$15 Off your
first groom
Sign up for our loyalty program and receive a $15 off coupon redeemable towards your first service.
Voted Miami’s Best Groomers by The Miami New Times®
Winner of ‘Best of Miami-Dade’ by The Miami Herald®
Why Professional Grooming Matters for Health
Many owners assume grooming is just for vanity. They think it is only about making Fluffy look like a show dog. This is a misconception.
Regular grooming maintains physical health. A dirty coat traps bacteria. Long nails change a dog’s gait and cause joint pain. Dirty ears lead to painful yeast infections.
Professional groomers do more than cut hair. They inspect your dog from nose to tail. They often find lumps, bumps, or skin irritations that owners miss. Think of your groomer as an early warning system for your vet.
Consistent grooming also helps with socialization. Dogs learn to tolerate handling. They get used to loud noises and new environments. This makes vet visits and future grooming appointments much less stressful.
How to Prepare Your Pet at Home
Preparation starts long before the car ride. You cannot expect a dog to sit still for a stranger if they cannot sit still for you. You can reduce anxiety by simulating the grooming experience at home.
Practice Handling Daily
Groomers must touch every part of your dog. They handle paws, lift tails, and look inside ears. Many dogs have “do not touch” zones. You need to change that.
Spend a few minutes daily touching your dog’s paws. Rub their ears. Lift their tail gently. If they pull away, stop and try again later. Reward them with treats when they let you touch these sensitive areas. This desensitizes them to human touch.
Introduce Grooming Tools
The grooming salon is loud. High-velocity dryers and electric clippers make strange noises. These sounds frighten unprepared dogs.
Introduce these sounds at home. Turn on a hairdryer in the same room as your dog while feeding them treats. Don’t blow the air on them yet. Just let them associate the noise with food.
Show them a brush. Let them sniff it. Run it gently over their back. If you have an electric toothbrush, turn it on near them. The vibration mimics the sound and feel of clippers.
The Morning of the Appointment
On the big day, you want a calm dog. A tired dog is a good dog.
Take your pet for a long walk before the appointment. Let them sniff. Let them run. Burn off that excess energy. A dog with pent-up energy is jittery and harder to groom.
Ensure they have a potty break immediately before you enter the salon. Accidents happen, but an empty bladder makes the process cleaner and more comfortable for everyone.
Meal Timing matters. Do not feed your pet a heavy meal right before the visit. Grooming involves movement and sometimes nervousness. A full stomach can lead to nausea or digestive upset. Feed them several hours beforehand.
Documents and Items You Must Bring
Every grooming salon has different policies. However, most professional facilities operate with strict safety protocols. You need to arrive prepared.
Vaccination Records
Safety comes first. Reputable salons require proof of vaccination. This protects your pet and other dogs in the facility.
You typically need proof of:
- Rabies: This is non-negotiable in most states.
- DAPP/Distemper: Protects against highly contagious viruses.
- Bordetella: Often required for facilities that allow dogs to interact.
A Note on Dogtown’s Policy: At Dogtown, we simplify this. If your dog is coming only for grooming, we do not require physical proof of vaccinations. However, if your dog will be joining our daycare or boarding programs (even for a few hours of play), you must provide proof of Rabies, DAPP, and Bordetella.
Contact and Health History
Do not rely on your memory. Write down your vet’s contact information.
Be ready to disclose your pet’s medical history. Does your dog have arthritis? The groomer needs to know so they can handle legs gently. Do they have seizures? Heart conditions? Skin allergies?
Transparency is key. If your dog has bitten a groomer before, say so. It does not mean they will be turned away. It means the groomer will take extra safety precautions.
What to Leave at Home
You might think bringing Fido’s favorite blanket or squeaky toy will help. Usually, it does not.
Personal items get lost. They get dirty. Worse, they can trigger resource guarding. A dog that is usually friendly might snap if another dog approaches their favorite toy.
At Dogtown, we ask that you do not bring leashes, bowls, toys, treats, beds, or blankets. We provide luxury bedding, bowls, and toys. We keep the environment neutral to prevent aggression.
The Consultation Process
The drop-off is not just a hand-off. It is a consultation. This is your time to set expectations.
Questions the Groomer Will Ask
A professional groomer will interview you. They might ask:
- “How long has it been since the last groom?”
- “Does your dog have any sensitive spots?”
