I don't even know where to begin. We recently moved out of Chicago and guess the only thing that we are missing, John. I know we won't be able to find someone like him anywhere else and that makes me and my husband really sad. A. My dog loved going to John, he never felt stressed after John's haircut. B. Have you seen how clean his shop is? My jaw dropped when I first went there. C. His cuts are so amazing, Toby was getting complements constantly. D. Shampoo that he uses is amazing, smells so good. E. My dog is anxious, but John never had a problem working with him somehow , he usually never sits still for anyone. F. He is a professional groomer and I don't think you will find someone like him at least in Chicago area. I can go on and on. I don't think he needs my review but I just wanted to share for someone lucky who lives in the area and is able to get appointment at Clean Dog. read more

CleanDog - Toby - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Not sure what superlatives I can add to what many others have written except to say all of them are true. One of the true pleasures of living in a big city it to discover treasures in the most unexpected of places. Who would think that dog grooming would be one such place but I consider CleanDog to be a treasure in Chicago. John brings a rare combination of pride or work and some kind of genius for dog grooming that is ineffable; he just has a feel and an incredible talent for working with dogs. What brought me in the door for our Maltipoo Bailey is that I was looking for someone who would not immediately resort to shears to deal with some matting (admittedly, we had let Bailey go and she was very matted). I know that taking her to our prior groomer would result in her coming home shivering and looking like a short-haired chihuahua. Reading the reviews here led us to CleanDog. In short, John did not disappoint. He is so kind and helpful and went the extra mile (and then another extra mile and then another after that). As others have experienced, we could not believe how wonderful she looked. In fact, it was the best she has ever looked, hands down. John patiently brushed her out, gave her a much needed bath, and then working his own unique magic, brought out the scissors and turned her into a show dog. I can't imagine taking her for grooming anywhere else in Chicago. read more

CleanDog - When she saw us waiting outside for her. - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Wish I could give John & CleanDog a 10 star rating. Our puppy was TERRIFIED of going to the groomers. Biting, growling, completely out of his mind even with medication. Since taking him to CleanDog he's had a successful grooming. We couldn't be happier! read more

CleanDog - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I recently lost my beloved Tibetan Terrier, Sachi, as she fell ill. She was a regular at Clean Dog and John always took great care of her and made her look like a starlet. People would often stop me on the street to say how cute Sachi was and how much they loved her bows, courtesy of John. I will miss bringing Sachi to Clean Dog and picking her up at the end of the day. I can still see her watching the door as I walked up and barking to let John know I arrived to take her home. Thank you John, for taking good care of my Sachi over the years. read more

CleanDog - Sachi after a groom. - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Wow! Upon visiting John's puppy salon, I immediately appreciated the cleanliness of his establishment. I felt very comfortable leaving my puppy with him for a few hours-because when meeting John for the first time, he had two other dogs in there scheduled to get groomed and another one that he already finished with and they all looked very happy to be there. This was only my schnauzer's second haircut so I wanted to take him to someone that has had a lot of experience cutting schnauzers. Prior to his grooming, he looked more like a Maltese; now he looks like show quality schnauzer. I can't praise John enough for his wonderful work; he's keen to detail and doesn't cut corners. Highly recommended read more

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John is a great groomer...maybe even the best in this part of town. He does not rush haircuts at all which most groomers do. Our dog is not the easiest to deal with and has been to groomers who have shaved him and cut him pretty bad because he moves. Not here! All 4 haircuts have been amazing without the use of a shaver at all! It's hard to get an appointment but once you do you will not regret it. He even gives tips on how to groom between cuts which helps a bunch. read more

CleanDog - Wheaten cut! - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I cannot rave about John enough! What an incredibly kind human and incredible groomer. I accidentally shaved my double-coated Beagle mix to reduce heat, sans doing research. My concern was palpable and despite a busy schedule, John allowed me and Piper to come in and he helped me even her out and taught me so much about proper grooming. Her hair is growing in evenly & beautiful, and John was truly a knight in shining armor to the rescue of me and my sweet pup. read more

