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Dirty Dogs
Categories: Pets Pet Services Pet Groomers Pets Pet Stores Pet Groomers, Pet Stores [Edit]
Torrey Hills Center4639 Carmel Mountain Rd, Ste 101
San Diego, CA 92130
Neighborhood: Torrey Hills
(858) 259-3647
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 8 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 7 pm
22 reviews for Dirty Dogs
22 reviews in English
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Review from Steve Y.
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
1/2/2012 5 photos
I have a rule about MOST places (hotels and restaurants primarily), but it is NEVER to give five stars, but I have no choice but to give Dirty Dogs five stars and it is because they excelled in every way when it came to making the two most important members of our family comfortable: Levi & Shlomo (the two pugs), yes there is a boyfriend in the picture too, but the boys are my pride and joy.
Service: truly, it doesn't get better than the service we had. We took Levi & Shlomo to Dirty Dogs for their weekly (now biweekly bath and that is because the person on duty said only bathe them every two weeks when every other groomer I've ever talked to said weekly was required) - ever hear of somebody so honest in business that they actually said NOT to use them as much as possible? Exactly: 5
Bathing the boys is easy for one and a little more challenging for the other. Levi loves water and has jumped in pools everywhere from home to the Four Seasons fountain and the fountain near NYC City Hall. He loves water so whether it is the beach or getting a bath, he's much easier to get into the water. Shlomo is a little more difficult, but when the water is warm and the mood is right: even Shlomo will take to the water - be it the ocean or the pool. Having said all of that, the baths we give them at the self-service portion of Dirty Dogs is really quite wonderful.
First, the place is spotless. There is a place nearer to us that we've taken the boys to, but when it comes to cleaning the dogs I think that if you take them to a place to get cleaned that the place they are getting cleaned in should be clean itself and Dirty Dogs is spotless. Whether we were first in the place or if we followed behind another dog couple, they always made sure that we were cleaning our dogs in a place that others would clean their own. Kudos to the staff for keeping it all wonderful.
Second, and most importantly, is service and there is nothing better than having people around that not only know how to care for animals, but to be able to help us when we needed it. I have to admit that I don't know enough about dogs to be able to clean their glans (not the happiest of subjects) and its always been one of those things that I'd rather not have learned because people made it seem not very simple or easy. Well, when we got showed how to do it by one of the groomers, it turns out it is quite easy. I was very happy for it too because the boys needed it. He didn't just come out and do it, though, he patiently talked me and showed me how to do it myself. I can do it now and that is great.
Third, it's close to everything that you need to make an afternoon with the dogs. First to dog beach in Del Mar, then to Dirty Dogs then maybe a coffee at Starbucks or whatever. It's convenient and a place that I don't mind taking the most important little guys in my life to.
Thank you Dirty Dogs and you've got a customer for life if you keep it up (I know you will). -
Review from Kerra A.
Myke is a great groomer. He remembered meeting our dog Boba at one of the dog fairs we attended. So that was pretty cool. So we've only requested for him to be her groomer if Boba ever needed to go back for grooming.
We also like coming here because they carry My Perfect Pet and Stella & Chewy's brand dog food.
Kind of pricey, i wish they had like a frequent customer card or gave loyal customers coupons.
They have samples of food behind the register.
When you leave, make sure to check your receipt! I got a coupon one time to save 10% at a Dog Festival, and the girl forgot to give me the discount. When I went back to show her, she was kind of like "oh well, you can use it next time"...but by the next time I came back...the coupon had already expired. I can't remember her name, but I remember her face. From then on I made sure she wasn't the cashier of the day if I was going to make a purchase. -
Review from Katherine S.
La Jolla, CA
11/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Yay! Another "Dirty dogs" that is close to my house instead of all the way out in Cardiff. Hooray! My Jiggly Puff looks adorable after being groomed here. They know what they're doing , and are always very patient with my tiny but freaked out dog. Everyone who works there loves dogs, which makes me feel better about leaving my pride and joy alone with them :)
She doesn't seem too traumatized after being groomed here, and she is finally clean and de-knotted! yay! Also, they do a good job with cleaning up her, erm, private area. I know, its gross to talk about, but dogs need it!
Hooray for Dirty Dogs! Ps. they have an awesome rewards program that lets you earn points every time you go, which ends up being worth $$ when you have enough. Its a nice way to show customer appreciation. -
Review from Elissa K.
San Diego, CA
1/30/2012
Twice now the groomer has yelled and intimidated my dog. They need more staff. Save your money and go to petsmart where they are humane and well staffed so 2 can work on 1 dog if needed. Yelling at dogs makes it worse. Also the dog park needs to keep the door that does not have a back up door locked so dogs don't get out. Most people mindlessly use the unsafe door risking runaways.
