In our salons.
In our mobile vans.
Everything we do, we do for dogs!
The Friendliest Dog Groomers In Southern Connecticut
We’ve been caring for the animals in Southern CT, and their families, with expertise and compassion for 20 years. We’re proud to have helped thousands of families just like yours with all of their pets’ grooming needs! Big or small, we care for them ALL! First and foremost, we’re animal lovers. So, whether we’re simply trimming their nails or providing our spectacular full service grooming, we’ll always treat your animals gently and with respect. We’ll also take the time to listen to you, answer your questions, and develop a grooming plan and schedule for a long, healthy life. Call for our Mobile Service, or come by and see us at our Salon in Stratford or in Meriden. We look forward to meeting you!
We provide comprehensive dog grooming for pets of every size and breed, tailoring each session to your dog’s individual needs.
Because It’s Our Clients That Matter Most
Yes, our salons and mobile vehicles are equipped to handle small and large pets. The pet must be able to stand on its own.
Depending on the coat structure, how long you like to keep the coat and how much brushing you do between grooms, most dogs are best maintained with 4-6 week grooming. Doodles with their soft curly coat require more frequent groom. Cats can generally be done every 3-6 months.
We recommend waiting until the puppy coat is at least 3-4 months old before cutting.
Yes. We offer standing appointments to ensure the day, time and preferred stylist can be available.
Most grooms for smaller pets take 1-1/2 hrs. Doodles and larger or thicker coated pets can take 2-3 hours. The longer between grooms and the thicker the coat the more time intensive.
Frequent brushing. Wearing a collar that rolls. Avoiding long periods of wearing sweaters. Never get matting wet. Bathing a matted dog only makes the matting tighter.
Yes – it has heat and air for all year climate control and the water is all heated.
The mobile vehicle carries fresh water and has generator power so we only need a place to park.
No however, please disclose any known injuries or illnesses that may affect the grooming process and safety of your pet and the stylist. We require that your pet has state mandated vaccines.
We try to provide the best estimate based on breed and information given when setting appointments however, if the pet is larger or smaller than breed standard or the coat is matted or a significant pattern change is required incurring extra time we will advise of the new estimate on site. Further, if you choose add ons on site that estimate can be revised. Gratuity is discretionary but averages 10-20% of services.
We do not administer any type of medicine. However, if your vet has prescribed a sedative, please follow those instructions and advise us so we can watch for any unusual behavior while grooming.
Stratford, Connecticut
November 19, 2025
Top Dog Holdings is pleased to announce the acquisition of Dogfather Grooming, a leading mobile and salon grooming company serving pet families across the Northeast.
Founded in 2006 by Matt Harwood, Dogfather Grooming has grown from a single van into a trusted regional brand that will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026. Matt will remain an Owner and Partner, staying close to day-to-day operations and helping guide this next stage of growth.
Today, Dogfather Grooming operates 25 fully equipped mobile vans and two premium salons in Stratford and Meriden, Connecticut. Some clients prefer a van at their doorstep. Others love the spa-like, luxury salon experience. Either way, every dog receives one-on-one attention in a calm, low-stress environment.
As Dogfather Grooming moves forward under Top Dog Holdings, the company is focused on three practical priorities:
Independent salon owners who are thinking about their next chapter will find clear, concrete options with us. We aim to be a buyer that:
Owners interested in a confidential conversation about joining the Dogfather Grooming family can contact Partner & Head of HR, Marie Koenig, at the email below.
Leadership for the Next Chapter
Founder Matt Harwood will guide Dogfather Grooming’s next phase of growth with the support of Partner & Head of Operations, Joseph Bereski, and Partner & Head of HR, Marie Koenig.
Our experienced and compassionate groomers are waiting to help you and your pet have the most comfortable experience possible.
We believe that your best friend deserves the best care. Come see us to get your pet the care it deserves!