FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions - Karnak Dog Grooming (Glen Waverley, Melbourne)

- What is "Teddy Bear" or "Asian-Inspired" grooming?

At Karnak Dog Grooming, we specialize in styles that enhance your dog's natural cuteness. Our signature "Teddy Bear" look for poodles and "Happy Ball Head" style for bichons are created with expert scissoring, bringing out the best features of each dog. For examples of our work, feel free to browse our Instagram page.

- How often should I get my dog groomed?

For dogs with longer coats, we recommend grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. This ensures your dog’s coat stays healthy, avoids matting, and minimizes the risk of skin irritations or insect issues. Regular grooming also keeps your dog feeling comfortable and clean.

- Can I groom my dog every 3-4 months instead?

At Karnak Dog Grooming, we prefer to work with clients who require regular grooming—typically every 4 to 6 weeks. If you only need grooming every few months, we may not be the best fit, as we have limited availability and prioritize ongoing care for your dog.

- What if my dog is really matted?

We don’t groom dogs that are severely matted. Mats can cause discomfort and skin damage, and it can be dangerous to attempt grooming without first removing them. We recommend addressing matting issues at home before scheduling an appointment.

- How long does the grooming process take?

On average, grooming sessions take between 2 to 3 hours. We prioritize quality and ensure your dog is thoroughly cleaned, hand-dried, and groomed with precision. The groomer will use mostly scissors for the styling process, ensuring your dog’s cut is just right. Once finished, we’ll spritz your dog with a gentle dog cologne before calling you to pick them up.

- Do you have any openings today?

Unfortunately, we are often fully booked up to two weeks in advance. Our clients generally pre-book their next appointment before leaving the salon. If you’re hoping for an immediate grooming appointment, we may not be the best fit for your needs.

    - Can I stay with my dog during grooming?

    For the best experience, we ask that owners remain outside the grooming area. When owners are present, dogs can become distracted, anxious, or overexcited, which can interfere with the grooming process. Since we use sharp tools, maintaining the dog’s focus is crucial for safety and the best results.

    - Why does my dog seem anxious when going to the groomers?

    It’s completely normal for dogs to feel anxious or nervous before grooming. To ensure your pet is being cared for, we have surveillance cameras running during grooming sessions. If you’re concerned, you can request to review the footage to see how your dog is doing.

    - What happens if fleas are found during grooming?

    If fleas are detected, your dog will be separated from other pets to prevent any spread. All grooming tools, towels, and equipment will be thoroughly disinfected. A $15 fee will be applied to cover the additional cleaning and delays caused by this procedure.

    - Do you provide photo sessions or send photos of my dog?

    We don’t offer professional photo shoots as part of our grooming services. The photos shared on our Instagram page are the personal creations of our groomers, who enjoy capturing the final results of their work. These photos are not included in the grooming package.

    - Do you sedate dogs for grooming?

    We never use sedation for grooming. If a dog is too anxious or uncooperative, we may need to end the session early. However, sedation is never used under any circumstances.

    - Do you groom large breed dogs?

    At Karnak Dog Grooming, we specialize in small to medium-sized breeds and do not offer grooming services for large dogs. We focus on providing a tailored grooming experience for smaller pets.

    - What is your policy for missed or canceled appointments?

    We kindly request a minimum of 48 hours' notice for cancellations. If you cancel last-minute or don’t show up, you will be charged for the missed session, and payment will be required before you can book another appointment. Repeated cancellations may result in your account being closed.

    - Do you offer pick-up/delivery or mobile grooming services?

    At the moment, we do not offer pick-up, delivery, or mobile grooming services. If distance is a concern, many of our clients take advantage of nearby shopping centres such as Chadstone, Westfield Knox, or The Glen while their dogs are being groomed.

    - Does my dog need to be vaccinated before grooming?

    Yes, to ensure the safety of all dogs in the salon, we require proof of up-to-date vaccinations (C5) before your first grooming session. Please bring a copy of your dog's vaccination record when you visit.

    - When can I bring my puppy in for grooming?

    Puppies can be groomed once they are fully vaccinated, typically around 16 weeks old. It’s a great idea to start early so they become accustomed to the grooming process. Their first visit can be a simple bath and tidy-up to help them feel comfortable.

    - How much do your grooming services cost?

    We offer competitive pricing for our grooming services. The cost will depend on your dog's size, breed, and coat condition. Please contact us directly or check our website for a full breakdown of pricing.

    - What are your grooming policies?

    • We require all dogs to have up-to-date vaccinations (C5) within 7 days of their appointment.
    • We only groom healthy dogs—if your pet appears unwell or has a condition that could affect the safety of others, we may need to reschedule.
    • We reserve the right to refuse service if the dog's condition presents a risk to the dog itself, other pets, or our staff.

    For more details or to schedule your dog’s grooming appointment, check out our Instagram page. We look forward to meeting you and your furry companion!