Dog Grooming in Tampa

15417 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL, USA

(813) 690-1700

(813) 690-1700

  • Home
  • About our salon
  • Haircut Choices by Breed
    • Bichon Haircuts
    • Doodle, Cockapoo, Cavapoo
    • Havanese/Coton Haircuts
    • Maltese Haircuts
    • Mixed Breed Styles
    • Poodle Haircuts
    • Pomeranian & Similar dogs
    • Schnauzer Haircut Choices
    • Shih Tzu Haircuts
    • Terrier Grooming
    • Yorkie Haircuts
  • Policies, Health, & Info
    • Policies/Vaccination info
    • Why we do not pluck ears!
    • Anal Gland Expression
  • Shop our Store
  • Buy Groomers Harness
  • More
    • Home
    • About our salon
    • Haircut Choices by Breed
      • Bichon Haircuts
      • Doodle, Cockapoo, Cavapoo
      • Havanese/Coton Haircuts
      • Maltese Haircuts
      • Mixed Breed Styles
      • Poodle Haircuts
      • Pomeranian & Similar dogs
      • Schnauzer Haircut Choices
      • Shih Tzu Haircuts
      • Terrier Grooming
      • Yorkie Haircuts
    • Policies, Health, & Info
      • Policies/Vaccination info
      • Why we do not pluck ears!
      • Anal Gland Expression
    • Shop our Store
    • Buy Groomers Harness
  • Home
  • About our salon
  • Haircut Choices by Breed
    • Bichon Haircuts
    • Doodle, Cockapoo, Cavapoo
    • Havanese/Coton Haircuts
    • Maltese Haircuts
    • Mixed Breed Styles
    • Poodle Haircuts
    • Pomeranian & Similar dogs
    • Schnauzer Haircut Choices
    • Shih Tzu Haircuts
    • Terrier Grooming
    • Yorkie Haircuts
  • Policies, Health, & Info
    • Policies/Vaccination info
    • Why we do not pluck ears!
    • Anal Gland Expression
  • Shop our Store
  • Buy Groomers Harness
Grande Style Pet

Grande Style Dog Grooming in Tampa

Grande Style Dog Grooming in TampaGrande Style Dog Grooming in Tampa

How to choose the right haircut for your Poodle

Consider these factors:

Choosing the right haircut for your Poodle isn’t just about looks—it's about finding a style that suits their lifestyle and keeps them comfortable. Here are several charming haircuts that can make your Poodle stand out while ensuring their coat is easy to manage.

When deciding on a haircut for your Poodle, it's important to consider these factors that will impact both your dog’s comfort and the ease of maintaining their coat:

  • Frequency of Brushing: Some cuts, like the Lamb Trim, require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. If you have the time and enjoy grooming your dog regularly, these styles can showcase your Poodles natural beauty. However, the Short Lamb or Miami Trim require much less frequent brushing.
  • Lifestyle: Active lifestyles involve swimming, camping, and roughhousing. If your Poodle takes part in the family's adventures, an easy maintenance style like the Kennel Cut or the Short Lamb Trim would be a great choice.

Considering these factors will help you choose a haircut that enhances your Poodles appearance and fits seamlessly into its lifestyle and grooming routine needs.

Selecting the best haircut depends on your dog’s personality, your lifestyle, and how much time you want to dedicate to grooming. Each style has unique strengths, ranging from low-maintenance trims to bold, eye-catching cuts.

  • Low-maintenance: Puppy Cut or Kennel Cut for a neat, simple style with minimal upkeep.
  • Cute and stylish: Teddy Bear Cut or Lamb Cut for a soft, rounded appearance that requires more regular grooming.
  • Bold and unique: Dutch Trim and Retro Styles for owners who enjoy dramatic, standout looks.
  • Playful or seasonal: Pom Pom Styles add fun by choosing the Miami Trim, or modified styles to add Pom Poms.
  • Comfort for seniors: Kennel Cut or the Short Lamb Cut to reduce matting and make grooming easier for older dogs.