John is the best dog groomer in Chicago! I have been taking my dog, who is a mixed breed, to John since he opened. He is meticulous about grooming and he will get the mats out instead of shaving your dog's fur off. He gets your dog so clean that his baths last much longer than other groomers. He is so precise in his cuts that they grow out beautifully. Because John is such a perfectionist he spends a long time grooming the dogs, so make your appointment in advance because this sought after groomer books up fast! read more

CleanDog - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Clean Dog is right around the corner from me and John did a great job trimming my foster dog (Cane Corso/Mastiff)! Would definitely recommend! read more

John is the best at what he does. My dog is 10 years old and has never had a better groom. He was so gentle, took his time, and made my shi-poo the least anxious I've ever seen her during a drop off. He is worth every dollar he charges. His grooms are art. I love him!!! He will be honest with you about your pets behavior so don't get too sensitive. He's just being truthful and protecting your dog. read more

CleanDog - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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What a find! Half a block north of Grand on Ashland you will find an understated simple sign announcing CleanDog - I think the finest groomer in the Chicagoland area. I took my dog to CleanDog hoping they could save some of her hair because she had so much matted undercoat and every shop I brought her to told me she'd have to be shaved down. I knew it was true because my sister watched her while I was on vacation and bathed her several times without brushing her out. (I could have killed her - but that's another story...ugh)... So with little hope I went to CleanDog. John the groomer spent hours gently brushing her out. I couldn't believe my eyes when I picked her up - he did the impossible - she looked gorgeous! The facility is immaculate and tastefully done with high gloss hardwood floors and top of the line equipment (some of which he redesigned he explained) to groom your dog safely and to your specifications. John is very knowledgeable and will give your dog plenty of time to make her exquisite. If you're looking for a quick haircut this isn't for you. John doesn't rush through any dog which may not be for the client in a hurry. It won't matter to your dog if he has to wait alittle though cause they are in a relaxing atmosphere. There's a play area set up so the waiting dogs can play, lay on a bed or watch passersby out the storefront's windows. If cages aren't your dog's thing, this environment is terrific. John uses shampoos and colognes which could match my own in quality. His pricing is comparable to other Chicago grooming spots, but the atmosphere and his work top the rest four paws down! read more

I have been to quite a few groomers all over the city and was at my wits end trying to find someone that my dog likes and where he doesn't come home terrified afterwards....I found John at CleanDog based solely on Yelp reviews and he's amazing! I love that I can drop my dog off on my way to work, pick him up after work, and make an appointment with a week's notice. John is flexible and wonderful with my 20 lbs of spastic love. He keeps notes on appointment dates/results/etc so that I can say, "Just like last time" and my dog looks amazing. I feel just like Jennifer S. because John has definitely been getting more popular because he's so good at what he does. My dog loves going there, and I love the puppy perfume he gets to wear home. John is the best groomer I've taken my dog to and I feel like I can never move out of Chicago unless I can take him with me! I'd give 6 stars if it were possible! read more

John is wonderful. His location is clean, big, and dog-friendly. He is patient, works with you and your dog's specific wants/needs, and does fantastic work. Extremely happy and highly recommend. read more

There isn't much more I can say that everyone else hasn't already said. After a terrible cut at the local PetSmart, we took our 85lb Airedale to CleanDog, and the rest is history. John really takes his time and does a great job, leaves big ol' Rufus looking and smelling brand new, and you can tell all the dogs are happy to be there. A++++! read more

CleanDog - So fresh and so clean! - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Was a little put off that I had to be put on a wait list for 6 months before getting a first appointment, but I would be lying if I said it wasn't completely worth it. I used to have to peel my trembling dog off my body when he was going to other groomers, but after his first trip to John's place, everything changed. My dog tries to walk himself there now, and takes baths almost willingly at home. I would definitely say that if all you need is a summer shave-down, this is not the place to go -- just get some clippers on amazon. The price sounds like a lot more, but it turns out to be less because it lasts twice as long since it is done the right way (and I didn't even know what the right way was until I discovered John). read more

