There is no single grooming schedule that suits every dog. A Poodle and a Beagle have very different coats, and a dog who swims every weekend needs more attention than one who mostly naps on the sofa. Coat type is the best place to start, then you can adjust for your dog’s lifestyle.
Grooming schedule by coat type
Curly and wool coats
Poodles, Doodles and Bichons shed very little, so loose hair stays caught in the coat and forms mats. Most do well with a full groom every four to six weeks and brushing several times a week between visits.
Long, silky coats
Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos and Maltese tangle easily, particularly behind the ears, under the legs and around the collar. Daily brushing is ideal if the coat is kept long. A shorter trim every four to eight weeks makes life easier for many families.
Double coats
Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Huskies have a dense undercoat that sheds heavily. Brush at least weekly, and consider professional de-shedding every six to ten weeks, more often during heavy shedding.
Short, smooth coats
Pugs, Beagles, Dobermanns and many Indie dogs are simple to maintain, but they still shed and pick up dirt. A weekly rub with a rubber brush and a bath and brush every few weeks is usually plenty.
Signs your dog is due for a groom
- Tangles or matted patches you cannot easily brush out
- Nails clicking on hard floors
- A stronger smell than usual, even shortly after a wash
- Hair covering the eyes or collecting dirt around the paws
- More scratching or head shaking than normal
Scratching and head shaking can also point to skin or ear problems, so speak to your vet if they continue or if the skin looks sore.
Things that change the schedule
Lifestyle matters as much as breed. Dogs who swim, play in mud or spend a lot of time outdoors usually need washing more often. In warm, humid weather, a thick or long coat that stays damp can become uncomfortable, so make sure it is dried properly. Older dogs may prefer shorter, more frequent sessions, as standing for a long time can be tiring.
What to do at home between visits
- Brush regularly. Use a tool suited to the coat, and work right down to the skin, not just across the top.
- Check as you go. Run your hands over your dog and look for ticks, lumps, cuts or sore spots.
- Handle the paws and ears. A few seconds a day makes grooming far less stressful later on.
- Avoid over-bathing. Washing too often with an unsuitable shampoo can dry out the skin.
Not sure where your dog fits? Tell us the breed and coat condition, and we will suggest a routine that suits you both.