How Often Should You Groom Your Dog? A Guide by Coat Type
One of the most common questions dog owners ask is: "How often should I take my dog to the groomer?"
The answer depends on much more than breed or size. Coat type, hair length, lifestyle, skin condition, and how often a dog is brushed at home all play an important role.
As a professional groomer, I believe regular grooming is about more than maintaining a beautiful haircut. It's about preventing discomfort, keeping the coat manageable, and making each grooming appointment a positive experience.
How Often Does Each Coat Type Need Professional Grooming?
Here are some general starting points.
1. Curly and Continuously Growing Coats — Every 4–6 Weeks
Examples: Poodles, many Doodles, and Bichon Frises.
Curly coats require consistent maintenance because loose hair can become trapped in the coat, creating tangles and mats.
These dogs often benefit from professional grooming every four to six weeks, depending on coat length and styling preferences.
At home: Brush and comb frequently, often daily for longer styles, paying special attention to the ears, legs, armpits, and areas behind the collar.
2. Long and Silky Coats — Every 4–8 Weeks
Examples: Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and Shih Tzus.
Long, silky coats can become tangled quickly, especially in areas where the hair rubs against clothing, collars, or harnesses.
Regular grooming helps maintain coat length, cleanliness, and comfort.
At home: Frequent, often daily, brushing and combing helps prevent tangles.
3. Double-Coated Dogs — Often Every 6–12 Weeks
Examples: Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and Pomeranians.
Double-coated dogs have an outer coat and a dense undercoat that helps protect and insulate their bodies.
They benefit from thorough brushing, appropriate bathing, drying, and removal of loose undercoat. Some need more frequent appointments during seasonal shedding.
Routine shaving of a healthy double coat is generally not recommended without a specific reason.
At home: Brush several times a week and more frequently during heavy shedding periods.
4. Short and Smooth Coats — Often Every 6–12 Weeks
Examples: Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, Beagles, and Boxers.
Short hair doesn't mean no grooming!
These dogs still shed and can benefit from regular bathing, gentle brushing, nail trimming, ear checks, and skin care.
At home: Gentle weekly brushing is a useful starting point, along with regular checks of the skin, paws, and nails.
5. Wire Coats — Often Every 6–10 Weeks
Examples: Schnauzers and many Terriers.
Wiry coats have their own grooming requirements. Depending on the breed and desired finish, grooming may include clipping, trimming, or hand-stripping.
Hand-stripping is a specialized technique that should be performed when appropriate for the dog's coat and comfort.
At home: Regular brushing and combing helps maintain the coat between appointments.
Grooming Isn't Only About Haircuts
Even dogs that don't need frequent haircuts still need regular attention to:
- Nail length and paw comfort
- Skin and coat condition
- Ear hygiene
- Loose undercoat and shedding
- Tangles and matting
Many dogs need nail maintenance approximately every three to four weeks, although nail growth and natural wear vary.
Signs Your Dog May Need Grooming Sooner
Don't wait for the next scheduled appointment if you notice:
- Tangling or matting
- Nails becoming too long
- Excessive shedding or a packed undercoat
- Dirt or unpleasant odor that persists
- Hair interfering with movement or visibility
If you notice persistent itching, redness, sores, or unusual skin odor, contact your veterinarian rather than relying on grooming alone.
Why I Prefer a Consistent Grooming Schedule
In my experience, dogs often do better when grooming becomes a familiar routine.
Regular visits help me get to know each dog's personality, coat, preferences, and comfort level.
Some dogs are relaxed throughout the process. Others need short breaks, reassurance, or a slower approach.
I don't believe every dog should be groomed according to the same schedule — or rushed to achieve a perfect haircut.
Comfort, patience, and individual attention always come first.
Looking for Dog Grooming in Lombard, Illinois?
At Jane Grooming, I offer personalized grooming appointments in a private, calm environment.
Whether your dog has a curly Poodle coat, long silky hair, a thick undercoat, or short smooth fur, we can discuss a grooming routine that works for your pet.
Jane Grooming — Lombard, IL
Gentle care. Individual attention. Happy pets.
Book an appointment at janegrooming.com.
The intervals above are general guidelines, not fixed rules. Your dog's individual needs may differ.