What Would You Do?!

Happy Friday Daily Groomers!

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Today we’re going to play a game called “what would you do?”

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We scanned some of the top posts across groomer communities and forums to put you through some of the most common (and frustrating!) scenarios groomers face in their day-to-day work.

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From that client who insists on haggling prices to the never-ending debate about doodles and their demanding owners, we’ve gathered the real questions—and real solutions—straight from your fellow groomers!

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In this edition, you’ll learn how fellow groomers handle sticky situations, keep their clients happy, and stay sane (and solvent!) in an ever-evolving industry.

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Ready to explore each dilemma and ask yourself, “What would I do?”

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Let’s dive in!

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1. The Bargaining Client

Scenario: You’ve just quoted a brand-new client $120 total ($60 per small dog) for two dogs. After confirming the booking, the client messages you to see if you’ll accept $100 instead, citing “times are tough.” You know multiple dogs mean extra baths, brushing, and grooming time. If you say “yes,” you risk being seen as flexible on price. If you say “no,” you risk losing them altogether.

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What would you do??

Say yes... it's worth the 2 dog client

Say no... it's not worth it in the long run

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Most Stand Firm: Many groomers say once you lower your rate for one person, word spreads fast that you’re willing to negotiate. They worry about being viewed as a discount option or unprofessional.

• Comparisons to Other Industries: Several members compare grooming to hair stylists, mechanics, or doctors—professionals who don’t typically allow haggling. This reminder can help you frame your firm stance with clients.

• Communication Tools: Some groomers share a mini “pricing breakdown” to show the various steps (clipping, sanitary trim, nail filing, ear cleaning, etc.). Others politely respond with a simple, “I’m sorry, but my rates are non-negotiable.”

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Main Takeaway

‍Saying “no” when you’ve already quoted a fair rate protects your standards. Undercharging for double the work isn’t sustainable, and a polite, professional boundary maintains your worth.

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2. The Accidental Ear Nick

Scenario: You’re nearly done grooming a wiggly Shih Tzu when it jerks its head—and you accidentally nick the tip of its ear. Blood starts streaming more than you anticipated. You manage to stop it, but the owner is visibly upset. You consider comping the groom or offering to cover possible vet bills. You also wonder: should you check in later? Are you setting a precedent for freebies if minor mishaps occur again? What would you do?

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What would you do?

Comp the groom

Comp the groom and cover the vet bill

Just say sorry... this stuff happens

Other

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Immediate First Aid & Full Transparency: Groomers emphasize calmly explaining the situation right away, showing exactly how you cleaned and dressed the wound. One groomer mentioned “applying pressure with gauze for several minutes” to slow bleeding.

• Waiving the Fee: Many see waiving (or discounting) the groom as a goodwill gesture that reassures the owner you take responsibility. Community members mention “feeling terrible” but also highlight the importance of “owning the mistake.”

• Follow-Up Counts: Several groomers said they called or texted the next day to check on the dog’s ear. This small act can solidify client trust, showing genuine concern beyond just the appointment.

• Learning Opportunity: Some note that repeated ear nicks suggest you may need to refine your scissoring technique or slow down, especially around sensitive areas.

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Main Takeaway

‍Transparency and prompt care can preserve trust. Handling it with honesty and empathy—often waiving the groom fee—shows professionalism and respect for the pet’s well-being.

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3. The King Shepherd Conundrum

Scenario: An 8-month-old King Shepherd (90+ lbs) arrives for a “full groom and trim.” The owner insists it should cost no more than a small-dog groom and claims “it’s just a puppy.” Meanwhile, you know a large double-coated breed can take twice (or thrice) as long in the tub, on the table, and with drying. The owner only wants to pay $60, but your usual rate is $120+. What would you do?

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What would you do?

Go down to the $60

Stick firm at the $120

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Big Dog, Big Effort: Groomers note you’ll use double or triple the shampoo, spend extra time blow-drying, and endure more physical strain. One groomer said, “If I can do two or three small dogs in the time it takes me to finish a giant Shepherd, I’m losing money accepting $60.”

• Explain the Steps: Many suggest walking owners through the entire grooming process—bathing, brushing out undercoat, tidying sanitary areas, nail trim, ear cleaning, scissoring or de-shedding—to illustrate why it costs more.

• Willingness to Lose the Client: If the owner remains stubborn, several groomers say they’d rather let them walk. One noted: “Undervaluing your labor leads to physical burnout—don’t let clients set your rates.”

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Main Takeaway

‍Grooming large, double-coated dogs demands more resources. Charging appropriately ensures you don’t undervalue your time or compromise your health just to appease a client.

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4. Vaccine Requirements & Agreements

Scenario: A new client books for tomorrow, but they haven’t sent proof of rabies vaccination or signed your salon agreement. They say their old groomer “never bothered with that,” and promise to bring a rabies certificate at drop-off. You don’t want to turn away business, but you also prioritize safety and liability concerns. What would you do?

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What would you do?

No thank you... it's not worth the liability

All good, sometimes that happens

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Strict “No Records, No Groom” Policy: Many groomers won’t allow an appointment to proceed without evidence of current rabies (and sometimes distemper/bordetella) to protect all parties.

