People typically tip workers who don’t make a lot in hourly wages and rely on tips to get by (i. e. servers, bellhops), or service-based workers who perform a task you can’t do on your own (i. e. hairstylists, bartenders). Dog groomers fulfill both of these requirements, so it makes sense that you’d tip.

You can use a standard tip calculator to determine how much you should give based on the total bill.

You can give the groomer $10-15 if the session was fast and it wasn’t particularly expensive if you want to stick to the 15-20% guidance. If it was a 2+ hour session that cost over $100-150, aim to stick to the 15-20% guidance.

In other words, if your average session with the groomer costs $100, consider giving them a $100 tip for the holidays. You can always get your groomer a gift if you don’t want to give them a cash tip. A gift card or a nice bottle of wine surely won’t go unappreciated. [6] X Research source

Ask what’s included in the grooming session ahead of time so that you know precisely what you’re paying for. That way, you can figure out if the groomer did go above and beyond.

If you aren’t sure how your dog behaves with the groomer, just ask! When you come back to pay, you might say, “How was my boy? Did he sit still for you?”

Breeds with crazy coats, like Komondors, Pulis, and Afghan hounds are typically very time consuming for groomers and warrant a larger tip if you can swing it. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source If you’re doing any kind of special cut because you’re showing your dog, consider an additional tip.

If you know your dog has a tendency to scratch or nip, mention it ahead of time when you’re taking your dog in to be groomed.

If you want to tip 5% or something like that for a quick trim, it’s totally okay.

You may still want to tip if you get the vibe that the groomer really gave it their best effort, they’re new, or extremely apologetic.