Dog grooming is an essential part of keeping your furry friend healthy, comfortable, and looking their best. If you’re a new dog owner or even a seasoned one, you may find yourself wondering: how long does grooming a dog actually take?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Grooming time depends on several factors, including your dog’s size, coat type, behavior, and the specific grooming services involved. In this guide, we’ll break it all down so you know exactly what to expect, whether you’re grooming at home or visiting a professional groomer.
Average Time It Takes to Groom a Dog
Dog grooming typically takes between 30 minutes and 3 hours. Dogs with short coats often take a relatively short time to get groomed whereas those with thick, long and curly coats might take a lot of time.
Here's a general overview:
Short-haired dogs: 30-60 minutes
Medium-coated dogs: 1-2 hours
Long-haired or curly-coated dogs: 2-3 hours.
Dogs with matted coats or heavy shedding: 3+ hours.
These periods may differ according to the temperament and the frequency of grooming the dog.
Factors That Affect How Long Dog Grooming Takes
Dog Size
Size has a significant influence on grooming time. A Chihuahua is just less to groom than a Golden Retriever.
Small dogs: They are usually quicker to groom.
Medium dogs: Require a moderate amount of grooming time.
Large dogs: The length of the session’s length increases because of size and the volume of coats.
Dogs of larger size usually need more shampoo, take longer to dry, and need to be brushed more.
Coat Type and Length
The length of the coat of your dog is among the most significant determinants of the grooming time.
Short Coats
Simple brushing, bathing and nail clipping are typically required of dogs such as Beagles, Boxers and Dalmatians. These session’s tend to be fast and short.
Medium Coats
Breeds like Border Collies or Australian Shepherds require more brushing and de-shedding, which adds time.
Long or Curly Coats
Poodles, Shih Tzus and Afghans require extensive brushing, trimming and even styling. These coats are easily tangled require careful handling, thus, taking much time to be groomed.
Condition of the Coat
A groomed coat will spend much less time being groomed than a neglected one.
Brushed dogs: Brushing of the dogs on a regular basis.
Matted or tangled coats: More time to be spent in detangling.
Matted coats may increase a grooming session by 30 or an hour or more.
Dog’s Behavior and Temperament
A quiet, obedient dog is far easier to groom than a fretful or anxious one.
Dogs that:
- Sit still
- Are used to being handled
- Trust the groomer
…can significantly reduce grooming time.
On the other hand, anxious, aggressive, and easily startled dogs might require frequent breaks, gentle treatment, and even several sittings.
Grooming Services and How Long Each Takes
Various types of grooming services require different time periods.
The following are some of the typical grooming activities:
Bathing
15-30 minutes
This involves shampooing, rinsing and in some cases conditioning. The thick-haired dogs might require a lot of time to be rinsed and dried.
Brushing and De-Shedding
10-45 minutes
Minimal brushing is needed on short coats, and long shedders such as Huskies or German Shepherds need to be taken through prolonged de-shedding.
Haircut or Trimming
30-90 minutes
Specific cuts or in-depth trims are longer. Basic trims are quicker whereas styled cuts are precise.
Nail Trimming
5-15 minutes
This is normally fast unless the dog opposes or has long nails.
Ear Cleaning and Teeth Brushing
5-10 minutes
These are normally incorporated in a complete grooming package.
How Long Does Grooming Take at Home?
Home grooming can take longer than professional grooming, especially if you’re inexperienced.
Beginner pet owners: 1.5-3 hours
Seasoned owners: 45 minutes-2 hours.
Dogs can be more distracted at home, and you might require breaks. When you groom your dog at home you can do it at the pace your dog is comfortable with, and it may be a less stressful experience to the pet.
How Long Does Professional Dog Grooming Take?
The average time spent on professional grooming is 1.5 to 4 hours based on the salon and services offered.
Important note:
It may take your dog more time than the grooming time. There are numerous salons appointments are staggered, rest periods, or wait until the coats are completely dry.
Other groomers provide express grooming which is aimed at getting the grooming done in the shortest time possible- best when the dog is anxious.
Grooming Time by Popular Dog Breeds
The following are typical ones:
Labrador Retriever: 45-75 minutes
Golden Retriever: 1.5-2.5 hours
Poodle: 2-3 hours
Shih Tzu: 2-3 hours
Yorkshire Terrier: 1.5-2 hours
German Shepherd: 1.5-2 hours
All these estimates are affected by breed standards, coat density and grooming style.
How Often Should Dogs Be Groomed?
Regular cleaning can make the sessions shorter and simpler.
Short haired dogs: After every 6-8 weeks.
Medium-coated dogs: Once per 4-6 weeks.
Long-haired dogs: Every 3-4 weeks
More frequent grooming is helpful in avoiding mats, less shedding and in general comfort.
Tips to Reduce Dog Grooming Time
If you want grooming sessions to go faster, try these tips:
- Have your dog brushed at home in between grooming.
- Begin grooming at an early age of a puppy.
- Have nails trimmed every now and then.
- Provide treats or positive reinforcement.
- Clean your dog regularly.
- An obedient dog is always prepared to groom faster.
Key Takeaways: How Long Does Grooming a Dog Take?
So, how long does grooming a dog take? Anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your dog’s size, coat type, behavior, and grooming needs.
While grooming may seem time-consuming, it’s an investment in your dog’s health, hygiene, and happiness. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking great but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
Whether you groom at home or rely on a professional, understanding the time involved helps you plan better and ensures your dog enjoys a comfortable, stress-free experience every time.
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