Copying a nearby price list feels efficient, but it hides the real question: no two salons have the same rent, speed, team, or dog mix.
This worksheet helps you build a rate card you can defend without turning every quote into a long explanation.
Start with your productive table hour
The number that matters is the revenue you need per productive hour, not per hour open. If you open eight hours but only sell five grooming hours, your price list has to protect those five.
Add fixed costs, desired pay, products, taxes, and a buffer. Divide by the hours you can actually sell.
| Input | Example | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Sellable hours per month | 110 | Dog-on-table hours, not opening hours |
| Monthly revenue needed | $4,400 | Costs, pay, and taxes |
| Target revenue per hour | $40 | Base for every service |
| 75-minute service | $50 + supplies | Minimum before add-ons |
Turn minutes into a simple price card
Clients do not need to see your formula. They need a clear table. Group by size and add rules for coat, matting, behavior, or special work.
Every add-on should represent real time. If a double coat adds 30 minutes, the add-on should pay for those 30 minutes.
Base formula
Minimum price = minutes / 60 x target hourly revenue + supplies.
Matting add-on = expected extra minutes x target hourly revenue.
Round to a number you can say calmly.
Key points
- Do not price a 45-minute dog and a 90-minute dog the same.
- Use starting prices when coat condition changes the job.
- Review services that keep the calendar full but margin weak.
Communicate the change without sounding defensive
A price increase lands better when it explains care, not punishment. Say you are reserving the right amount of time for each dog and keeping the service consistent.
Recurring clients should hear before their next visit. New clients should see the updated price logic from the first contact.
Message for current clients
Hi, we have updated some prices so each dog gets the right amount of time for size, coat, and condition. For [dog], the next service will be [price]. I can explain what it includes before you book.
A good price card cuts quoting friction
When prices come from minutes and margin, quoting gets faster. Clients understand the range, and you stop absorbing long jobs as if they were normal.
Frequently asked questions
Should I publish fixed prices or starting prices?
Use fixed prices for stable services and starting prices when coat, matting, or behavior can change the duration.
How much should a matting fee be?
Tie it to extra time. If it adds 30 minutes, price those 30 minutes using your target hourly revenue.
Should I raise every price at once?
Not always. Start with long, unpredictable, or clearly underpriced services.