GroomQuoteGrooming an anxious or difficult dog
Temperament changes how long an appointment takes and how much handling risk a groomer takes on, which is why it shows up as a real line item on an estimate, not a judgment about the dog.
Calm
No added costRelaxed and easy on the table. These appointments run at a normal pace with no extra handling needed.
Average
No added costSome wiggling or fidgeting, nothing that changes how the appointment is run.
Difficult
+$16 typicalAnxious, reactive, fearful, or in physical discomfort (common in senior dogs with joint pain). These dogs need more frequent breaks, slower handling, and sometimes a second groomer for safety, which is real added time and higher handling risk, not judgment about the dog.
Making grooming easier over time
Starting grooming routines young, keeping sessions short and positive, using treats, and sticking with the same groomer visit to visit all help a dog build a track record of calm appointments. For dogs who are already anxious or reactive, tell your groomer ahead of time; many can plan extra time or a calmer time slot rather than being surprised mid-appointment.
Frequently asked questions
How much more does grooming cost for an anxious or difficult dog?+
Difficult temperament typically adds $16 to the base price, to account for the extra time, slower handling, and sometimes a second groomer needed for safety. Calm and average temperaments don't add anything extra.
Will my groomer judge my dog for being difficult to handle?+
No - a difficult rating covers anxious, reactive, or fearful dogs, or dogs in physical discomfort (common in seniors with joint pain). It reflects the real extra time and handling risk involved, not a judgment about the dog.
How can I make grooming easier for an anxious dog over time?+
Starting grooming routines young, keeping sessions short and positive, using treats, and sticking with the same groomer visit to visit all help build a track record of calmer appointments. Telling your groomer ahead of time also lets them plan extra time or a calmer time slot instead of being surprised mid-appointment.