- “What is your lifestyle?” (Active dogs might need shorter cuts).
- “How much time do you spend brushing at home?”
Answer honestly. If you say you brush daily, but the dog is matted, the groomer will know immediately. Honesty helps them choose the right products and techniques.
Communicating Your Style Preferences
“Puppy Cut” means different things to different people. To one groomer, it means “shave it all off.” To another, it means “leave it fluffy.”
Be specific. Use measurements. Say, “I want one inch left on the body.” Even better, bring pictures. Show the groomer exactly what you want.
Discuss the face. Do you want a “Teddy Bear” head? Do you want a clean-shaven face (poodle style)? Do you want the eyelashes left long?
The Health Check
Before you leave, the groomer will do a “nose-to-tail” assessment. They check the coat’s condition. They look for fleas or ticks.
They will identify “matting.” Matting is not just tangles. It is pelted fur that pulls tight against the skin. If your dog is matted, the groomer may refuse to brush it out. Brushing severe mats is painful and damages the skin. They will likely recommend shaving the matting out to start fresh. This is the humane choice.
The Grooming Steps Detailed
Once you leave, the real work begins. The grooming process follows a systematic flow designed for efficiency and comfort.
Step 1: The Bath
This is not a garden hose bath. Groomers use professional tubs with temperature-controlled water.
They select shampoos based on your dog’s coat. They might use:
- Oatmeal Shampoo: For sensitive or itchy skin.
- Hypoallergenic Shampoo: For dogs with allergies.
- De-shedding Shampoo: To loosen undercoat.
- Flea/Tick Treatment: If parasites are found (often an extra charge).
They scrub deep to remove dirt, oil, and environmental allergens.
Step 2: The Drying Process
Drying is critical. A damp dog is a smelly dog.
Groomers use high-velocity dryers. These powerful blowers blast water away from the skin. They also blow out loose undercoat and straighten curly hair for a better cut.
Most groomers also use “fluff drying.” They brush the coat while drying it to create volume.
Safety Note: Good groomers avoid heated cage dryers that can overheat pets. At Dogtown, we prioritize hand drying and safe airflow.
Step 3: Brushing and Combing
The groomer must remove every tangle before cutting. Scissors catch on tangles.
They use different brushes for different coats. Slicker brushes remove loose hair. Metal combs check for hidden mats close to the skin.
The Dematting Policy: At Dogtown, we do not offer extensive dematting services. We believe it is an extremely painful process for the dog. If a coat is severely matted, we will recommend a shave-down. We prioritize your dog’s comfort over a specific cosmetic look.
Step 4: The Haircut
This is where the artistry happens.
- Clippers: Used for the body to establish uniform length.
- Scissoring: Used for the face, feet, and tail for precision and style.
- Sanitary Trim: Shaving the hair around the belly and rear end to keep the dog clean when they go to the bathroom.
- Paw Pads: Shaving hair between the pads to prevent slipping and trapped dirt.
Step 5: The Finishing Touches
Grooming includes essential hygiene tasks.
- Nail Trimming: Groomers clip or grind the nails. Short nails prevent splaying of the foot.
- Ear Cleaning: They remove wax and debris to prevent infection.
- Anal Gland Expression: Many groomers perform this externally to relieve discomfort.
Pricing and Tipping Etiquette
Grooming costs vary based on size, breed, and coat condition.
At Dogtown, we offer transparent pricing tiers.
- Small Dogs (Short Hair): Breeds like Chihuahuas start around $75-85.
- Medium/Large (Thick Coats): Breeds like Golden Retrievers or Doodles range from $90 to $160.
- Standard Poodles: These require extensive hand-scissoring and often cost $120+.
Add-ons increase the price. Teeth brushing, de-shedding treatments, or medicated shampoos are extra services.
Should You Tip?
Yes. Grooming is a skilled trade and a physical labor service. Tipping is customary in the U.S.
- Standard Tip: 15-20% of the bill.
- Difficult Dog Tip: If you know your dog is difficult, aggressive, or severely matted, a higher tip (20-25%) shows appreciation for the extra effort.
Pickup and Post-Groom Behavior
The groomer will call or text when your pet is ready. Do not show up early. If your dog sees you, they will get excited and wiggle, making it dangerous to finish the haircut.
The Feedback Loop
When you pick up your pet, ask questions.