Menu / Price List

Poodle Grooming Price List

Full service package includes tooth brushing, a salon bath with premium shampoo and conditioner, we provide an ear wash for healthy ears, blow dry, pedicure with nails trimmed and filed, 15 minutes of brushing during the blow dry, plus the haircut that best suits your dogs needs and your specifications. We empty anal glands using the external method on request. Adorable hand made finishing touches are available at no extra charge. We do not pluck ears.

Toy Poodle

$85

For Poodles under 10" tall at the shoulder

Oversize Toy Poodle

$85-$95

For Poodles 10" to 12" tall at the shoulder

Miniature Poodle

$95-$125

For Poodles 13' to 15" tall at the shoulder

Moyen Poodle

$135. to $150. on average

For Poodles 15" to 17" tall at the shoulder

Standard Poodle

$150. to $255. on average

For Poodles over 17" tall at the shoulder

This price does not include dematting. Dematting runs $1.25 per minute

Poodle haircut services

The Teddy Bear Trim

Fluffy brown dog with a colorful bandana and a ball on a wooden floor.

This style looks good with long or short ears. It is definitely one of the most popular styles at my salon


Maintenance Level: Moderate. The Teddy Bear Cut is relatively easy to maintain. Regular brushing is required to prevent matting. A good comb through after brushing to keep the coat in good condition.

Best For: The Teddy Bear Cut is perfect for people who do not like the traditional Poodle look, with the rounded face and feet, the fluffy look is appealing to most people.

The Lamb Trim

A well-groomed black poodle standing on a beach at sunset.

This style can be worn with a clean shaven face or a mustache. It is about one inch long on the trunk of the body (on a toy or miniature Poodle) with the legs a little longer.


Maintenance Level: Moderate. While the Lamb Cut is relatively easy to maintain, it does require regular brushing to prevent matting, especially around the legs where the hair is left longer. A professional trim every 4 to 6 weeks will keep the look sharp and fresh.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Use a high-quality slicker brush daily to maintain the body and legs. This keeps the coat tangle-free and enhances the natural shine of your poodle's fur.

The Short Lamb Trim

The Short Lamb Trim

A black poodle joyfully running outdoors on grass.

The Sporting Trim is a little shorter than the Lamb Trim, it is tighter on the trunk of the body. I use a 5/8 Ht blade, a 3 blade, a 4 blade typically. Then I scissor the legs a little fuller.

  • Grooming every 4–6 weeks is essential, with some cuts needing sooner touch-ups
  • Daily or frequent brushing helps prevent mats, especially on ears, legs, and tail


The Miami Trim

Fusion Inspired Styling

The Short Lamb Trim

Groomed poodle with pink bows and fluffy paws against purple background.

This cute style is great for the summer. It is short on the body with pom poms at the ankles. 

Maintenance Level: Low to Moderate. The Miami Cut requires regular maintenance to keep the short areas smooth and the puffs neatly trimmed. Brushing the puffs daily will help prevent matting and keep them fluffy. A professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks is ideal to maintain this cut's clean lines and shape.

Best For: The Miami Cut is perfect for poodles who enjoy a stylish, eye-catching look. It’s especially well-suited for warmer climates, as the shorter body hair helps keep your poodle cool, while the puffs add a unique, fashionable touch.


The Dutch Trim

Fusion Inspired Styling

Fusion Inspired Styling

A fluffy gray poodle with a small pink crown accessory on its head.

This Retro style was very popular in the '60's. This fancy pattern is clipped very close, with very stylish scissoring.

Maintenance level: Moderate. The Retro styles are usually quite fluffy with sharp, clean clipper work. The patterns in the fur are fun and whimsical.

Best for: The Retro styles are best for those who really want their Poodle to LOOK like a Poodle. These styles were all the rage when Poodles topped the charts as America's most popular dog.

  • Grooming every 4 weeks is essential, with some cuts needing sooner touch-ups
  • Daily or frequent brushing helps prevent mats, especially on ears, legs, and tail

Fusion Inspired Styling

Fusion Inspired Styling

Fusion Inspired Styling

Close-up of a fluffy brown poodle wearing a pink outfit.

These styles are characterized by an oval shaped mustache, tight trimming on the trunk of the body, and flared legs.