Please, do not have your dogs nails filed or anal glands done there (DD). OK to shop there if you want to pay the price.
They did give him a complimentary bath because I must have seemed concerned. -
Review from Stephen A.
San Diego, CA
1/28/2012
Terrible. This is the most expensive place for both pet products and grooming I've ever seen in my life. I've brought my dogs to be groomed here at it was at least twice as expensive as Pet Smart. The head of their grooming department is this big hairless guy with piercings that the dogs actually hate or at least dislike very much. I've heard that he's been bit several times by multple dogs and dogs have a special sense about people. You would think that he'd get smart and find a different job.
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Review from TD B.
San Diego, CA
8/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
I liked this place. Excellent grooming services, very clean and friendly. The retail portion had lots of unique items, including a good selection of holistic and natural products along with some of the more mainstream commercial brands.
The do-it- yourself doggie bathing stations were clean and big enough for my big ol goofy lab. I'll be back! -
Review from Chloe M.
San Francisco, CA
6/9/2011
Wow! I'm in awe! Great hidden treasure for your trusty companion. Lots of healthy choices, fabulous groomer named Myke who squeezed my pooch in last minute, night before Thanksgiving, owner knows his products and never pushes so if you have questions...ask away! Prices were extremely reasonable for their quality & excellent grooming service. I only wish I lived closer. Will definitely be back whenever I visit. =)
ps
This has been sitting in my queue since holiday 2010. My phone won't allow me to post. -
Review from E F.
San Diego, CA
9/20/2011
I really really want to love this place because the concept of dropping your dog off with no appointment for a bath is genius...but I don't think my dog likes it all. I am sure every pet owner thinks this, but I truly think my dog is pretty smart ( I know, I know). Anyways, I had taken him about ten times to get a bath and he was always happy and excited to go, smelled great and was fine when I picked him up.
Then one day when I picked him up he was shaking a ton, then went right outside and had diarrhea all over the grass. I thought maybe he ate something weird, but he was just terrified and upset. The next time I took him he started pulling away when we walked up to the door, then whined and shook uncontrollably once I got inside. One of the groomers came up to say hello and my dog literally crouched down on the floor and shied away from the groomer and his whole little body shook even more. Weirdest behavior ever! I have never seen my dog do that, even at the vet that gives him shots, he doesn't care. He was SO SO scared to be back at this place. Maybe this is crazy, but he was either molested or hit or something because he was suddenly super terrified to be here.
I hate to tell this story because I have never gotten anything but great service, the people behind the front desk and the groomers seem so nice. It might have been another dog that made him so scared, but I just wanted people with sensitive puppies to be aware - since you don't really know what happens after you drop them off. -
Review from Christine A.
San Diego, CA
1/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
We went for the first time yesterday and they did a great job! My little Maltese-Poodle-Terrier was attacked by a large dog 3 months ago and since then he's been very wary of other dogs/people and is terrified to be in a place with lots of other dogs and humans. I was very worried to see how my dog would react to his first grooming appointment, but once in the hands of Myke, he stopped shaking and seemed to completely trust the staff. I was really very surprised that he was so calm during the initial bath/wash.
There was no wait, Myke greeted us as soon as we walked in. The price was $60 which is average, not too high, not too low. They clipped his nails, squeezed his gland, and did a perfect cut, just the way we wanted. An hour after we dropped my dog off, they called us to let us know he was ready and he emerged un-traumatized, happy, and looking oh so cute! Thanks Myke! -
Review from stacey j.
San Diego, CA
6/28/2011
Very friendly staff. Was a little surprised when asked for a tip when I just had my dogs nails clipped though- doesn't seem like a tippable service if you ask me. Also- 15 bucks isn't that cheap for nail clipping..
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Review from Zheilla R.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 1/22/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Okay I know i previously rated this place really high, but on our visit today, I'd like to say I am less than satisfied!
Last time we visited we did the do-it yourself for $18 and got our dog's nails dremmeled too. This time at check out, they charged us $18 (each, we had two dogs) for the wash PLUS $15 (each dog) for the nail trim! (for you math majors, that's $33 PER dog, or $66 TOTAL!!)
Now, please note they charge $36 for a full wash where THEY wash your dog and trim the nails. So basically we saved a whole $3 per dog and did all the work. Lame!
When they came along and asked if we wanted the nails done, I happily agreed, assuming it was just like last time, and part of the $18 deal. I wish they would have warned me that this, 1. WAS not included, and 2. That it was a FREAKIN' $15 service.
