How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?

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Why Grooming Frequency Matters

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I taking my dog to the groomer often enough?” — you’re not alone. Grooming isn’t just about keeping your pup looking cute for Instagram. It’s about their comfort, skin health, and even their overall well-being.

As a professional groomer for nearly a decade, I’ve seen it all — from perfectly maintained coats to pups who’ve gone a little too long between visits (hello, mystery tangles!). The truth is, how often your dog needs grooming depends on more than just their breed. Coat type, lifestyle, and even the season can all play a role.

Factors That Affect Grooming Needs

Before we get into specific breeds, let’s talk about the main things that determine how often your dog should be groomed:

• Coat Type – Long, curly, or double coats need more frequent attention than short, smooth coats.

• Lifestyle – Dogs who love rolling in the mud or swimming will need more upkeep.

• Health & Skin Conditions – Sensitive skin or allergies may require special products and more frequent baths.

• Seasonal Changes – Some breeds “blow” their coats in spring and fall, which means extra brushing and de-shedding.

Breed-by-Breed Grooming Frequency Guide

Here’s a general guide based on coat type. Keep in mind, every dog is unique — so use this as a starting point, not a hard rule.

Short-Haired Breeds

(Beagle, Boxer, Dalmatian, Doberman)

• Frequency: Bath and brush every 6–8 weeks

• Why: Short coats don’t mat easily, but they still shed and collect dirt.

• Pro Tip: A rubber curry brush works wonders to remove loose hair and boost circulation.

Long-Haired Breeds

(Shih Tzu, Maltese, Afghan Hound, Yorkshire Terrier)

• Frequency: Full groom every 4–6 weeks, brushing at home several times a week

• Why: Long coats tangle and mat quickly, especially around ears, legs, and belly.

• Pro Tip: If you can’t commit to daily brushing, consider a shorter “puppy cut” to make maintenance easier.

Curly or Wavy Coats

(Poodle, Bichon Frise, Labradoodle, Portuguese Water Dog)

• Frequency: Full groom every 4–6 weeks, brushing at home 2–3 times a week

• Why: Curly coats mat from the skin outward, so tangles can hide until they’re severe.

• Pro Tip: Use a slicker brush and metal comb — the comb will catch mats the brush misses.

Double-Coated Breeds

(Golden Retriever, Husky, German Shepherd, Border Collie)

• Frequency: Bath and deshed every 6–8 weeks, with extra brushing during shedding season

• Why: The undercoat traps loose fur, dirt, and dander, which can cause skin issues if not removed.

• Pro Tip: Never shave a double coat — it can damage the coat’s natural insulation.

Signs It’s Time for a Groom (Even If It’s “Early”)

• Mats or tangles you can’t easily brush out

• A “doggy” smell that lingers after a bath

• Nails clicking on the floor

• Excessive shedding or hair clumps around the house

• Eye discharge or dirty ears

Pro Groomer Tips to Stretch Time Between Appointments

• Brush in small sessions — 5 minutes a day is better than an hour once a month.

• Wipe paws and belly after walks to keep dirt from building up.

• Use a detangling spray before brushing to prevent breakage.

• Check trouble spots — behind ears, under legs, and around the tail.

The Grooming–Health Connection

Regular grooming isn’t just cosmetic. It can help spot:

• Skin infections

• Ear problems

• Lumps or bumps

• Fleas and ticks

• Overgrown nails affecting posture

Many of these issues are easier (and cheaper) to treat when caught early.

In closing...think of grooming like dental cleanings — regular visits keep small problems from becoming big ones. Whether your dog is a low-maintenance short coat or a high-maintenance fluffball, sticking to a schedule will keep them healthier, happier, and looking their best.

Ready to book your dog’s next appointment? Let’s get them looking (and feeling) amazing.