Maintenance Level: High. The Asian Fusion style requires frequent grooming to maintain the distinct shapes and features. Regular brushing is essential to keep the coat looking smooth and fluffy, and professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks will help preserve the style’s intricate details.

  • The body is kept short, using a # 5 blade (¼ inch) for a sleek, clean finish contrasting the more exaggerated features.
  • The face has an oval shaped mustache
  • The legs should be left fluffy, with a bell bottom look.
  • The ears can be styled either long and flowing or trimmed short and rounded to match the aesthetic. Discuss the desired look with your groomer to ensure a cohesive style.

Show Groom: English Saddle Trim

Show Groom: English Saddle Trim

Book with Suzanne For your dogs show grooming, Suzanne has groomed many Champion and Grand Champion Poodles. 

Show Grooms run $187.50 (Toy) to $355. (Standard) provided that the coat is in excellent condition. 

Show Groom: Continental Trim

Show Groom: English Saddle Trim

Book with Suzanne For your dogs show grooming, Suzanne has groomed many Champion and Grand Champion Poodles. 

Show Grooms run $187.50 (Toy) to $355. (Standard) provided that the coat is in excellent condition. 

Show Groom: Puppy Trim

Show Groom: Puppy Trim

Book with Suzanne For your dogs show grooming, Suzanne has groomed many Champion and Grand Champion Poodles. 

Show Grooms run $187.50 (Toy) to $355. (Standard) provided that the coat is in excellent condition. 

    Video

    Teddy Bear Trim

    Teddy the Poodle is getting a Teddy Bear Trim at Grande Style Dog Grooming in Tampa.

    Modified Dutch Trim

    Monet the Standard Poodle is getting a Modified Dutch trim at Grande Style Dog Grooming in Tampa..

    How to brush and comb your Poodle

    Grande Style Pet grooming earns commissions from items linked on our website.

    The best tools to maintain your Poodles coat

    Poodle Comb

    Flexible slicker brush

    Flexible slicker brush

    The Poodle comb is an essential piece of equipment to have in your coat care tool kit.





    Pro Tip: Use this comb after the brush out to check for tangles and prevent mats.

    Buy here

    Flexible slicker brush

    Flexible slicker brush

    Flexible slicker brush

    I use the Paw Brothers Flexible Slicker, this brush helps to prevent tangles and nots in coats that are less than 1" long. 


    Pro Tip: Use this brush to remove those pesky hitch hikers from your dogs coat.

    Buy here

    Big Paw Slicker Brush

    Flexible slicker brush

    Extra Firm Long pin Slicker Brush

    This brush is excellent for getting deep into the coat to really bring out that fluff.




    Pro Tip: Use this brush after you have loosened up the curl with the flexible slicker, to reduce to drag and pull on the coat from this firmer brush.

    Buy here

    Extra Firm Long pin Slicker Brush

    Extra Firm Long pin Slicker Brush

    This brush is excellent for dematting, and penetrating coats that are extra thick or longer.




    Pro Tip: Use this brush after you have loosened up the curl with the flexible slicker, and when dematting is necessary. Always check the coat with a comb to ensure that the tangles and mats are removed See video below.

    Buy here

    The Pin brush

    The pin brush is a must have for caring for your Poodle in show coat. The Maxi Pin Vip is my personal favorite.



    Pro Tip: This brush is best for all areas of the coat that are 3" or longer.

    Buy Here

    Tear Stain Prevention

    This is an amazing product for removing and softening eye crusts. I use it in the salon regularly. This product is helpful for tear stains.


    Pro Tip: Keeping the eye area clean is a secret to preventing tear stains.

    Buy Here

    Anti Static Spray

    Argan Oil Products

    A good quality anti static spray helps to reduce static in the coat making brush out sessions a breeze.



    Pro Tip: Mist the coat lightly before brushing and combing to help the brush glide through the coat.

    Buy here

    Argan Oil Products

    Argan Oil Products

    This is my favorite shampoo and conditioner for Poodle coats.


    Pro Tip: Always brush and comb the dog from one end of the body to the other the same day as the bath. Preferably as the dog is drying, or once the dog is dry.

