How much does a DIY dog wash cost in Australia?
In our directory, most self-serve dog washes cost about $10 for 10 minutes. What you pay in the end depends on how the machine charges and how big and fluffy your dog is.
What the big pet stores charge
- Petstock: $10 per dog for 10 minutes. You pay at the counter, and shampoo, conditioner, flea wash and a dryer are included (Petstock).
- PetO: $1 per minute. You choose 10, 11, 15 or 18 minutes on a touch screen and pay by card or coins (PetO).
- Petbarn: from $10, including a flea rinse cycle. You buy tokens at the counter or use notes and coins, and some machines take PayWave (Petbarn).
Dog wash bays at car washes set their own prices. Each listing in our directory shows the price when the operator publishes it.
Per minute or per wash
Most machines run on time: you pay, and the program runs while there is credit. Adding more coins or tokens gives you extra time. A quick rinse of paws and belly is cheap. A large dog with a thick coat costs more, because soaking, shampooing, rinsing and drying all take longer.
How to save time and money
- Brush first. Loose undercoat soaks up water and takes ages to dry. Brushing at home saves minutes at the machine.
- Bring a towel. Towel-drying before the dryer cuts drying time, and some dogs don't like the dryer anyway (PetO suggests the same).
- Have everything ready. Lead, treats and towel within reach, so the timer doesn't run while you look for things.
- Check the hours. Pet store washes work only while the store is open. Many car wash bays are open 24/7.
Before you go, check the listing for opening hours and payment: some machines take only coins or tokens.