Now, yes, I know it does say on the sign when you're paying that nails are $15 amongst a million other things (I only know now because I scoured the signs in a fury as the lady announced the total price as we were checking out), so I guess I'll know for the future, but it irritates me that there is no consistency and that last time there was no charge, and that there was no warning from the staff there at the time of service.
On the website under the do-it- yourself deal it says, "* We have available other grooming supplies, cotton balls, ear cleaners, clippers". - but wish I would have known there was a $15 upcharge for the dremmel. I woulda done it myself.
And on a final note, although I am sure she had the best intentions, when I questioned the cashier about the additional charges, her response was, "oh I guess you got lucky!" No sunshine, you guys'll be lucky if we ever come back!
I suggest they have a reasonable $5 upgrade that you can get to have the dog's nails filed when you're already opting to wash the dog yourself, but at $15 per dog, on a service that took all of 2 minutes to do, $15 is a BIT much.
Grrrrrr!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/31/2010
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!!
We have two dogs, and have brought each one on two separate occasions.… Read more »
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Review from Tim S.
10/14/2008 1 photo
Dirty Dogs should be commended for becoming an instant player in the Torrey Hills community. Since their summer 2008 opening, I've been impressed with the events they've organized. A few outside vendors were invited to take part in the grand opening and came loaded with free samples to take home. There was also a Wine & Yappitizers promotion run in partnership with the nearby A Taste of Italy restaurant where owners were invited to come with their dogs to dine and mingle. The store has also hosted German Sheppard animal rescue events. There are weekly Q&A sessions with a local event as well. The email newsletter you can sign up for is very informative. These are all above-and-beyond services provided by small pet store.
The store itself is divided into two sections. The front of the store is where pet toys, supplies and food are kept. Dirty Dogs offers a good selection of organic pet food. A dog named Moe can also be found often in the front of the store. Pets are welcome to come into the store and meet Moe, as well as browse through the toys. Your pet can usually get some free treat samples as well. The back of the store has scrubbing tubs where you can give your dog a nice bath. This is the one service offered by Dirty Dogs that I don't see myself using, because of the price. You can do the bath yourself for $18, or have the employees at the store do it for $36. I might also add that doing it at home in your own bathtub is free. There is a large off-leash dog park just next to the shopping center that is great to take a dog too either before or after a trip to Dirty Dogs.
The staff at Dirty Dogs is very friendly and very good with animals. They've already provided me with some great recommendations for what to feed my dog, and what toys might last the longest in his destructive little mouth.
If my 1 year old beagle could type, I'm sure he'd write the same rousing review for Dirty Dogs.Listed in: My Old San Diego Neighborhood
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Review from Leanne T.
Phoenix, AZ
5/3/2010
If you need a groomer, then this is your place!
Alivia is so patient and helpful. Not only is she great with dogs, but cats as well!
My cat Lola (or as we like to call her "spawn of satan") does NOT like to be bathed, or have her nails clipped what-so-ever, but Alivia always manages her perfectly!
I highly recommend Alivia for any pet grooming needs! -
Review from Jill S.
San Diego, CA
1/24/2009
We go to Dirty Dogs weekly, and the staff is incredibly friendly. We kept hoping a store like this would open in the Torrey Hills shopping center, so when we saw the "Coming Soon" sign we were thrilled.
There are tons of dog lovers in the area that go to the dog park nearby. The location choice was genius on their part.
The bully sticks are a little expensive. Also, we wish they carried rib bones (we have to make special trips to Pet People to get those). They have an amazing selection of treats and food. Oliver loves the frozen bones.
The stafff gave Oliver a bath for $36 ("We-Do-It-For-U-Scrub"). It took one hour, just like they said. Oliver seemed calm and pleased. I liked that the staff was so comfortable and confident about taking him even though he is a sixty pounder.
Overall, it's a clean, fresh, organized store that is friendly and knowledgeable. Oliver is certainly a fan! -
Review from Natasha C.
San Diego, CA
9/6/2011
So I took my dogs to Dirty Dogs and they took so long to clean my dogs. Once they called me to pick up my dogs, I was no where near the store and came an hour later. They wanted to charge me for "babysitting my dogs!!!!". So, be careful when taking your dogs to this place and READ THE FINE PRINT!!!! They charge for EVERY LITTLE DETAIL!!!! They claim they have great coupons, but there is really NO DEAL!!!!!! Be careful when you think you are spending $36 on your dogs grooming, when they add all these additions and charge you more!!! This place is a rip off!!!
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Review from Nicole B.
San Diego, CA
8/28/2010
Excellent dog grooming. Worth the cost. Friendly staff. We only take our dog here
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Review from Yellow S.