    Buy here

    Ear Wash

    Brush out Spray

    Ear cleansing is esesntial every time that the dog gets wet. This helps to prevent ear infections by drying moisture, as well as removing wax and debris.


    Pro Tip: Fill each ear canal with the solution after the rinse, but before the towel dry. Rub the base of the ear, and allow the dog to shake it out. Then lightly blot the ear dry.


    Caution: Do not use in abnormal looking ears, if the ears have a dark brown discharge, redness, swelling, or other discharge, seek veterinary help.

    Buy here

    Brush out Spray

    Brush out Spray

    Brush out Spray

    Wonder Spray is a fantastic brush out spray for extra thick or matted coats.


    Pro Tip: Mist over the coat lightly before brushing, lay a towel under the dog to catch overspray. Reapply before combing to hair to check for tangles.

    Buy here

    Tooth Paste

    Brush out Spray

    Tooth Brushes

    Brushing your pets teeth daily helps to prevent expensive dental bills and keeps your pets breath fresh and clean.


    Pro Tip: Putting your pet on a non slip surface helps them to feel safe. Be careful not to hold to dog covering the soft area just behind the nostrils, as this blocks their airway.

    Buy here

    Tooth Brushes

    Brush out Spray

    Tooth Brushes

    Use these eco friendly tooth brushes to keep your pets breath fresh.

    Buy here

    Grande Style pet grooming earns commissions from some of our "Buy Here" links

    How to

    Brush and comb your Poodle

    Caring for your Poodles coat

    How to prevent matted hair.

    So, you want to grow your dogs hair longer. I hear this a lot. Dogs are beautiful with long flowing coats. That natural, scruffy, shaggy, puppy look is adorable. You try to keep the hair brushed, you really honestly do.


    But your dog is young. She needs to learn. She doesn’t like it, That’s okay, that’s what a professional is for, right? Wrong! Pet groomers are actually pet stylists. The one responsible for caring for the condition of the dog is the owners of the dog. The reason for this is that the maintenance of the coat is a constant routine. The level of difficulty depends upon the length of the coat, and other factors such as:

    1. Do you wash the dog?

    2. Does the dog swim or go into a wading pool?

    3. Do you leave a harness on the dog?

    4. Does the dog wear clothing?

    5. If the dog is in full coat, or has a lot of hair around the neck, does she wear a collar?

    6. If you wash your dog, do you that very same day, thoroughly brush and comb that dog over every inch of it’s body?

    All of these factors determine the amount of work necessary to maintain the coat. I specialize in maintaining a full coat. My own dogs, and many of my clients dogs have had coats in amazing condition.

    It is a labor of love. The secret is dedication. It is not a chore, it’s actually a bonding time for you and your pets IF and only IF both of you enjoy it.

    Sometimes it can become frustrating, the dog fights the brush, or you give the dog a quick bath with no brushing only to later realize that was a disastrous decision. Or you leave the cute Christmas sweater on for 3 days while we have freezing temperatures, only to end up with a completely shaved down dog.

    Sometimes, clients think, no worries, the groomer has special techniques, special tools, and wonderful conditioning treatments that they are trained to use in the event that your dog gets a few little mats. And to an extent, this is true.

    The problem is, when we brush out matted hair, it hurts. And when the dog already hates the brush, it can be traumatizing. Sometimes I can do it once, to save the dogs coat, but the next time, the dog says NO. I often have clients prefer for me to save the coat, to please keep the hair that I trimmed short underneath the last time, and to let the coat grow. But if the coat is matting at this shorter length, why should we grow it longer?

    The dogs owner must listen to the pet. If the pet cannot tolerate the brush, then keep the hair shorter until the training and routine are established.

    The routine and tools depend on the desired length of coat and the type of coat that the dog has. Long flowing silky coats benefit from the use of a Pin Brush, and a Comb, a Chris Christensen Buttercomb, and a Face Comb.

    Cottony  bushy coats benefit from the use of the flexible slicker brushes, a Long Pin Slicker, and the Chris Christensen Poodle Combs.


    The type of pins on the slicker depend on the depth of coat and the area you are brushing. I use both and go back and forth using both brushes on each dog, using the stiffer shorter pins on mats, the legs, and sometimes under the arms, and the longer pins in the areas where the hair is longer and thicker.

