Why Dog Groomers Need Professional Invoices
Dog grooming is a hands-on business where pricing varies dramatically based on breed, coat condition, size, and temperament. A professional dog grooming invoice that itemizes each service helps pet parents understand why a Standard Poodle groom costs three times more than a Beagle bath — and it helps you track revenue by service type to understand what's driving your business.
Detailed invoices also reduce disputes. When a client questions a $120 charge, you can point to the invoice showing a full groom ($75), de-matting surcharge ($25), and nail grinding ($10) plus teeth brushing ($10). Transparency builds trust and repeat business.
Common Line Items on Dog Grooming Invoices
- Bath and brush — shampoo, conditioner, blow dry, and brush-out as the base service
- Full groom — bath plus haircut/trim, typically priced by breed size and coat type
- De-matting — charged by time or severity, for tangled or neglected coats
- Nail services — clip, grind (Dremel), or both, sometimes with styptic powder noted if a quick was hit
- Ear cleaning — cleaning and hair plucking for breeds prone to ear infections (Poodles, Cocker Spaniels)
- Teeth brushing — enzymatic toothpaste application
- Anal gland expression — external expression as an add-on service
- Specialty treatments — flea/tick shampoo, medicated baths, deshedding treatments (FURminator), paw pad balm
- Breed-specific styling — Poodle clips, Schnauzer patterns, Bichon sculpting, hand-stripping for terriers
Best Practices for Dog Grooming Invoicing
Price by breed and size, not a flat rate. Create pricing tiers (small, medium, large, giant) and note the breed on every invoice. A matted Goldendoodle takes three times longer than a well-maintained one, so document the coat condition to justify any surcharges.
Track the dog's name, breed, and any notes about behavior or health conditions on the invoice. If a dog has a history of anxiety, skin sensitivities, or aggression, noting this creates a record that protects you and informs future groomers on your team.
If you use premium products (organic shampoos, medicated treatments), note them on the invoice. Pet parents who care about product quality will appreciate the transparency and see the value in your higher pricing.
Create Dog Grooming Invoices Free
BillThemToday's free invoice generator lets you build professional dog grooming invoices with breed-specific pricing, add-on services, and pet details. Download a branded PDF in minutes — perfect for mobile groomers, salons, and independent groomers.