San Diego, CA
6/10/2010 1 photo
I just picked up my Puma from Dirty Dogs (they groom cats too :-) and I am super happy with the service; She looks and smells great! I have never taken my baby to a groomer before so I was nervous for her but the staff there said she was very calm and well-behaved. That says a lot to me about their approach with the animals. I highly recommend this place!
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Review from Michelle A.
San Diego, CA
4/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went here last week. Normally don't write reviews but i needed for this case. Called and was quoted incorrectly at 50.00 which included wash, ear cleaning, anal gland expression, blueberry facial, nail drimmel, haircut, bow/tie, for my dog then got to the store at 20minutes later and they wanted to charge me 70.00 with a haircut also told me over the phone that Javier was going to work on my dog but Susan came out to meet us instead and will do his groom (no problem). Lady over the counter just stared-don't know if she was the owner. Other girl who I spoke with over the phone pretended I never spoke to her! Overall first time meeting and experience was terrible albeit they tried to be "nice." will update after my dog is done with his grooming in about an hour so they say. Not sure whether I want to come back. I really want to like this place.
BTW, cute dog greeted my dog at the entrance which I thought was nice!
Not even an hour as said, about 35 minutes later they called me to let me know my dog was done. I got the store to pick him up and waited for a few minutes until I was greeted or even acknowledged by anyone. So the "lady" as mentioned earlier saw me standing at the counter but never greeted me just looked and continued to do whatever she was doing stocking the shelf and the other gal finally looked up from unpacking whatever it was from boxes and greeted me and asked how she could help me...in the meantime the other "lady" finally greets me and at this point I'm"m even more annoyed so I just tell the gal in front of me that I am here to pick up my dog. She then tells me my total and asks me if I wanted to leave a tip! NO!!! I just want my dog and go...another few minutes pass by she goes to the back and I hear her say "she's here to pick up that one." and that is referring to my dog instead of calling him by his name...I am even more pissed! Susan brings my dog out...he seems happy...he seems clean...BUT I WILL NOT BE BACK!!!! -
Review from Lisa M.
San Diego, CA
3/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
My experience here has been outstanding. The employees have all gone above and beyond to help me try and find the right food for my super picky yorkie! They are never in a hurry with me and my millions of questions! From giving me samples to speaking to reps for me! I just love this store! Also they carry a great variety of all the best foods and treats so there is lots to choose from. A few weeks ago I took my baby to get groomed for the first time by Mike. I was a nervous wreck but Mike was really nice, had me laughing and at ease and I was able to leave, grab a Starbucks and relax! I've got to add that it seemed like Mike gave my girl a hairstyle. Not just a super straight regular cut. I think he styled her! She looked adorable!!! For sure I am calling Mike again when she needs another cut. Dirty Dogs also offers a frequent buyer type points card which I use with all my purchases. Basically the points are turned into $$$ that you can use anytime for anything! AWESOME! Big thanks to all the employees at Dirty Dogs!!! You guys are the best!
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Review from Olive A.
San Jose, CA
5/1/2010
my husband and i are moving in the area so we decided to check out the local shopping plaza. i was extremely excited to see that there was a pet store. i was even more thrilled with the friendly staff. there were two younger guys that welcomed us and even took the time to give us a tour. i was more than pleased with their selection. they even have my pups' dog food, which is not available at all stores.
we'll definitely frequent this store for all my pups' doggie needs, including food, treats, bath and grooming. see you soon Dirty Dogs! -
Review from Lindsay H.
San Diego, CA
12/13/2009 1 Check-in Here
This is only the second dog groomers i've been to, but compared to my first experience, this place was like heaven. They were very personal and friendly and the place was clean and bright. There are lots of great dog products in the store and my dog loves the treats i bought her. In an hour and half, my dog was looking clean and beautiful and happy as a clam. They recommended a product for my dog's tear staining and a couple months later, it has drastically improved! the cut has lasted several months and my dog is still adorable :)
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Review from Tracy C.
San Diego, CA
8/27/2010
I've been going to Dirty Dogs for the past 2 years getting food for my dog. But recently, I had an incident where I was running late for the groomer's appt. I called, and was told by a nice young man to go ahead and call back when I was able to get there, and that it was not a problem. When I called back again, the owner answered and started chastising me..telling me that it she lost "money and other appts" because of customers "like me". She kept chastising me, treating me like a 5 yr old who didn't know better. It was disrespectful and utterly amazing that the owner who wants to keep business at her store would have the audacity to say those things to a paying customer. Even though I was trying to do the right thing and notify them of my lateness, she was rude and lacked any customer service. I will be finding a new groomer and a new place to purchase my dog's food.