• Legal Requirements & Insurance: Some members reference how they could be legally liable or risk losing insurance coverage if an unvaccinated dog bites someone. Others recall having to quarantine dogs or close their shop for deep cleaning during outbreaks.

• Using Technology & Reminders: Several encourage sending automated emails/texts stating that official proof must be received at least 24 hours before the appointment. They mention having an easy upload link or email to streamline the process.

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Main Takeaway

‍Protecting your salon and other pets is paramount. Requiring vaccination records before grooming is both a legal safeguard and a professional standard that ensures everyone’s well-being.

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5. The “Fat Fee” Debate

Scenario: An elderly, obese Labrador mix comes in panting heavily, struggling to stand. You need extra time, assistance, and possibly a bather or second groomer to help you. The owner seems offended when you bring up an additional charge for special handling. What would you do?

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What would you do?

Oof... I'm definitely charging more

Eh, I've had those months 😂. It's all good!

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Tiered Pricing or a Handling Fee: Groomers overwhelmingly mention charging more for bigger or less mobile dogs. One user said, “If I have to roll them around on the floor or lift them in/out of a tub, it’s extra.”

• Diplomatic Wording: Instead of calling it an “obesity fee,” many call it a “special handling” or “extra time” charge. “I explain to owners we’re not judging their dog—we’re just accounting for the extra work and longer groom times,” one groomer says.

• Health & Safety: Several note the importance of preventing injuries—“both mine and the dog’s.” Tools like belly bands or a supportive harness can help, but they also add more grooming time.

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Main Takeaway

‍When a dog requires more labor and care, it’s fair to charge more. Labeling it as “special handling” or “extra time” clarifies that it’s about the grooming process, not shaming the pet.

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6. Commission When You Have a Bather

Scenario: You’ve been getting a 50% commission on all your grooms, but now the salon owner has hired a bather. The bather handles everything from bathing to nails to blow-drying. The owner wants to drop your commission to 40% to offset that hourly wage. You appreciate the help but worry about losing hard-earned income. What would you do?

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What would you do?

Say something about it... you earned it

Keep your head down and work harder

Start searching for a new job

Other

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Fair Split for All: Groomers often acknowledge that a good bather can significantly reduce their workload and speed up finishing times. Some say “I’d rather do more dogs at a slightly lower commission if my prep is taken care of.”

• Tip-Sharing: Many recommend tipping out or sharing a portion of daily tips with the bather. Some do it per dog (“$5 for small, $10 for big dogs they bathe”) or a percentage of total tips.

• Owner Overhead & Negotiation: Owners must also cover rent, utilities, supplies, and taxes. Some groomers find a middle ground at 45% or insist that the owner provide them with a guaranteed base if volume drops.

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Main Takeaway

‍Balancing groomer pay with bather wages requires an honest dialogue. A well-structured plan—maybe 45% for the groomer, hourly pay for the bather—can keep everyone motivated and fairly compensated.

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7. Considering a “No Doodles” Policy

Scenario: Doodles (Golden, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, etc.) are dominating your schedule. Many arrive matted or untrained, and owners often push for “fluffy” looks without brushing at home. You’re exhausted and tempted to ban doodles entirely. But you worry about lost income and social media backlash. What would you do?

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What would you do...

It's time... goodbye doodle clients

I'm tired... no more new doodles

I'm a doodle LOVER

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What Fellow Groomers Think...

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• Selective Acceptance: Some groomers limit doodles by requiring they come every 4–6 weeks, or by charging a high base rate to weed out those who won’t pay. “If they balk at $120+, they can find someone else,” notes one groomer.

• Weight & Breed Restrictions: Another approach is to set a maximum weight limit or simply say “no new large doodles” while keeping well-behaved existing clients.

• Mental Health Considerations: Many mention how doodle-heavy workloads cause early burnout. “It’s not worth injuring myself daily,” says one user.

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Main Takeaway

If doodles cause disproportionate stress and physical strain, you have every right to decline them or implement policies (weight caps, premium pricing). Your body and mental well-being come first.

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Grooming is much more than just scissors and soap—it’s a daily balance of skill, empathy, safety, and solid business sense.

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Each of these scenarios highlights real-world dilemmas, from haggling clients and breed-specific bans to commission questions and burnout.

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There’s no universal “right” answer because every groomer’s situation is unique: local market, personal values, and financial needs all play a role. However, the collective wisdom of our community proves you can say “no” when necessary, enforce vaccine rules, charge appropriately for extra work, negotiate fair pay structures, and pivot your career if needed—all while preserving your well-being.

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Above all, remember you’re not alone—many groomers have navigated these same challenges and emerged stronger.

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So, when you find yourself at a crossroads, ask: What would you do?

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Then, keep grooming with passion and purpose.

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For the love of grooming,

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Alex 🐶

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✋Stop right there

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‼️ Don’t forget - We have a workshop for business owners coming up. If you’re looking to grow your business, I promise you it will be worth the time!!

Save your spot for the free zoom workshop here