How Much Should You Tip Your Dog Groomer? (And Can You Tip with Zelle or Venmo?)

Tipping a dog groomer is one of those things nobody explains. Is it expected? How much is normal? And with a mobile groomer, how do you even hand it over? Here's a simple guide.

The quick answer: 15% to 20%

The most common guideline in the US is a tip of 15% to 20% of the grooming price. Tips are always optional, and a sincere thank-you or a kind review is appreciated too.

What that looks like in real numbers

• $99 bath & brush: about $15 to $20
• $129 full haircut (small dog): about $19 to $26
• $149 full haircut (medium dog): about $22 to $30
• $199 full haircut (X-large dog): about $30 to $40

When people tip a little more

• Matting or a very dirty coat that took extra time and patience.
• An anxious, senior or wiggly dog who needed breaks and a gentle hand.
• A big double-coated dog after a heavy shedding season.
• The holidays. Many people give a bigger tip, or the price of one groom, around December as a thank-you for the year.

Do you tip a mobile groomer the same way?

Yes. Mobile groomers usually do the whole job one-on-one, from bath to haircut to cleaning the van between dogs, so the same 15% to 20% guideline applies. If you're a regular, a consistent tip each visit is common.

Can you tip with Zelle or Venmo?

At Woofers Dog Spa you pay after the groom with cash, Zelle or Venmo, and you can add a tip the same way you pay. There is nothing to pay when you book. See our payment options for how it works.

Other ways to say thanks

If a tip isn't in the budget this time, a short Google review that mentions your dog by name is one of the best gifts a small local business can get. It helps other Bay Area dog owners find a groomer they can trust.

Curious what a groom costs for your dog's size? Our Bay Area price guide has every price, or you can book online in about 2 minutes.