Dog grooming prices in Ontario are all over the map, and most salons won’t publish them — which makes budgeting frustrating. As a Mississauga salon, PawBasic can at least explain how pricing actually works, what typical ranges look like in 2026, and what changes the number.
Typical Ontario Grooming Price Ranges in 2026
Across the GTA, a bath-and-tidy for a small dog generally runs $50–$80, full grooms for small breeds $70–$110, medium breeds $90–$140, and large or double-coated breeds $120–$200+. Cats typically run $90–$160 depending on service and temperament. Mobile grooming and downtown Toronto prices trend higher.
The Five Things That Move the Price
Size — more dog, more time. Coat type — a Doodle full groom is hours of skilled scissor work; a Beagle bath is not. Coat condition — matting adds time and is usually billed as de-matting. Behaviour — a dog who needs breaks and patience takes longer (and deserves it). Service level — bath and tidy vs full haircut vs breed-specific styling.
Why the Cheapest Quote Is Rarely the Best Deal
Very low prices usually mean volume grooming: more dogs per groomer per day, less individual attention, faster turnarounds. Nothing sinister — but anxious dogs, seniors, and matted coats don’t do well on an assembly line. Ask any salon: how many dogs does one groomer handle per day?
How to Get an Accurate Quote
Tell the salon four things: breed, weight, coat condition (be honest about mats), and what you want done. Photos help. Any salon that quotes without asking these is guessing.
FAQs
Do groomers charge extra for matted dogs?
Almost always, because de-matting is slow, careful work. Regular scheduling is the way to avoid the fee entirely.
Should I tip my dog groomer?
It’s appreciated but never required — 10–20% is common in Ontario.
Why do Doodles cost more to groom?
Their coats combine poodle curl with retriever density — the most labour-intensive coat in the salon.
Get a Real Quote in Mississauga
PawBasic is at 35 King St E, Unit 12 in Cooksville. Call (647) 646-4729 with your dog’s details or book online — we’ll tell you exactly what to expect before you commit.