- “How did they behave?”
- “Did you find any skin issues?”
- “How can I maintain this at home?”
The groomer will give you a report. Listen to them. If they say the dog needs more brushing, take that advice.
The “Tired Dog” Syndrome
Your dog will likely be exhausted. Grooming is mentally and physically stimulating. They have been standing, being handled, and processing new sounds for 2-4 hours.
Do not be alarmed if they sleep for the rest of the day. This is normal.
You might notice they feel “naked” or act a bit strange if they had a lot of hair removed. They are just adjusting to the new sensation of air on their skin.
Give them plenty of water and a potty break as soon as you leave.
Hear it From Our Happy Customers
See what local pet owners are saying about their experiences. Our community loves the transparency, care, and daily updates we provide.
-
Rocky loves coming here! Love their grooming services
Carmel P.
February 16, 2024Professional and courteous staff… and the groomer gave my pup the perfect cut!
Andrea M.
May 1, 2023We love Dogtown -Coconut Grove! Everyone is super friendly, communicative and I love how all of the dogs are out of cages just roaming around. The best part for our family are the Daily Dog Diaries with their pictures and details of our dogs day!! Makes us feel better while we're away! I highly recommend Dogtown in the Grove!
Tandis S.
August 29, 2023 -
If you’re not letting Dogtown care for your pup when needed, you’re doing it wrong. The staff is super friendly and Boomer loves spending time there. He told me so. I love the updates I get with photos while I’m gone. Dogtown is simply the best!
WAYNE M.
November 15, 2020My pup Duncan had a great time at Daycare at Dogtown...he now goes once a week. the staff is friendly and the location is great. Two thumbs up!
Christa G.
February 25, 2022I have been grooming my dog at the CC facility for years. They always do a great job!
Mimi W.
August 25, 2022 -
We’ve been taking our Westie to Dogtown for grooming since it came to Coconut Grove. He always looks great when we pick him up, and all the staff is friendly and helpful. It’s a wonderful place for your pet!
Anne m.
October 24, 2024First stay for my dog here. She is a senior and very shy and a little anxious. She was happy and relaxed at pick up, and looked so pretty after her bath. We will be back.
Stefania A.
August 29, 20235 star hotel experience! Loving, safe and fun stay! He loved their treats and walks thru the Grove! We loved receiving the diary with pictures and updates every evening! Thank you Dog Town!
Mary D.
February 16, 2024 -
Our dog loves it here! Dogtown staff is friendly responsible and takes great care. Highly recommend
Mandy C.
August 29, 2023We love everything about Dogtown. The place is perfectly cleaned, the location is very convenient for me, the staff is very professional and they are so patient with all my questions! But the most important part is they're the sweetest to Sebas and that’s everything!! I take him there for grooming and day care and Im always impressed by the service. Thank you all, you guys are the best!
Janeth R.
February 25, 2022So easy to get in at the last minute! Zeus loved the pampering! Highly recommend!
Jorge M.
August 29, 2023 -
Louie had a geat experience getting his bath at Dogtown. Looking forwards for his first hair cut . The stuff is very professional and nice.
Sara L.
February 25, 2022Great hours. Take great care of our beloved Apollo. He comes home tired but happy. We couldn't be happier as a new family to Miami
David P.
July 10, 2020there is no place i would rather leave my baby. it was my first time away from my dog and they absolutely cured that anxiety. they let me know everyday how she was doing with pictures of her and her new dog friends. i know she was happy to be back home but im sure she missed her dog friends a whole lot. thank you guys for everything i'll forever be thankful for the entire dogtown team.
Marcela F.
January 25, 2023 -
Fantastic place. My dogs always Léa e better they enter. Totally recommend
Guilherme T.
August 29, 2023recommend for all dog owners
Longji L.
January 1, 1970Our pup stay with Dogtown in Coconut Grove overnight during our wedding weekend and had a blast, we love the open concept they have for their play area where they can also go hangout with the humans working the front desk. All the pups look ...
Adriana S.
July 24, 2024 -
Angelica and the staff at Downtown Coconut Grove are amazing. My Brussels Griffon baby is always gorgeous and they don’t keep her too long. Highly recommend!
Vanessa P.
February 16, 2024Yami and frankie were very nice and attentive. Thank you
Paola D.
