Should grooming extras be included or priced separately?

An add-on earns a separate price when it gives the owner a genuine choice and creates distinct work. Splitting a normal groom into tiny charges makes the menu harder to understand without making it more honest.

Define the core promise first

Write one sentence for each main service. If “full groom” promises a clean, dry dog with nails checked and the agreed finish, those steps belong in the base price. The groomer shouldn't need a sales conversation to complete the service properly.

Work that nearly every booking receives is another clue. If an “extra” appears on most invoices, fix the starting price and include it.

Put real grooming extras through one test

Item	Usually include	Sometimes separate	Decline or refer when
Nails	Standard trim/check in core service	Standalone nail visit or extra support	Safe handling isn't possible
Ears	Routine external clean if promised	Distinct specialist work within competence	The condition needs veterinary care
Anal glands	Only if this is genuinely part of your service	Separate, clearly described service	Outside training, policy or local requirements
Teeth	Never imply a veterinary result	Cosmetic brushing with owner agreement	Pain, disease or unsafe handling is present
De-shed	Light work inside a normal bath	Substantial product and occupied time	Coat or dog can't safely tolerate the plan
Flea bath	Follow a disclosed shop policy	Separate product, cleaning and disruption cost	Product or health conditions make it unsuitable
Face, feet or hygiene tidy	Include where the named service promises it	Between-groom maintenance visit	The requested work becomes a different service

This isn't a universal service list. It is a way to make the boundary visible. Only offer work the business is trained, equipped and insured to perform.

Price the extra work, then book it

Cost the additional occupied time, product and support against the same hourly target as the core menu. A profitable-looking $25 de-shed add-on still fails if it adds 30 minutes to a booking that received no extra time.

Give each retained add-on a duration, plain result and price. Remove duplicates and options the team regularly forgets to deliver.

Use a small menu worksheet

• Core service promise:
• Step being considered:
• Can the client reasonably decline it?
• Distinct time, product or skill:
• Included, separate or declined:
• Added booking time:
• Price and approval point:

A useful menu helps the owner choose a result and helps the diary reserve the work. It doesn't ask them to assemble basic care at the counter.

Seglo note: Keep services and optional extras with the duration and price they need.

Keep reading

• What should dog grooming prices be based on?
• Set up services
• See Seglo for pet grooming