CleanDog - Always so happy after his cuts! - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

John is the best groomer all-around. He is excellent with my dog, who can sometimes be nervous and shaky as well as hard to keep still. John's work is meticulous and he even has pooch perfume! When my dog was done having a trim, John let him wander the apartment-like space and snooze on the big dog bed. He also played ball with him! Although it can be expensive (especially when my dog is matted), the dogs are happy (completely unlike Petsmart etc) and the work is fantastic. read more

I frequent CleanDog to buy gift certificates and John is the absolutely nicest man. He takes extraordinary pride in his work, which is evident in his shop and by the pups that go there. I usually walk my dog there and he always offers him a treat. If my pup needed groomed, I'd most definitely go to CleanDog. read more

When Lucy comes home from clean dog.. Her name is no longer stinky. It's "your such a CLEANDOG" I love this place and I also love how she is cared for while there. Thank you for always keeping her clean and loved as she deserves!!! Best groomer ever!! read more

CleanDog - CLEAN DOG! - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I am reluctant to write a review b/c I don't want everyone to know how excellent John/Cleandog is! He does a beautiful job, he takes very good care of the dogs while they are there and you can select a perfume or cologne for your dog when you pick him/her up. My pup has looked and smelled amazing for days after his grooming at Cleandog. read more

I have been going to CleanDog on Ashland since he opened. The facility is immaculate and your dog receives individual attention from the bath all the way through the last cut with Johns scissors. We really like the place because as others have mentioned our dogs are allowed to relax instead of being locked up in a cage all afternoon if they aren't on the table. The quality of the haircut is fantastic, no one else comes even close to the attention to detail and precision. In fact, our Vet often asks where we go because the inside of their ears are so clean. One thing I will say though, this place isn't for those that are looking for a salon haircut at Petsmart prices. You will have the best experience if you become a regular client (that doesn't mean bring in your hairy/matted dog once every 8 weeks) and schedule future appointments in advance - as you can see he is becoming very popular and difficult to get into. read more

John is hands down the best groomer in Chicago! Our shitzu always looks amazing after visiting and he is happy to go to his grooming. Since John is out on leave until December we have had to try out some new groomers. Nothing compares to his work. Can't wait to have him back soon! read more

CleanDog - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I noticed on here a couple negative reviews, most recently from No R. One thing that is wonderful about Yelp is that we can all provide our own objective opinion based on our experiences. That is a wonderful thing - I found Clean Dog through this service as well as many other vendors I now use on a regular basis. I feel the need to give a balanced opinion about John at Clean Dog. I am quite sure most potentially new customers are probably not aware that he is a one man business. He works six days a week, and in the six years I have been taking my dogs to him, he only went home sick one time and we had to reschedule. The reason he is a one man business because of the care he takes with every dog he grooms. Unfortunately that means there is little room in his schedule for quick appointments (like Petsmart or Petco are able to do). I have myself experienced falling out of sequence and needing to squeeze my dogs in when he can accommodate them. Also in the six year timeframe, he has never increased his rates for my dogs. He is definitely not the cheapest groomer in town, but takes great pride in his work. He completely fixed the coat of my long hair maltese that was damaged by Petsmart when she was a puppy. As long as he is in business, he will have many loyal customers, including me!! read more

John is absolutely THE BEST groomer in Chicago. I've taken my little Pomeranian, Foxxy, to several groomers and none of them come close to the quality of John's work. This facility is clean, modern, and Beautiful. The dogs always look relaxed and are either playing, lounging, or looking out the window. He is a one man show, so he books up quickly. His appointment calendar is testament to the work the he does. If you ever get the opportunity to take your pet to Clean Dog, jump on it! You'll never want anyone else to touch your dog again. John is professional, friendly, and has an excellent work ethic. I will be a loyal customer for as long as his doors are open. read more