    Most slicker brushes either have short pins or angled pins. The short pins are useless for penetrating a coat that is more that a half inch long. I do not recommend any brushes with plastic coated tips. 

    Brushes with sharply angled pins have a lot of drag and pull in a thick coat. This can make brushing very uncomfortable for the dog. Therefore, the brushes that you choose need longer pins that are not too sharply angled.

    People often ask, “Should I brush every day ?” Or “How often should I brush?”. The answer is different in each situation. 

    My own dogs have always been brushed on bath day, with the exception of long top knots (which is every 1-3 days) . The length of the coat determines the frequency of the bath days. Long, flowing coats every 5 days. Lamb Trims  every 7-14 days. Miami Trims and Kennel Cuts every 7-21 days. This system works only if you are very diligent to completely brush and comb the dog from one end of its body to the other on the same day as the bath is done.


    Here are a few key things to know about the Poodle coat:


    • It’s hair, not fur. Poodles have continuously growing hair that behaves more like human hair than typical dog fur.
    • Prone to matting. Those tight curls can lock together quickly, especially around high-friction areas like the ears, armpits, and collar line.
    • Variety in curl type. Some Poodles have looser waves, while others have very tight curls, which can change how often they need brushing.
    • Seasonal comfort. The coat provides insulation, but it can also trap heat. Choosing the right haircut helps your Poodle stay comfortable year-round.
    • Allergy-friendly. Their coat sheds very little, making them a popular choice for families with allergies, but that also means regular trims are essential.

    The takeaway is simple: a Poodle’s coat can be their best feature or their biggest challenge. With the right brushing routine and consistent grooming, that signature curl will always look stylish, stay healthy, and be easier for your groomer to shape into a beautiful cut.

    Why we do not pluck a dogs ears

    • Is there an alternative to plucking dog ear hair?
    • Does plucking the hair hurt the dog?
    • Is dog ear plucking necessary? 

    At Grande Style Pet Grooming, located in the Northdale/ Carrollwood area in Tampa, we do not believe that the pet groomers should excessively pluck their clients dogs ears. We only remove hair that is in the exogen phase, and releases easily with finger and thumb. 

    We never use ear powder, as this can clog the ears.


       The dogs ear canal is shaped like a capital letter L, glands and hair line inside the dog’s ear. The glands produce wax, and the hair moves it up and out to clean the ear. This is the way it is supposed to naturally. Dogs ears are self-cleaning! A normal, clean ear should pink and free of debris. 


       In the past, it has been recommended that dogs should have hair-free ears and ear plucking has been a regular part of dog grooming. New evidence has revealed that ear plucking in the normal, healthy ear is not necessary. Excessive ear plucking may actually result in micro-trauma and inflammation to the ear canals. This may predispose your dog to an ear infection. 

    If your vet insists that ear hair be plucked, I recommend that the vet be the one perform the procedure.


       Alternatively, ears can be trimmed of excessive long hairs from the ear. This can  help reduce the amount of ear wax that gets trapped in the ear,  thereby minimizing the ear odor. This is commonly recommended by veterinary dermatologists.


       An ear cleansing solution  can help reduce the incidence of ear problems. Ask your veterinarian which product would be best for your dog. In her presentation to Tucson groomers, “Ears: What Every Groomer Needs to Know”, Dr. Heide Newton, DVM, DACVD plainly stated that groomers should stop plucking ear hair from inside dog’s ears. “Healthy ears are self-cleaning”, stated Dr. Newton. She encouraged groomers to continue the practice of ear cleaning, however, using products formulated for ear care, and massaging the base of the ear to allow the product to loosen wax and debris from deep in the ear canal.


