Frequently asked questions
Check out our FAQs below, and if you have any additional questions please feel free to reach out via our contact page!
Do you take puppies?
Yes — puppies are very welcome.
Their early grooming experiences shape how they feel about grooming for the rest of their life, so sessions are kept short, gentle, and positive.
We take our time and work at your puppy’s pace. Puppy grooms usually only include a bath and blow dry, we tidy up around their eyes and paws, clip their paw pads and sanitary areas, and trim their nails. This is so they can get used to all the sounds and sensations of a groom before they move onto a full groom.
How long does a groom take?
Appointments usually take 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on coat, size, and temperament. I groom one dog at a time with no overlap. The more regularly your dog visits us, the more we will start to be able to predict exactly how long the groom will take. I will give you an approximate time based on your dogs size and coat and so on when you first arrive, and then I’ll text you when your dog is ready for pickup. Please do not arrive before you know your dog is ready, as your dog will likely be very excited to see you, and may not be able to settle down enough for their groom to be completed!
Cancellations and lateness
Because I groom one dog at a time:
Please give 48 hours notice if rescheduling or cancelling. This allows me plan my day and to find another dog to fill your appointment in good time.
If you’re late and you have given us notice, please note the groom may need to be shorter or rescheduled. The full time of a groom is needed to complete a groom safely and to a certain standard, so sometimes if you’re late enough that a groom would have to be rushed, it may be best to reschedule for another time.
If you’re more than 15 minutes late and have given us no communication or notice that you’re late, and we’ve tried to contact you without success, you’re appointment will be regarded as a “no show” and cancelled.
I completely understand things happen — communication is always appreciated.
What if I have time constraints on the day of the groom?
Please let me know before your appointment if you have any time limitations (for example: school runs, work calls, or appointments). I’ll always do my best to accommodate your schedule where possible.
However — grooming takes the time it takes to be done safely, kindly, and without rushing. Trying to hurry a groom can:
Cause stress or anxiety for the dog
Increase the risk of accidental nicks or slips
Result in a finish that isn’t up to standard
If you need your dog ready by a certain time, just tell me at the time of booking — we’ll plan the appointment around your day so it’s relaxed for everyone.
Why are regular grooming appointments recommended?
Regular grooming helps your dog feel relaxed, comfortable, and confident. When dogs come in consistently, they become familiar with me, the studio, and the grooming process — which makes each appointment calmer and easier for them.
It also helps us:
Keep the coat in good condition
Prevent matting
Maintain a tidy, flattering shape
Find a style that really suits your dog and stick to it
Make appointment times and pricing predictable
A consistent schedule means your dog knows what to expect, I know what to expect, and you always get a coat style you’re happy with.
Most importantly — it supports a grooming experience that is kind and comfortable for your dog
How often should my dog be groomed?
It depends on their coat type and the style you’d like.
Curly Coats kept very long and fluffy - Every 4–6 weeks - This prevents matting which helps ensure a long, fluffy style can be maintained, alongside maintenance at home between grooms.
Curly Coats kept short - Every 8–12 weeks - Short trims may suit very active dogs, times of the year when the weather is very wet or mucky, or owners who would like less maintenance requirements at home between grooms.
Double Coat Breeds - Every 8–12 weeks - Helps remove dead coat and reduce shedding
Short Coats - Every 3 months or as needed - For hygiene and coat condition and to reduces shedding
If you’d like a long, fluffy, teddy-style coat, regular grooming and home brushing are essential. I’m always happy to show you how to brush effectively at home — we work as a team to keep the coat healthy. We can work together to find a groom for your dog that suits their coat and your lifestyle.
What if my dog is matted?
I will always do what is kindest and most comfortable for the dog.
Mild matting or small patches of matting can sometimes be brushed out if it can be done gently and without stress. Small mats here and there, for instance behind the ears or in the armpits, can often be shaved out and blended in with the coat so it isn’t too noticeable.
With severe matting the most humane option is to clip short and start fresh. Longer lengths of blades or guard combs cannot be forced through severe matting, as it poses a considerable risk to the dog as it tugs and pulls on the skin. A shorter length trim is required as matting needs a shorter blade length that can go under the mats instead of through them, and safely remove the matted coat comfortably for the dog.
