When Dog Groomers Need Estimates
A dog grooming estimate gives pet parents a price range when you haven't seen the dog yet. It's perfect for phone and online inquiries where you know the breed and approximate size but can't assess coat condition, matting level, or temperament until the dog is on your table. Estimates set expectations without locking you into a price that doesn't account for real-world surprises.
Estimates are also valuable for new services you're launching — mobile grooming expansion, daycare-and-groom packages, or breed-specific styling that requires consultation.
What to Include in a Dog Grooming Estimate
- Pet information — breed, approximate weight, age, and coat type as described by the owner
- Base grooming range — price range for the standard groom based on breed and size category
- Potential surcharges — de-matting, behavioral handling, oversized for breed, and heavy shedding coat
- Available add-ons — teeth brushing, nail grinding, ear plucking, flea bath, paw balm, bandana or bows
- Products and upgrades — premium shampoo options, medicated baths, deshedding treatments
- Estimated time — how long the appointment will take so the owner can plan pickup
- Frequency discount — pricing benefit for regular appointments (every 4, 6, or 8 weeks)
Best Practices for Dog Grooming Estimates
Use breed-specific knowledge to give informed ranges. A Shih Tzu full groom ranges from $45-$65 depending on coat condition, while a Standard Poodle in a continental clip is $85-$120+. Pet parents respect groomers who know the breed rather than quoting a generic "small dog: $40, big dog: $80."
Explain what could push the price from the low end to the high end. "If Bella's coat has significant matting, the de-matting process adds $20-$40 to the base price. If matting is too severe, a humane shave-down is included at the base groom rate." This education prevents sticker shock on the day of the appointment.
For multi-dog households, provide per-dog estimates and a household total with any applicable discounts. Seeing the combined cost upfront — and the savings from a multi-pet discount — encourages families to book all their dogs at once.
Build Your Dog Grooming Estimate
Use BillThemToday's estimate generator to create professional dog grooming estimates that convert inquiries into appointments. Show breed-specific pricing, list available add-ons, and present your services in a polished PDF. Completely free — no account required.