How Do I Price My Mobile Dog Grooming Services?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Nov 3
- 3 min read
Starting a mobile dog grooming business is an exciting opportunity to combine your love for pets with entrepreneurship. But one of the first questions new mobile groomers ask is: how do I price my grooming services profitably?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors that influence pricing, how to set competitive rates, and how to ensure your business remains profitable—while also protecting it with the right insurance.
Why Pricing Matters
Pricing isn’t just about covering costs—it’s about positioning your brand, attracting the right clients, and building a sustainable business. Mobile grooming offers convenience and personalized care, which means you can charge premium rates compared to traditional salons.
Average Mobile Dog Grooming Prices
Mobile dog grooming prices vary based on location, dog size, breed, and services offered. Here’s a general breakdown:
Small dogs: $50–$75
Medium dogs: $70–$100
Large dogs: $90–$150
Add-ons (flea treatment, teeth brushing, express service): $10–$50
These prices reflect the convenience of mobile grooming and the one-on-one attention pets receive. For a deeper look at national averages, check out this complete guide to mobile grooming costs.
Key Pricing Factors
Dog Size and Breed
Larger dogs or breeds with thick or curly coats take longer to groom and require more effort, which justifies higher pricing.
Coat Condition
Matted or dirty coats need extra time and care. Charging additional fees for de-matting or deep cleaning helps cover the labor.
Location
Urban areas often support higher prices due to increased demand and cost of living. Rural areas may require more competitive pricing.
Service Packages
Offering tiered packages (basic, full-service, premium) allows you to cater to different customer budgets and expectations.
Frequency of Service
Regular clients can be offered discounts or loyalty packages to encourage repeat business and stable income.
Pricing Strategies for New Groomers
Cost-Based Pricing
Start by calculating your monthly expenses (van, fuel, supplies, insurance) and set prices that cover costs with a profit margin.
Competitive Research
Analyze what other mobile groomers in your area charge and position your pricing accordingly.
Value-Added Services
Include extras like bows, treats, or seasonal promotions to justify premium pricing and enhance customer satisfaction.
Membership or Subscription Models
Offer monthly grooming plans at a discounted rate to ensure recurring revenue and client retention.
Operating Costs to Consider
To price your services profitably, you need to understand your monthly expenses:
Grooming van lease or purchase
Fuel and maintenance
Grooming supplies and equipment
Marketing and advertising
Insurance and licensing
Software subscriptions
For a full breakdown of startup and operating costs, explore this cost guide for mobile grooming businesses.
Is Mobile Dog Grooming Profitable?
Yes—many mobile groomers earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with some exceeding $100,000. Profit margins can range from 20% to 40%, thanks to lower overhead compared to brick-and-mortar salons. Learn more about profitability strategies in our blog is owing a dog grooming business profitable?
Protect Your Business with the Right Insurance
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in mobile dog grooming insurance. We help you find coverage tailored to your business, including:
Final Thoughts
Pricing your mobile dog grooming services isn’t just about numbers—it’s about understanding your costs, your market, and the value you provide. By factoring in dog size, coat condition, location, and service tiers, and applying smart pricing strategies like memberships and value-adds, you can build a profitable and sustainable business.
And while pricing is key, protecting your business is just as important. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in mobile dog grooming insurance and can help you find the right coverage for your van, equipment, and liability needs.
Ready to start or grow your mobile grooming business?
Contact Wexford Insurance and let us help you groom with confidence.
