Why a Bath Isn’t That Much Less Than a Haircut

Many pet parents are surprised to learn that a professional bath isn’t always significantly less expensive than a haircut.

The reason is simple: the bath and coat preparation — whether your pet is receiving a haircut or a bath-only service — is the most time-intensive and important part of the entire grooming process.

A beautiful haircut starts long before shears ever touch the coat.

Bath ≠ Basic

At Furology, we don’t offer “just a bath.” Every bath service is a full, intentional care experience designed to support skin health, coat quality, and your pet’s comfort.

Each bath includes:

• Two full shampoos and at least two facial cleanses

• One or more conditioning treatments (depending on coat and skin needs)

• Hand drying and stretch drying for proper coat prep

• Ear cleaning, nail trimming and filing, finishing spritz, and more

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Every step matters. Proper bathing and preparation create the foundation for a clean, safe haircut — and even for bath-only pets, this work protects skin health, prevents matting, and supports long-term comfort.

If the coat isn’t prepped correctly, the haircut simply cannot be done well.

A Bath & Prep Is the Majority of the Groom

Here’s a lil' industry secret: the haircut itself is often the shortest part of the appointment.

Brushing, bathing, conditioning, drying, and preparing the coat typically take more time than the haircut. By the time a pet is ready for trimming or scissoring, they are already thoroughly cleaned, conditioned, dried, and carefully brushed from skin to tip. Truly squeaky clean.

This preparation is what allows us to groom safely, accurately, and comfortably.

What Happens Before the Haircut

Many people assume the haircut is where most of the work happens, but in reality the majority of skill, time, and attention goes into prep. Before clippers or shears ever touch your pet’s coat, we complete:

Physical Assessment

Every pet receives a hands-on assessment of their skin, coat, ears, nails, teeth, and gums. This allows us to identify sensitivities, changes, or concerns and adjust products and techniques accordingly.

Thorough Shampooing

The first wash removes dirt, oil, and buildup. The second ensures the skin and coat are truly clean and balanced.

Conditioning Treatments

In many cases, we condition before shampooing to loosen debris and dead skin, then condition again after cleansing. Each round takes several minutes — bath time alone may be 15–30 minutes depending on coat type and size of the dog.

Gentle Facial Cleansing

A tear-free facial cleanser keeps sensitive areas clean and comfortable.

Hand Drying & Fluff Drying

Hand drying and stretch drying set the coat properly, prevent moisture-related skin issues, reduce matting, and prepare the coat for a trim.

Nail Trim & File

Nails are trimmed and filed smoothly.

Ear Cleaning

Moisture and debris are gently removed to support ear health and plucking is done as necessary.

Full Brush Out & Line Brushing

Every section of the coat is brushed thoroughly down to the skin to ensure an even, safe surface for trimming.

This level of preparation protects your pet’s comfort and allows the finished groom to look and grow out better.

Haircuts Aren’t as Simple as They Look

When you choose a Luxe Haircut Service, you’re not paying for “just the cut.”

You’re investing in:

• Precision tools and professional-grade products

• Skilled body awareness, balance, and symmetry

• Calm behavior handling and emotional regulation

• A clean, even finish that grows out well

  
  

Quality grooming is thoughtful, technical work; not just clip-and-go.

Calm • Clean • Comfort

At Furology, we don’t simply wash and cut. We provide care that supports your pet’s physical comfort, emotional safety, and long-term wellness.

Every appointment is paced intentionally, handled gently, and tailored to the individual pet.

Because grooming should feel safe, predictable, and supportive — not rushed or overwhelming.

Nothing We Use Is “Basic”

We proudly invest in luxury products and professional tools because quality matters. We work with trusted brands like Les Poochs, iGroom, and Iv San Bernard, and our equipment and shears represent a significant professional investment (I personally have about 20 pairs of shears 🥲).

These tools and products allow us to deliver safer handling, better coat results, and a more comfortable experience for your pet.

When you book a bath or haircut at Furology, you’re investing in skilled care, thoughtful preparation, and a calm, elevated grooming experience — not just a quick wash or trim.