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

Roman's Empire • May 17, 2025

When pet parents see the pricing difference between a bath and a full haircut, many assume the clip itself is what drives the cost. After all, isn’t the bath the easy part? But in reality, most of the work happens before a single blade or shear ever touches your dog’s coat—and it’s time we talk about it.


Bath ≠ Basic

Let’s start with the bath. A true professional groomer isn’t just spraying your dog with water and soap and calling it a day. At Roman’s Empire, every bath includes:

  • Double shampooing to lift oils, dirt, allergens, and buildup
  • Conditioning for hydration, texture, and manageability
  • Aloe foam scrub and skin massage to boost circulation and comfort
  • Fluff drying by hand, which is physically intensive and time-consuming
  • Ear cleaning, nail trimming and filing, teeth brushing, paw balm, nose balm — not a single corner is cut


Each step prepares the coat and skin for a clean, safe cut. And if the coat isn’t properly prepped, the haircut can’t be done well or correctly—or safely.


(→ Read more about the full scope of what professional grooming actually involves here).


A Bath & Prep is 75% of the Groom

Here’s a secret from behind the grooming table:
The haircut is often the shortest part of the process.


Brushing, dematting (if appropriate), drying, and prepping the coat can take longer than the trim itself. And the more meticulous the bath and prep, the smoother and safer the haircut.

Not to mention—dogs move. A lot. They sit, shake, flinch, or protest entirely. Precision clips on a moving canvas take more time and skill than many realize.


What Happens Before the Haircut

Many people assume the bulk of the grooming service lies in the haircut itself—but in reality, the haircut is simply the final touch. The majority of the time, skill, and effort is dedicated to the preparation process, which ensures both the safety of the pet and the quality of the final groom. Here’s what’s included before clippers or shears ever touch your pet’s coat:

  • Physical Evaluation – Every pet receives a hands-on assessment before any bathing or grooming begins. We examine the skin, coat, ears, nails, teeth, and gums to identify any sensitivities, abnormalities, or changes. Services are then tailored to suit the pet’s current skin and coat condition, ensuring a safe and appropriate grooming approach.
  • Double Shampooing – A thorough cleanse removes dirt, oil, and buildup. The first wash breaks through grime, and the second ensures a truly clean coat and skin.
  • Aloe Foam Lather & Soak – A gentle, skin-soothing pre-cleanse massaged into the coat and left to soak, helping to lift debris and hydrate the skin.
  • Conditioner Treatment – Restores moisture, detangles, and softens the coat to reduce breakage and promote manageability.
  • Fluff Drying – A critical step that involves hand drying the coat straight and smooth. This not only sets the shape for the haircut but also helps prevent matting and ensures no moisture is left behind to cause skin issues.
  • Nail Trim & File – Nails are cut and then filed smooth to prevent snags, scratches, and joint strain.
  • Teeth Cleaning – Helps reduce plaque buildup and maintain oral hygiene, which is essential for long-term health.
  • Ear Cleaning – Debris and moisture are gently removed to prevent infection and discomfort.
  • Full Brush Out & Line Brushing – Every inch of the coat down to the skin is carefully brushed and detangled section by section to ensure a smooth, even surface for clipping or scissoring.


All of this meticulous work must be done before any trimming begins. Rushing or skipping these steps compromises both the appearance and safety of the groom—and your pet’s comfort.


Haircuts Aren’t “Add-Ons”—They’re Refinements

When you choose a full groom with a haircut, you’re not paying for just the cut. You’re paying for:

  • Precision tools and products (we use shears that cost $300+ a pair, $500+ clippers, etc.)
  • Body awareness and symmetry
  • Behavior management and gentle handling
  • A clean, even look that grows out well


This is especially true for pets with special needs, thick or curly coats, or unique styling preferences. It’s not a clip-and-go—it’s tailored work requiring practice, intuition, and experience.


Learn why your doodle's grooms cost more here.


Why the Price Gap Exists

At Roman’s Empire, we don’t charge “extra” for a haircut—we charge fairly for the additional time, skill, and equipment it takes to do the job correctly.

The difference in pricing reflects:

  • The length and complexity of the groom
  • Coat type, size, and condition
  • Style requested vs. maintenance level
  • Handling required (especially for seniors or nervous pets)


The bath isn’t the shortcut. It’s the foundation. And when the foundation is done right, the haircut becomes a finishing touch—not the entire job.


It’s Not “Just” a Haircut

We understand that pet care budgets matter, and transparency is key. But reducing a full groom to “just a haircut” misses the hours of prep, expertise, physical labor, and specialized care that happens before the scissors ever come out.


We don’t just wash and cut. We observe, support, correct, and protect.

Because it’s not just grooming—it’s professional, compassionate care for your pet’s whole being.


Nothing We Use is “Basic”—So No Groom We Provide Is, Either

At Roman’s Empire, we don’t use generic shampoos, conditioners, sprays, cheap brushes, combs, blades or loud clippers from a pet chain. We invest in high-performance, skin-safe, coat-specific tools and products that work with your pet’s body—not against it. Our shears are precision-forged. Our clippers are ultra-quiet, low-vibration, and powerful enough to handle thick coats gently.


Even our shampoos and conditioners are selected based on skin condition, coat type, and health history—never a “one-size-fits-all” solution.


This means every product that touches your dog’s body and every tool we use is chosen with intention. No corner is cut, no step is skipped, and the price reflects that quality.


If you’re looking for a “basic” groom, we’re not the cheapest option—and that’s the point. Explore why cheap grooming isn't a bargain.


If you’re looking for professionalism, comfort, and results that last, you’re in the right place.


Serving These Areas with Excellence:

Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Oak Park, Moorpark, and Simi Valley.


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