The standard tip for a dog groomer is 15-20% of the service cost. For mobile groomers who come to your home, 20-25% is appropriate since they bring all equipment and drive to you.
Tip 15-20% for salon groomers and 20-25% for mobile or house-call groomers. On a $75 groom, that's $11-15 for salon and $15-19 for mobile.
Dog grooming is physically demanding work. Groomers lift heavy dogs, stand for hours, work with sharp tools, and handle anxious or aggressive animals. Many groomers earn $15-25/hour before tips — tipping meaningfully impacts their income.
Mobile groomers deserve higher tips because they maintain a vehicle, buy fuel, carry all their own equipment, and drive to your location. Their overhead is higher than a salon groomer's.
$30-50 service → $5-10 tip. $50-75 service → $10-15 tip. $75-100 service → $15-20 tip. $100-150 service → $20-30 tip. $150+ service → $30+ tip.
Yes, it's still appreciated. While business owners set their own prices, tipping shows recognition of their personal service and skill.
While tipping isn't mandatory, groomers rely on tips as part of their income. Consistently not tipping may affect the priority or availability you receive for future bookings.
Cash is preferred by most groomers since they receive it immediately and in full. But tipping through a payment app or card is perfectly fine if you don't have cash.