I can't say enough how wonderful of a place Clean Dog is. My pup Dexter comes to see John for a nail trim and teeth brushing on monthly basis and we love how clean and professional his services are. He's so good with the pup during the services, makes him comfortable, which reassures me he's in good hands. And I love the treats, bandanas and the cologne that make my pup ready for a night out in the big city :) Thank you, John!!! read more

FAB-U-LOUS! I had called ahead to see if the shop would have time for a quick nail trim because the dog has been a beast with her claws. I try trimming them on my own and I get scared that I'm going to cut them too short and hurt her. I was so glad to hear that I could bring her in any time before they close. John the owner, was so great - he trimmed her nails and filed them down very quickly and we got to spray her with some doggy perfume to make her smell good and she got some treats. The prices are very reasonable. We will surely be back! read more

Book your appointment far ahead of time. He's a one-man show, so he fills up very quickly. read more

CleanDog - Pet Groomers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I have a 60 lbs pit who gets a bit worked up while trimming his nails and John is great with him. I've tried a few other places that are a bit closer and most of the time walk away with rough cut nails that scratch worse than when they were long. He takes a little sander to buff out and smooth his nails. Can't tell you how big of a difference little things like that make. Offers perfume/cologne and much appreciated treats every time read more

John is absolutely meticulous. We tried many groomers before finding Clean Dog. We have been with him for ten years and he always does a wonderful job!!!! read more

I recently rescued a new dog from a hoarding situation. Since I was unsure how she would do in a grooming appointment, I didn't want to take her just anywhere. I called John and told him this and he put me on a waiting list. I was pleasantly surprised when he called me the next day with an opening (due to a cancellation). The business lives up to the name and is immaculate, you could literally eat off the floor it's so clean. John is an artist and explained the whole process to me as he went. He even let me stay to watch to keep her calm. John easily spends 3 hours on each dog and doesn't cut corners or leave a single hair behind. Expect to pay for high quality work! read more

I don't know if John/Clean Dog is a good groomer but can comment he does not appear welcoming of new clients. I left a message and spoke with him earlier this week and he pretty much blew me off - it's pretty clear appointments occur at HIS convenience and not yours. This is not customer friendly but with his business I suppose it's his rules -- I am surprised he can get away with it in this climate. Secondly I also got the sense that he discriminates against non-purebred pups (such as my own) which is such a disheartening attitude. There are so many wonderful mixed breed dogs who need a good pampering every now and then. read more

First let me say I did not get service here, but after trying to schedule something, I was so turned off, I felt the need to write a review. I called asking to get a full groom for my dog (her mid-length to longish fur trimmed down to labrador length). I was told there is no availability until mid-July. Fine that sucks, but I was then lectured about how he doesn't like to trim dogs like that because, in his opinion, it is harmful for the dog and they're not meant to be trimmed that short. Okay great, you don't have availability and don't want to do the work for me, please let me hang up the phone. Nope, he keeps going on and on about grooming ethics and how he can't do it. While I appreciate that he has a point of view, that's all it is, a point of view. I'd prefer not to shave my dog down, but we also can't live 4 months of the year covered in fur. I've also spoken to my vet about it to make sure that I am not risking my dog's health or skin by shaving her down and have been given the okay since my dog is not outdoors for long periods of time. Be aware that a request for an appointment may result in a lecture trying to make you feel like a terrible unconcerned dog owner. read more

John, the owner of Clean Dog groomers did an amazing job on my Shihtzu, Gus, yesterday. Although I comb his hair daily, Gus had not had a hair cut in over 6 mos. His hair was long and there is ALOT of it! John sat with me and discussed the style and length I had in mind while my Gus sniffed his surroundings and got to know John. The salon is quiet, organized and smells fantastic too btw. When I returned a few hours later, I was met by my dog who was more fluffy and beautiful than I could've possibly hoped for. Even if you have to wait to get an appointment do it. It's well worth it. read more

