How Often Should Dogs Be Groomed?
- Em
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
Grooming is an essential part of keeping your dog healthy and comfortable. But how often should you schedule grooming sessions? The answer depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, lifestyle, and overall health. Regular grooming not only keeps your pup looking great but also prevents skin issues, matting, and other health concerns.
Factors That Determine Grooming Frequency
Not all dogs require the same grooming schedule. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that influence how often your dog should be groomed:
Coat Type: Different coat types require different levels of maintenance. Long-haired and curly-haired breeds need more frequent grooming compared to short-haired breeds.
Shedding Level: Dogs that shed heavily may need more brushing to remove loose fur and prevent tangles.
Activity Level: Dogs that love outdoor adventures may get dirtier faster and require more baths and brushing.
Skin Conditions: If your dog has allergies or skin sensitivities, regular grooming can help prevent irritation and infections.
Personal Preference: Some owners prefer to keep their dogs in a specific style, requiring more frequent trims and upkeep.
How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?
While every dog is unique, here’s a general guideline based on coat type:
Short-Haired Breeds (e.g., Beagles, Boxers, Labradors)
Brushing: Once a week to remove loose hair and dirt.
Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks, or as needed.
Professional Grooming: Not usually required unless the dog has skin concerns or excessive shedding.
Medium-Length Coats (e.g., Border Collies, Golden Retrievers)
Brushing: 2-3 times per week to prevent tangles and matting.
Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks, or as needed.
Professional Grooming: Every 6-8 weeks for trimming and deshedding treatments.
Long-Haired & Double-Coated Breeds (e.g., Shih Tzus, Huskies, Samoyeds)
Brushing: Daily to prevent mats and tangles.
Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks, depending on activity level.
Professional Grooming: Every 4-6 weeks to maintain coat health and prevent excessive shedding.
Curly or Wavy Coats (e.g., Poodles, Cavoodles, Bichon Frises)
Brushing: Daily to prevent matting.
Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks.
Professional Grooming: Every 4-6 weeks for trimming and maintenance.
Hairless Breeds (e.g., Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli)
Brushing: Not required, but skin care is essential.
Bathing: Weekly to remove oil buildup and prevent skin infections.
Professional Grooming: Rarely needed, but regular skin moisturising is important.
Signs Your Dog Needs Grooming
Even if you’re following a set schedule, keep an eye out for these signs that your dog may need a grooming session sooner:
✔ Excessive shedding or loose fur around the house.
✔ Mats or tangles forming in the coat.
✔ A strong odour, even after regular baths.
✔ Dirt, debris, or grease buildup on the fur.
✔ Overgrown nails that click on the floor.
✔ Ear wax buildup or unpleasant ear odour.
✔ Irritated or flaky skin.
The Benefits of Regular Grooming
Routine grooming does more than just keep your dog looking good – it also has important health benefits:
Prevents Skin Issues: Regular baths remove dirt and allergens that can cause irritation.
Reduces Shedding: Brushing helps manage loose fur before it ends up all over your home.
Detects Health Problems Early: Grooming allows you to check for lumps, bumps, or signs of infections.
Keeps Nails Healthy: Trimmed nails prevent pain and joint issues.
Enhances Comfort: A well-groomed coat prevents overheating and discomfort.
How often you groom your dog depends on their coat, activity level, and overall health. Regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and looking their best. If you’re unsure about your dog’s grooming needs, our team is here to help! At Goodna Veterinary Surgery, we offer professional grooming services to ensure your dog’s coat and skin stay in top condition. Get in touch with us to schedule a grooming session today!
📞 Call us on +61 7 3288 1822 to book an appointment!