       Another clear statement from Dr. Newton was that “Bathing with clean water will NOT cause ear infections.”  Contaminated water may introduce microbes that lead to ear infections, but clean water is not a problem. The possibility of cross-contamination from an infected ear to the other ear or another animal is the one area where groomers might be at fault.  It is very possible for pseudomonas bacteria to transfer from the ear to various surfaces and then be picked up by other animals or even humans.  The most obvious sign of a pseudomonas infection is what vets call a “purulent exudates.” Translation: yucky discharge.  If the groomer suspects an ear infection, Dr. Newton suggested the following protocol:


    1. Clean the GOOD ear first.

    2. If the ear with the suspected infection is cleaned, be gentle and use a non-stinging ear cleaner. The groomer may also choose to not clean an ear with a suspected infection, especially if it looks serious.

    3. Disinfect everything that the dog has contact with or might spray with shaking of the ears. This includes, your hands, the tub, the faucets, any tools, the table, the kennel and bedding, and the tip or spout of the ear cleaner bottle.


       In addition to ear discharge, other signs of ear abnormality are redness, itchiness, odor, swollen tissue of outer ear, hair loss on earflap, and scabs or scaliness.  Ear problems are often quite complex and difficult to nail down and treat.  A referral to the veterinary dermatologist can result in a quicker and more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment, thus lessening the time the pet has to suffer with uncomfortable, often painful conditions.  By encouraging pet parents to seek treatment for suspected ear problems, the professional groomer is serving the needs of the pet.

    Veterinary dermatologists such as Dr. Newton, undergo several years additional training and examinations beyond that required of general practitioners.  


       Dr. Newton is part of Dermatology for Animals, a network of veterinary dermatologists serving the Southwest United States.  In addition to working full-time in the Tucson practice, she currently serves on the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD) Exam Committee (the certifying board) and is a lecturer for the North American Veterinary Dermatology Forum (NAVDF) Resident Education Forum.


       Some pets are prone to ear problems and may need a regular ear cleansing between veterinary visits. I suggest using an ear cleansing solution every time your pet gets wet, as this helps dry out any moisture in the ear canal. I follow the instructions in the video immediately after each and every bath or swim.


       Ear cleansing can help remove dirt and wax that builds up as a normal part of epithelial migration (“self-cleaning”). It can also reduce the buildup of bacteria or yeast that may contribute to inflammation or infection. This is easy to do at home, see the video below  demonstrating the correct ear cleaning procedure.


        In my salon we always do this to prevent issues with your pets right after the final rinse in the tub ( only in healthy ears). Clients are encouraged to bring their own veterinarian recommended ear cleanser.


        Because ear cleansers may contain chemicals that are harsh on the delicate ear canals, it is important to use only products as recommended by your veterinarian. 

    I personally avoid homemade preparations and products containing propylene glycol. If for any reason, your pet becomes agitated or the ear cleaning procedure is excessively painful for your pet, stop and seek veterinary advice.


    Signs of ear trouble

    •Strong or foul odour

    •Redness or leathery ear flaps

    •Scratching or rubbing at ears or side of head.

    •Ear discharge & excessive debris

    •Shaking or tilting of the head

    •Not wanting the head or ears to be touched

    •Irritability


       In my salon, if I see any of these signs, I do not touch inside the ears at all. This is a controversial topic that continues to make the rounds in the grooming and veterinary world. 


       Some professionals think that ear plucking should be a part of a dog’s grooming regimen while others think it’s not.

    According to veterinary dermatologists, plucking hair from a dog’s ear can do more harm than good. The procedure can cause microscopic tears in the tissues of the ear canal which can cause bacteria to invade and cause infection.

    If recurrent ear infections are not a problem for your dog, there is no reason to pluck the hair from his ears regularly. 


       Most dermatologists who say that the dog needs plucking due to ear issues, also say that they must do it under anesthesia because it’s too painful to pluck an infected ear. 


       Just make sure the hair is well-trimmed, so the ear opening is not blocked and air flows freely. Keeping your pet’s ear hairs short can also prevent ear wax and debris from getting trapped.


        If you have concerns about the pets ears, make an appointment with your veterinarian. For chronic issues, seek a referral to a veterinary Dermatologist.

