Suds 'N Scissors has been a Carmel fixture for 45 years, and Todd Harris still runs it with the kind of attention that keeps people coming back. The grooming services here are solid—experienced groomers who actually take time to understand how your dog handles being handled, which makes a real difference when you’ve got a nervous or particular dog.

Beyond the grooming chair, there’s a decent boutique with actual useful stuff. You’ll find grooming supplies that make sense, dog toys that aren’t just fluff, and treats that are worth the money. Spa products line the shelves too if you want to do some home care between appointments. It’s nice to be able to grab what you need in one spot rather than hunting around Carmel’s shops.

The place has a warm atmosphere—the kind where it’s clear the staff genuinely likes working with dogs. They’ll ask about your dog’s temperament and what’s worked or hasn’t worked before. If your dog gets anxious during grooming, they notice and adjust. You can actually relax in the shop while your dog’s being worked on, which beats pacing around outside.

Carmel itself is dog-friendly, so you can easily make an afternoon of it. Walk Ocean Avenue before or after your appointment, hit Devendorf Park if you need to burn off some energy, or grab lunch at one of the cafes with outdoor seating that allow dogs. The whole village is compact enough that you’re not far from anywhere.

The grooming appointment will take the normal amount of time depending on your dog’s size and coat, so plan for a couple of hours if you want to explore while they work. Todd and his team know what they’re doing, and they’re not rushing dogs through just to hit a quota. That’s worth the drive if you’re anywhere nearby in Monterey County.