Do You Tip a Dog Groomer Who Owns the Business?

Standing at the dog groomer’s counter, leash in one hand, wallet in the other—ever wondered if you should slap down a tip when the person holding the shears owns the place? You’re not alone. People get mixed signals on this, especially with hair stylists or baristas, but dog groomers feel even trickier since you probably see them less often and trust them with your best friend.

If you look online or ask three different dog owners, you’ll get at least three answers. But here’s the reality: tipping business owners isn’t a must, but it’s always appreciated, and it’s pretty common these days in dog grooming. Even owners are often paid for their work the same way employees are—rich groomers are a myth. If the owner spent an hour wrestling the stink off your golden retriever or trimming impossible matted poodle hair, a tip says thank you in a way words don't.

But what’s the right move? Does it change if the owner worked magic and squeezed you in last minute? Should you tip based on the total price or effort? There’s more to the story than you might think, and just understanding the small stuff—like a handwritten thank you or a Starbucks coffee—can make all the difference to that local shop owner trimming your pup’s nails.

• Why Tipping a Business Owner Feels Awkward
• What Dog Groomers Expect (Even When They’re the Boss)
• How Much Should You Tip Your Groomer?
• Little Extras That Matter More Than the Tip

Why Tipping a Business Owner Feels Awkward

It’s weird, isn’t it? The person behind the clippers owns the business, so tipping them almost feels like tossing a bonus straight into their pocket. You might figure, “Aren’t they already making most of the money?” This is probably the biggest reason people struggle to tip a dog groomer who’s the boss. No one wants to look silly or break some unwritten rule.

Here’s the actual scoop: a lot of small business owners—especially groomers—barely break even after rent, supplies, taxes, insurance, and paying their staff. A 2023 survey by PetGroomer.com showed that more than half of grooming business owners pay themselves the same or less than their employees. Most pet groomers don’t rake in big cash; it’s usually about passion, not profit.

There’s also that old-school idea that you’re not “supposed” to tip an owner, but things have changed. Society tips for all kinds of services these days. Dog grooming is tough, messy labor, and if the owner rolled up their sleeves instead of just assigning your dog to someone else, the lines between ‘boss’ and ‘worker’ blur fast.

So, if giving a tip feels awkward, you’re not imagining things. But you wouldn’t think twice about tipping a dog groomer who doesn’t own the shop, right? The difference really comes down to perception, not logic. That’s why most owners won’t ever expect a tip—but will remember it, especially on busy days or after a tricky grooming job. If you’ve ever doubted yourself in these moments, you’re far from alone.

What Dog Groomers Expect (Even When They’re the Boss)

Here’s the thing: Most dog groomers, even those with their name on the door, work long hours and put the same sweat into each appointment as their staff—sometimes more. Owning a grooming business sounds great, but it usually just means more responsibility, not more cash. They pay rent, buy supplies, and handle all the booking headaches. So, if you tip, it actually means a lot.

Truth is, tipping your dog groomer—even the owner—has become pretty standard. According to a 2024 Pet Industry Survey, about 68% of pet owners said they tip their groomer "most of the time," and 45% said they try to tip every visit, owner or not. While there’s no rule that says you have to tip a business owner, a good chunk of regulars do, just because they see the hard work up close and personal.

If you’re wondering what owners themselves think, most will tell you they don’t expect a tip, but they never forget the folks who do. A tip isn’t just extra money—it’s also a sign you notice their effort with your dog, especially if you’ve got a handful like my Finnian (who acts like nail trims are a horror film!). It’s kind of like showing up with coffee for your barber. You’re saying, “I appreciate how much you care about my pet.”

Here’s how expectations usually shake out among dog groomers:

• If you’re a repeat client, a tip creates goodwill and sometimes gets you a little extra attention in the future (like last-minute openings).
• During busy times (think holidays or muddy spring days), a tip stands out and helps you be remembered.
• Some business owners share tips with their team—so you might be helping out the person who bathed, dried, or clipped nails even if they’re not the face you see at checkout.

Check out this quick snapshot from that 2024 survey to see what other pet owners are actually doing:

So, while nobody’s going to kick you out if you skip the tip, most groomers—even the bosses—notice when you give a little extra. And in a world where everyone remembers the nice client, why not make it you?

How Much Should You Tip Your Groomer?

For most folks, tipping your dog groomer somewhere between 15% and 20% of the service price is solid. It’s similar to what you’d give your own barber or stylist. Owners who groom your dog still put in the same work, and a tip is a big way to show you notice their extra effort.

Want to see what your tip looks like in dollars? Here’s a quick-and-dirty table for common grooming service prices:

If your dog was a total handful—think major matting, a big mess, or last-minute scheduling—rounding up that tip or tossing in a few extra bucks is always appreciated. When Finnian was little and spilled paint all over the dog, I tipped extra for that rescue job. The groomer definitely deserved it.

Some places include tips in the bill or tack on a service fee, though. Always check so you’re not double-tipping unless you want to. If the owner flat-out refuses tips, don’t push it, but a thank you card or glowing online review goes a long way.

• 15%-20%: Standard tip for good service
• 20% or more: For above-and-beyond effort
• Extra: For emergencies, squeezing you in, or seriously tough jobs

Skip the guilt if you’re short on cash. A small tip is better than none, and groomers remember kindness—and regulars who treat them well.

Little Extras That Matter More Than the Tip

Let’s be honest, tossing a few bucks as a tip feels good, but there’s a bunch of other things you can do that’ll make your dog groomer way happier. Groomers—even those who own the shop—remember simple acts of kindness long after the cash is spent. I’ve chatted with plenty of pros and shop owners, and they all say the same thing: the little touchy stuff actually stands out more than the cash.

A simple thank-you note or even just a compliment about how great your dog looks actually goes a long way. Most groomers keep those thank-you cards pinned to their mirrors, seriously. It gives them a boost on tough days. Or, if you’re feeling extra, bring in a coffee or snack—almost every groomer is fueled by caffeine! My own guy Finnian once colored a quick drawing for our groomer, and she taped it on the wall right next to her price list. Little stuff like that makes their whole week.

If you want to show ongoing appreciation, here’s what actually makes a difference:

• Referring your friends (word of mouth is gold for small businesses)
• Leaving a detailed review online—don’t just give stars, write three sentences about how she handled your anxious beagle
• Bringing your pup in on time and picking up fast so the schedule stays on track
• Pre-booking your next appointment so they don’t get last-minute gaps
• Letting the groomer know if your dog has any special needs up front (helps avoid accidents and saves time)

Groomers report that over half of new clients come from personal referrals, not ads. Check out this quick breakdown from a PetGroomer.com business survey:

So, while a tip is always nice, making a groomer’s day can be as simple as handing them a coffee, spreading good words about them, or just being a kind, regular person. If you do that, trust me—they’ll remember your dog’s name and treat them like a VIP every visit.