Why Shaving Your Dog Costs Just as Much as a Haircut (And Why It’s Worth Every Penny)
Here’s why shaving costs just as much (and sometimes even a little more!) than a traditional groom:
At
Primped Pooches Mobile Dog Spa, we hear it all the time:
"Wait, it's the same price to just shave my dog down? Isn’t that faster?"
We get it — it sounds like shaving would be easier than a full dogs haircut. But here’s the truth: whether your pup gets a fluffy teddy bear trim or a close shave, the work behind the groom is just as detailed, technical, and time-consuming. And trust us, your dog deserves the professional care that goes into every style, clipper to scissors.
Here’s why shaving costs just as much (and sometimes even a little more!) than a traditional groom:
1. Shaving is Precision Work — Not a Buzz Cut
Giving a dog a "shave down" isn’t like running clippers over your head. Dogs have sensitive skin, countless contours, and different coat types. Shaving requires careful technique to avoid razor burn, nicks, hot spots, or uneven patches.
One wrong move? Your dog could be uncomfortable or even injured. Our skilled groomers move slowly and intentionally to protect your pet’s skin every step of the way.
2. Prep Work is Still Mandatory
Before we can even think about shaving, your dog’s coat has to be thoroughly brushed out (even for a shave!). Mats and tangles can't simply be clipped over — they have to be worked through, loosened, or safely removed, or else the clippers will tug and hurt your dog.
And if your dog has matting close to the skin? That’s even more delicate, careful work — requiring patience, special tools, and a lot of experience.
3. Grooming Still Includes the Full Spa Experience
At Primped Pooches, whether you're asking for a stylish trim or a fresh start shave, your dog’s spa treatment is the same. That includes:
- Premium shampoo and conditioning
- Ear cleaning
- Nail trimming and filing
- Sanitary trim
- Paw pad and foot trim
- Anal gland check (by request)
- Post-bath brush out
- A final finish with top-quality clippers and equipment
You’re not just paying for the haircut — you’re paying for the entire professional grooming process.
4. Shaving Can Take Longer, Not Shorter
Sometimes, shaving a heavily coated or double-coated dog can actually take longer than styling a typical haircut. Heavy coats clog clippers, overheat blades, and require frequent blade changes and cleaning during the appointment.
Plus, we often have to go over the same area multiple times at different angles to get an even, smooth result without harming your pup’s skin.
5. Shaving Wears Down Grooming Equipment
Here’s something most pet parents don’t realize:
shaving actually causes significant wear and tear on our grooming blades and equipment.
Thick coats, dirty fur, and matted hair quickly dull expensive blades, requiring frequent sharpening or replacement — sometimes after just one or two heavy grooms. We also have to regularly cool and sanitize the blades during your dog’s appointment to prevent overheating and discomfort.
Maintaining top-tier, safe equipment isn’t cheap — but we invest in it because
your dog deserves nothing less than the best.
6. Your Dog’s Comfort Comes First
A rushed or inexperienced shave can lead to skin trauma, clipper rash, or long-term coat damage. At Primped Pooches, we slow down and prioritize your dog’s comfort and safety — no matter how simple the style might seem.
That extra care is a big part of why
our pricing reflects the level of attention your pet is guaranteed to receive.
The Bottom Line
A dog groom isn’t priced by how “simple” the haircut looks — it’s priced by the professional skill, careful handling, time, high-end tools, and quality of service your dog deserves.
Whether you want a dapper trim or a fresh shave, when you book with
Primped Pooches, you’re investing in more than just a haircut — you’re investing in your dog’s health, comfort, and happiness.
Ready to give your pup the full spa treatment? Book Now
