Friends and family often ask me if they should tip groomers. I discovered that most people have no idea what the protocol is for tipping dog groomers.
Pet grooming is a physically taxing profession that is typically performed out of a passion for animals. Not to mention the daily patience required because animals are erratic and don’t always cooperate as we would like.
Some might contend that they are exempt from tipping their groomer because they do not tip their hairstylist. In response, I would say that if you become anxious, there is very little chance that you will urinate on your hairdresser. It’s likely that most of you won’t bite your hairdresser either. You also stop moving when your hairstylist tells you to. On the other hand, groomers usually work on moving targets.
Having said that, how much should you tip your groomer? The quality of the work and the services provided determine this. A tip is due if the groomer paid attention and gave you the haircut you wanted. Tip based on your degree of satisfaction and gratitude, just like you would with anything else. Don’t tip if you receive subpar service.
Generally speaking, you should give your groomer between 15% and 20% of the total service. As a gesture of gratitude and appreciation, tips are anything you can afford. Sometimes, your groomer will include free extra services like nail polishing, teeth brushing, and conditioner application. Maybe your pet gets amazing grooming every time.
Why Should You Tip Your Dog Groomer?
meaningful way to recognize their hard work, skill, and dedication to keeping your pet happy and healthy. Here’s why tipping matters and how it makes a difference: 1. Grooming Is Hard (and Sometimes Messy) Work Dog groomers don’t just give baths and haircuts—they handle wiggly, anxious, or uncooperative pets (not every dog enjoys grooming!). Matted fur, ticks, or skin conditions that require extra care; sharp nails and teeth; and unpredictable behavior (even the sweetest dogs can snap when stressed).
Cleaning up spills (yes, including poop, urine, and anal gland expressions) and leaving a tip demonstrates gratitude for their time and work in ensuring your dog is happy and healthy.
Many Groomers Rely on Tips for a fair wage.
Grooming isn’t always a high-paying job, in contrast to other occupations. Numerous groomers: Work as an independent contractor without benefits or regular compensation. Divide profits with the salon or cover booth rental costs. For a set fee, spend hours on challenging grooms. By filling the gap, tips increase the financial rewards of their
They Keep Your Dog Safe & Comfortable and Build a Great Relationship for future visits.
An excellent groomer:
employs calm, gentle methods for anxious dogs. detects health problems (ear infections, skin disorders, lumps) before you do
Tipping frequently can result in priority booking (generous clients are remembered by groomers!). Extra care (free bandana, nicer cologne, fluffier dry) Greater adaptability (last-minute bookings, unique demands) A happy, well-groomed dog is the result of happy groomers! understands breed-specific haircuts and appropriate grooming techniques. Prevents injuries from aggressive pets, clippers, and scissors Tipping motivates them to keep giving excellent care.
Tipping Dog Groomers in Particular Situations
when your dog bites your groomer, particularly if there is no additional fee for the bite.
When your dog drew blood or caused serious injury, the groomer had to stop, leaving your dog only partially groomed. It’s likely that you won’t be billed for an unfinished groom.
Fecal matter adhered to a pet’s hindquarters (or other parts).
Severe shedding: Your dog looks like a walking fur storm.
Extreme matting situations: When you pick up your dog, your groomer may save the fur sheet and show you a sweater made of matted fur because your dog is so severely matted.
Dogs that are overweight or elderly, particularly larger breeds, will not tolerate being groomed. For groomers, this can be the most challenging task of all; it calls for patience and skill. In addition to taking longer than most grooms, this calls for assistance from another groomer. For this, you should give your groomer and their helper a tip.
Your groomer deserves a tip. Sometimes, or whenever you can afford it, if not always. You should at least give your groomer a tip during the holidays once a year. Consider all the effort they put forth to keep your dog looking and smelling amazing.