Brushing out heavy matting is painful, stressful, and damages the coat, often causing worse matting later. Dogs can then come to associate being groomed with being uncomfortable, and carry this anxiety into their future grooms. A short, reset groom is kinder — and we can maintain a manageable length going forward. If a haircut is required for your dog that is very different to the one you hoped for, such as a shave versus long and fluffy, I will always discuss this with before their groom, or give you a call during their groom if anything changes.
Can double-coated dogs be shaved?
In most cases, shaving a double coat (such as a Pomeranian, Collie, Husky, or Golden Retriever) is not recommended. Double coats are designed to protect the dog — they help regulate temperature and shield the skin. If you are worried about your double coated dog being too warm, I would recommend a thorough de-shed groom that will remove dead hair and tangles, and allows their coat to regulate their temperature.
Shaving them can sometimes lead to:
Coat texture changes
Patchy regrowth
The coat becoming more prone to matting afterward
Higher risk of sunburn
However there are times when shaving a double coat is the kindest option, such as:
When the coat is severely matted
When brushing would cause discomfort or stress
When the dog has been shaved previously and the owner prefers to maintain that coat pattern
In those cases, a short reset groom is the most humane choice. My priority is always the dog’s comfort and well-being, and I’ll talk through the best approach with you before we begin
How is pricing decided?
Every dog is different — coat type, coat length, density, grooming history, temperament, and styling all affect the time required.
Because of this, pricing varies from dog to dog, even within the same breed. I’ll give a price range before your first groom. The final price reflects the time and care required on the day.
Why do grooming prices vary so much?
Grooming includes:
Bathing & coat cleansing
Drying & brushing
Coat shaping (scissoring / clipping)
Nail, hygiene & paw care
Gentle handling and emotional support
Equipment maintenance and sanitation
The price reflects the time, professional skill, equipment, and one-to-one care involved. Your dog is never rushed or overlapped with others.
Can the final price change after the groom?
Yes — if your dog requires more time than expected due to:
Matting
Extra coat density or an extra long
Anxiety or difficulty standing still
A style change
A longer time since the last groom
I’ll always be transparent and fair. Some problems that may make a groom longer or more complicated may not be spotted until I actually get into the groom. The goal is your dog’s comfort and a healthy, well-kept coat.
Do you groom large dogs?
Yes — on a case-by-case basis.
Because I work alone, larger dogs must be:
Cooperative
Comfortable being handled
Able to stand safely on the grooming table and get into the bath easily.
An anxious small dog can be managed safely. An anxious large dog can be unsafe for both of us. If you’re unsure, just send a message — we’ll talk it through.
Can I stay during the grooming appointment?
Most dogs relax once their person has left the room — staying can make them excited, stressed, or worried. It’s nothing personal - it just means they are able to focus on their groom and what I need them to do, rather than worrying about or focusing on what their owner is doing. For that reason, the studio stays dog and groomer only during grooms.
You're welcome to grab a coffee or stay nearby if you would like to be quickly available for your dog — I’ll update you if needed.
What if my dog has allergies, sensitivities, or medical needs?
Just let me know — I can adjust shampoo, drying methods, pace, or handling style - whatever you dogs needs to be comfortable. If your dog has significant medical needs, I may request vet clearance to ensure safety and comfort. All dogs visiting the studio should be up to date with any required vaccinations.
What if my dog doesn’t like other dogs?
The studio runs on a one to one basis - so one dog in at a time for their appointment. However, sometimes a dog may be waiting to go home or have arrived early. My own dog will also sometimes accompany me to the studio. If you have a dog that is reactive to other dogs or you think they would be more comfortable with a guaranteed no other dogs there, please let me know beforehand and I can ensure they are the only dog in the studio for their appointment.
Call, Text, or WhatsApp?
I’m hands-on with dogs during the day, so I can’t always answer calls mid-groom. For the quickest reply, please text or WhatsApp.
If you prefer to call, just leave a voicemail — I’ll return your call as soon as possible.
Are you insured and qualified?
Yes — I am professionally trained, with a Level 3 qualification in Dog Grooming and Salon Management. I have 4 years of experience working in other dog grooming salons before starting my own business. I was the first person in Ireland to be awarded the iPet Network Level 3 award in Wool Coat Asian Fusion Teddy Style in 2024. I’m constantly continuing my education in dog grooming and learning more about dogs though online classes and attending seminars and workshops. The Coat Club is registered with the Irish Professional Dog Groomers association and fully insured - your dog’s well-being and safety always come first.