I feel at odds about posting this review. John is the BEST groomer in the city. Say what you will about your own guy, but that's just because you have not met John and seen his genius. Clean Dog is super clean and looks more like an upscale barbershop. Previous places I took my Westie for grooming she would shake and try to leave with me. When we go to Clean Dog she just walks right in, sometimes even going straight into a crate (she is not a crated dog at home). I know because of John we have the best looking Westie. All the time we have other dog owners ask us where she gets groomed or wonder if I groom her myself (fat chance)...I reluctantly say Clean Dog. Please know my only hesitation in recommending is the difficulty getting an intial appointment. It is very hard to be a new customer...but might I say its totally worth the wait. Once you are in, make sure to book future spots. read more

I agree with the other two reviewers; CleanDog is amazing. John does is an excellent groomer. He uses high quality products, takes his time, and is extremely personable. I've taken my dog to two other groomers in the past (one was a another small local shop which was ok, the other was Petsmart, which was a disaster) and this experience was far superior. His rates are very reasonable ($60-$65) and he is very meticulous. read more

Great service! Not to mention its conveniently located at the end of my street. My pug charlie is quite prone to shedding and has some awesome doggy breath. I know it is time to get a cleaning when I can hear his nails click clack on the floor and catch on the carpet. It's funny because he can never sneak up to me, but also its a signal that its time for a cleaning. I feel like John really cares about Charlie and gives him the personal attention he needs. When I pick Charlie up he smells great and that cologne bar he has, is nice. I want to rub my face on Charlie he smells good for days! So glad I found this place! read more

Took my pug here for a nail trimming because the groomer close to my place closed down. We walked right in without having to make an appointment and John was friendly and handled Lady very well for how nervous she was. He even gave her a cute bandana to wear. We will definitely be coming back here soon! read more

Lulu got her first good hair cut! She looks and feels and smells beautiful! She really liked it there as well! I can not belive how great she looks! wow what a great job! She will be back! read more

Well, I am a picky person when it comes to hair cuts, whether it is for myself or my son, or, in this case, my dog. My little yorkie Rocco is in need of his first hair cut, and I am a little anxious. I don't want his first experience to traumatize him. I called up John, the owner, to talk about a puppy trim, and he was so nice and knowledgeable. I could tell he is a man who really cares about his craft. Yes, his craft. He gave me a detailed explanation of what he does and WHY. Yes, a reason behind not wanting to just do a clipper trim (as some owners insist on). Not only do I want my Rocco to look good, I want him to look right. Anyone who has had a bad hair day should understand. Yes, my dog is my baby :) read more

I am a very picky owner of a very picky Cavalier King Charles -Shamrock. After taking Shamrock to numerous groomers in Chicago all of which were awful experiences, I could not believe my good fortune when I found John at Clean Dog! This chic , stylish place is immaculate and John not only provides great, personalized customer service he is very talented at what he does--my long-haired cavalier has never looked better--I don't even like calling John a "groomer " he is more of a stylist who not only gives great shampoos but the most awesome blow-outs ever! read more

I've lived in Chicago almost 6 years and had yet to find a groomer I was satisfied with, that is until this afternoon. When I dropped off both my beagles this morning John was extremely welcoming and thorough. He seemed genuinely interested in my dogs and their overall well-being. A few hours later when I came to pick them up, my jaw honestly dropped at how good they looked! Their undercoats were practically nonexistent, their fur shining, and they smelled amazing :) I came and played with them and dont have a single dog hair on my clothes (guys that's like a really big deal). I've owned my dogs for 8 years, and I've never been so happy and satisfied with a grooming service in their lives. I highly recommend John, you won't be disappointed!! read more