    Sources

    https://www.dechra-us.com/Files/Files/SupportMaterialDownloads/us/US-030-BRO.pdf 

    References

    https://petgroomermagazine.com/articles/techniques/no-ear-plucking


    https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/dermatology/otitis-externa-inflammation-of-the-ear-canal/


    https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/care/ear-care/chronic-ear-infections-in-dogs-what-you-need-to-hear-2/?amp=1


    https://groomblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/no-more-ear-hair-plucking.html

    Reference video

    https://youtube.com/shorts/UF0V1KeZNsI?si=M3SlwbnTPyFMx6UZ



    Video

    Proper grooming is essential

    Do not neglect the ear hair. This is what neglect looks like, at Grande Style dog Grooming, we maintain the ear hair without plucking.

    How to properly use the ear wash

    This demonstration shows how to use the ear wash.

    Should the groomer express your dogs anal glands?

    Does the dog groomer express glands? When groomers express anal glands, it is usually done externally, as it’s illegal for groomers to cross the barrier entering the dogs rectum. When the veterinarian expresses the anal glands, they do it internally. The videos linked below will give you a better understanding of the function of the anal glands, and the groomers role. You will see by watching all 3, that even in the veterinary community there are slight differences in opinion.

    As a general rule, we at Grande Style Dog Grooming do not routinely express anal glands because that can actually cause more problems for the dog. We recommend only emptying anal glands when they actually need it, not as a preventative measure.  

    Beware of companies who offer monthly memberships and offer this service during grooming, as these services often employ entry level workers who perform the anal gland expression. This is best performed by a veterinarian. 

    Does the dog groomer express glands? When groomers express anal glands, it is usually done externally, as it’s illegal for groomers to cross the barrier entering the dogs rectum. When the veterinarian expresses the anal glands, they do it internally. The videos linked below will give you a better understanding of the function of the anal glands, and the groomers role. You will see by watching all 3, that even in the veterinary community there are slight differences in opinion.

    As a general rule, we at Grande Style Dog Grooming do not routinely express anal glands because that can actually cause more problems for the dog. We recommend only emptying anal glands when they actually need it, not as a preventative measure.  

    Beware of companies who offer monthly memberships and offer this service during grooming, as these services often employ entry level workers who perform the anal gland expression. This is best performed by a veterinarian.

    External expression involves applying pressure to the outside of the anal area with a cloth, but this method is less effective and carries a higher risk of rupture. Internal expression involves a veterinarian inserting a gloved finger into the anus to manually squeeze the sacs from the inside, providing a more complete and effective emptying.   

    External Anal Gland Expression  

    How it's done: A soft cloth or napkin is placed over the anus, and gentle pressure is applied to squeeze the anal glands from the outside.   

    Pros:  

    Can be performed by some pet owners or groomers.   

    Cons:  

    Often results in an incomplete emptying of the sacs.   

    Higher risk of anal gland rupture or other injury.   

    Does not allow for a thorough assessment of the glands.   

    Internal Anal Gland Expression  

    How it's done:  

    The person performing the expression wears a glove and inserts their lubricated index finger into the pet's anus to locate and squeeze each sac between their finger and thumb.   

    Pros:  

    More effective at completely emptying the glands, especially when secretions are thick or impacted.   

    Allows a veterinary professional to assess the gland for thickening or abnormal growths.   

    Cons:  

    Requires medical expertise to perform correctly and safely.   

    Can be an uncomfortable procedure, requiring distraction or sedation from a vet.   

    When to See a Vet:

    If your pet is scooting, licking their bottom excessively, or has a strong odor, it's essential to have a veterinarian assess them. They can determine if the anal glands need expression and perform it safely and effectively. Self-expression is not recommended, as it can cause injury or worsen existing problems. 

    Allergies are a common cause of anal gland issues in dogs because inflammation from allergies can cause the anal glands to become swollen, impacted, and infected. Allergies can lead to increased licking of the anal area, which can introduce bacteria, and may result in digestive issues like diarrhea or loose stools that prevent the glands from emptying properly. Treating the underlying allergies with diet or medication can often resolve the anal gland problems. es, allergies are a common cause of anal gland issues in dogs because inflammation from allergies can cause the anal glands to become swollen, impacted, and infected. Allergies can lead to increased licking of the anal area, which can introduce bacteria, and may result in digestive issues like diarrhea or loose stools that prevent the glands from emptying properly. Treating the underlying allergies with diet or medication can often resolve the anal gland problems. 


