size and common surcharges, see our 2026 dog grooming price guide.

Teeth rubbing, cologne, bows, and colour are extras. Cologne on an itchy dog is a bad extra. Dematting is the extra that should be quoted before they start, not sprung at the till. Ask for a menu. Then the word “included” has a meaning.

How to choose the right service

Choose a full groom if:

• Your dog has a long or curly coat
• It’s been 6–8 weeks since the last full clip
• You want a specific style or length
• Your dog’s coat is matted and needs a fresh start

Choose a wash & tidy if:

• Your dog has a short coat
• You had a full groom recently and just need maintenance
• You’re on a budget but want professional care
• Your dog doesn’t need clipping, just cleaning and brushing

When booking, always discuss your dog’s specific needs with the groomer. Use what to tell your dog groomer before your appointment as a checklist, and plan ahead with how far in advance to book a dog groomer. To find a dog groomer near you offering the services your pet needs, browse our verified directory.

Frequently Asked Questions