March 30, 2026I boarded my dog Justice there for 5 days and was so happy with the experience. The staff updates you daily by sending photographs and updates on what my baby did during the day. It definitely gave me peace of mind knowing he was in good hands. I’ve used Dog town before for grooming, but after this boarding experience, I have already booked my dog’s next boarding for the holidays. Highly recommend!
Carolle E.
November 25, 2022 -
Great experience at Dogtown Coconut Grove. We left our little staffy for the first time ever at their daycare and then for a night stay. He loved it! He went right away to the other dogs and came back with a full belly, happy and exhausted from playing with the other dogs. The staff was very nice and answered all of our questions. For the night stay, they updated us whenever he ate, went for a walk as well as uploading pictures in the customer portal to see how he was doing and interacting with the other dogs. We will definitely be coming back and I recommend this place to any one who needs a doggy day care.
Valeria B.
March 19, 2023Amazing service. Everyone is very helpful. I called last minute and I was able to get an appointment. Grooming was beautiful and my dog always comes back happy.
Paola O.
November 22, 2023I took my dog to get groomed. Very happy with the cut and overall customer service (friendly and punctual). Thanks, Dogtown!
Celine L.
September 25, 2022 -
We always leave our Floki at Dogtown for daycare, bath and/or boarding (mostly in the Grove) and he always has a great time. The team is attentive, transparent, supportive and always keeps us up to date. Highly recommend!
Mariana M.
May 16, 2024They are the best! Bianca knows how to cut hair!
Craig P.
December 5, 2025We have been coming here for over 10 years, Bianca and Angelica are amazing! Super professionals and friendly. We have recommend friends and family. Thank you for taking care of Bobbie and Chloe So well.
Ralf H.
October 24, 2024 -
My one year old beagle stayed in daycare at Dogtown in Coconut Grove. They were very responsible to get all the vaccinations records prior to our day. When we arrived they welcome us and our dog in a friendly way. Also, the answered all our questions and made us feel comfortable. Our beagle had a great day. They sent us two pictures of her with a little text saying how she was doing. When we went to pick her up, they gave us a written report of her day. We are happy with their service.
Jenny A.
February 25, 2022I love this place and so do my dogs! We have boarded our dogs here several times, when we come to Miami to visit family. The online booking is so easy, the space is clean!! Happy dogs, mean Happy dog parents :-)
FLORIDA G.
August 29, 2023Great facility. Staff very kind and wonderful with our pets. Bella loved her belly rubs
Jo W.
December 24, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, a full groom takes between 2 to 4 hours. This depends on the size of the dog, the condition of the coat, and the dog’s temperament. We take our time to ensure safety. We will call you as soon as your pup is ready.
For safety reasons, we do not allow owners in the grooming area. When dogs see their owners, they get excited and move around. This makes it dangerous for us to use sharp scissors and clippers. You can view our facility through the window in our retail area or check our Instagram for behind-the-scenes looks.
We do not offer dematting services. Pulling out tight mats is extremely painful and damages the skin. It is inhumane. If your dog is matted, we will recommend shaving the coat short to allow healthy hair to grow back.
No, we use high-quality natural and organic products. However, if your vet has prescribed a specific medicated shampoo for a skin condition, please bring it with you, and we will happily use it.
We recommend starting as soon as they have their vaccinations, usually around 12-16 weeks. The earlier you start, the better. We focus on positive reinforcement for puppies to get them used to the sights and sounds.
Why We Are Your Best Choice in Miami
You have options when searching for a “dog groomer near me.” But not all salons are created equal.
At Dogtown, we do things differently. We are an award-winning facility in Coconut Grove. We don’t believe in cages. We believe in comfort.
We use natural and organic products because we care about what goes on your dog’s skin. Our certified groomers are voted the best in Miami for a reason: they combine skill with genuine love for animals.
We offer more than just a haircut.
- Free-Roaming Environment: Your dog isn’t stuck in a crate waiting for their turn.
- Daycare Integration: Bring your dog’s vaccination records, and they can enjoy our daycare for a discounted rate ($27.50) while they wait.
- Loyalty Program: Earn points for every dollar you spend. Get rewards like $100 off or free teeth brushing upgrades.
We treat your pet like our own. We prioritize safety, hygiene, and happiness.
If you are ready to experience the Dogtown difference, book your reservation today. Your dog deserves the best.