    How Allergies Lead to Anal Gland Problems

    •  Inflammation:Allergies cause chronic inflammation throughout the body, including the skin and the delicate lining of the anal glands, leading to swelling and irritation. 
    •  Increased Licking:Dogs with allergies often lick or chew their skin, including the anal region, which can introduce bacteria and worsen irritation. 
    •  Digestive Issues:Allergies, especially food allergies, can lead to loose stools or diarrhea, which hinders the normal emptying process of the anal glands during defecation. 
    •  Hot Spots:Allergies can also cause skin inflammation or hot spots, and because the anal glands are part of the skin apparatus, these issues can contribute to anal gland problems. 

    Signs of Anal Gland Problems 

    •  Scooting or dragging their bottom on the floor 
    •  Excessive licking or chewing at the rear end 
    •  Foul odor 
    •  Pain, discomfort, or swelling in the anal area 

    What to Do

    1. Consult with your veterinarian: A veterinarian can properly diagnose the cause of the anal gland issues and rule out other potential underlying health conditions. 
    2. Allergy treatment: Your vet may suggest diet trials with novel proteins or hypoallergenic foods to address food allergies. 
    3. Medications: Allergy medications or supplements can help manage environmental allergies and reduce skin inflammation. 
    4. Dietary changes:Your vet might recommend a higher fiber diet to help firm up stools. 

    5. Probiotics: Supplements containing probiotics and prebiotics can support gut health and improve stool consistency, which is beneficial for anal gland function. 


    Did you know that some Countries prohibit anal gland expression of any kind, except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian! In the United Kingdom, it is illegal for groomers to express a dog's anal glands, as it is considered an act of veterinary surgery. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) states that deciding if a gland requires expression or if it is infected involves a diagnosis, which must be performed by a qualified vet or a veterinary nurse under a vet's supervision. Other countries, such as Canada, also have regulations that discourage or prevent groomers from performing this procedure. 

    Laws in the United Kingdom

          • The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 dictates that certain procedures, including anal gland expression, can only be performed by veterinary professionals.

    •  The British Dog Groomers' Association (BDGA) advises its members not to offer this service and to refer it to a vet.
    •  Violation of this act can result in legal action against a groomer for practicing veterinary medicine without a license. 

    Guidelines in Canada

    Guidelines in Canada

    •  The legality of groomers expressing anal glands is determined at the provincial level.
    •  Some Canadian provinces have regulations from veterinary organizations that mandate the procedure be performed only by vets.
    •  The Professional Pet Groomers Association of Manitoba provides resources to help groomers understand and follow their provincial regulations. 

    Risks of groomers performing the procedure

    Groomers are typically only trained to perform an external expression, which carries several risks: 

    •  Incomplete emptying: The external method often fails to completely empty the glands, leading to repeated issues and potential infection.
    •  Rupture and infection: The delicate glands can be ruptured by improper technique, leading to severe pain and infection.
    •  Scar tissue: Repeated external expression can cause trauma and scar tissue formation, making future natural expression difficult and creating a dependency on manual intervention.
    •  Missing a diagnosis: Because groomers cannot assess the glands internally or diagnose issues, they may miss signs of infection, impaction, or tumors, which require veterinary attention. 
    • https://youtu.be/TiZQ_-6gWwM?si=nkaExgQq9Yrtim0Q

    Prevention of Anal Gland issues

    •  Request veterinary-only services: It's best to have anal glands expressed by a veterinarian. 
    •  Be cautious with groomer services:Insist that groomers leave the anal glands alone unless your vet has confirmed they need to be expressed. 
    •  Monitor for signs of problems: Keep an eye on your dog for symptoms like scooting, which may indicate an issue that needs veterinary attention. 

    Book Now

    We are accepting New dogs under 30 lb.

    As of 1/1/2026, we are focusing our services on small-to-medium sized dogs and will only be accepting new clients whose dogs weigh 30 pounds or less. This change allows us to provide the best possible care and a safe environment for every pet and groomer. We value your business and are happy to recommend other trusted local salons for dogs over 30 pounds. Thank you for your understanding!

    This dog is over 30 lbs.


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