PetSmart Grooming Service

When you book a PetSmart grooming service, a professional dog grooming appointment offered at PetSmart stores across the U.S. and Canada, often used by pet owners seeking convenience and standardized care. Also known as in-store dog grooming, it’s a popular choice for busy pet parents who want a clean, well-groomed dog without hiring a mobile groomer or visiting a standalone salon. But here’s the thing — not all PetSmart groomers are the same. Some dogs come out looking like show pups. Others leave with uneven cuts, stressed-out nerves, or worse. Why? Because grooming speed often matters more than care at high-volume locations.

Most PetSmart grooming sessions take three to four hours, which matches what professional groomers say is needed to do a real job — bathing, drying, brushing, trimming, and cleaning ears and nails without rushing. But if your dog has a thick coat, matted fur, or anxiety, that time can stretch even longer. And while PetSmart offers package deals, they rarely tell you what’s actually included. Does the price cover a full cut or just a trim? Are they using human-grade shampoo or cheap bulk stuff? You’ll need to ask. And don’t assume the groomer knows your dog’s history. Most rotate staff daily, so your dog might get a different person each time.

That’s why many pet owners switch to local groomers or even DIY at home. A professional dog groomer, a trained specialist who works independently or in small shops, often with deeper experience and personalized attention. Also known as independent groomer, it might cost more per visit, but you get consistency, better communication, and fewer stress triggers for your dog. And if you’re tipping — and you should — dog grooming cost, the total price paid for a grooming session, which varies by breed, coat type, and location, typically ranging from $40 to $100. Also known as pet grooming price, it at PetSmart usually doesn’t include a tip, even though the job is hard, messy, and often involves dogs who bite, shake, or panic.

Here’s what most people don’t realize: PetSmart groomers are often paid hourly, not by the job. That means they’re pressured to move dogs through quickly. A $70 grooming session might take four hours, but the groomer might only make $18 an hour after deductions. That’s why you’ll see some dogs rushed, or worse — left waiting too long in kennels. If your dog has sensitive skin, anxiety, or a medical condition, PetSmart might not be the safest choice. Look for groomers who offer private rooms, quiet drying areas, and staff who ask about your dog’s behavior.

Still, PetSmart works for some. If you’ve got a short-haired pup, a calm temperament, and just need a basic bath and brush, it’s fine. Just go early, ask to see the grooming area, and don’t leave without checking the final result. Bring a treat. Say thank you. And if your dog comes home looking like a bad haircut, don’t just shrug — ask for a redo. You paid for a service, not a gamble.

Below, you’ll find real advice from dog owners and groomers on how to avoid bad experiences, what to expect during a grooming session, how much to tip, and when it’s smarter to skip PetSmart altogether. Whether you’re wondering why grooming takes so long, how to prepare your dog, or whether a harness is better than a collar for anxious pups — we’ve got the answers.