How Often Should Your Pup Be Groomed? A Breakdown by Coat Type

Let’s talk grooming! Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking adorable (although that’s definitely a perk). It’s a vital part of keeping your furry friend healthy and comfortable. Whether your pup is a floofy Shih Tzu or a slick-coated Doberman, they all need a grooming routine tailored to their coat type. Let’s break it down!

Why Grooming Matters More Than You Think

Grooming isn’t just a “spa day” for your pup—it’s an opportunity to check on their overall health. Groomers often see your dog more frequently than your vet does, and because we get up close and personal with your pup’s skin and coat, we’re often the first to spot potential problems like skin irritations, infections, or new lumps and bumps.

Plus, grooming helps prevent matting—those nasty tangles that can lead to discomfort, skin problems, and even restricted blood flow in severe cases. Imagine if your foot or ear was tangled and numb for four months… ouch!

High Maintenance Hair: Shih Tzus, Maltese, Poodles & Other Hair-Growing Breeds

These pups have hair that grows (and grows…and grows), which means regular grooming is essential.

• Recommended Schedule: Every 3–6 weeks

• If your dog has long hair and/or you struggle with brushing at home, shoot for every 3 weeks

• If your pup has a shorter cut and you’re on top of at-home maintenance, you might stretch it to 6–8 weeks

Show dogs might even get a full grooming session once or twice a week. Fancy!

Doodles & Other Shedding Curly Coats

Let’s bust a myth: Yes, Doodles do shed. But like Poodles, they often can’t shed properly—so the loose hair gets tangled in their coat and mats form fast.

• Recommended Schedule: Every 3–6 weeks

• These coats need regular brushing and blow drying to avoid matting—especially after baths, swims, or rainy walks.

• Similar coat types: Portuguese Water Dogs, Old English Sheepdogs, Lagotto Romagnolos

Tip: Wet hair mats faster. Always dry and brush thoroughly after your pup gets wet!

Long Double Coats: Newfies, Great Pyrenees, Bernese Mountain Dogs & Saint Bernards

These majestic fluff balls have dense double coats that require serious maintenance.

• Brushing/Blowouts: Weekly (at least)

• Grooming: Every 2–10 weeks, depending on coat condition

• If your pup has been shaved and you're trying to restore their coat, start with grooming every 1–2 weeks

• Dogs who get wet often or aren’t brushed regularly will need more frequent grooming (every 5–6 weeks)

Healthy coats + regular brushing = longer gaps between grooms!

Medium Double Coats: Labs, Huskies, German Shepherds

These pups shed seasonally, and their coats are lower maintenance—but still need attention!

• Recommended Grooming: Every 8–12 weeks

• Brushing: Once a week

• Best time to groom? During seasonal coat blows—early spring and fall, plus a follow-up groom a few weeks later

Twice a year, these pups will “blow” their coat—and you’ll know it by the tumbleweeds of hair around your house!

Low-Maintenance Short Coats: Dobermans, Pit Bulls, Some Chihuahuas

These sleek-coated dogs don’t need as much professional grooming, but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook completely.

• At-Home Baths: As needed when dirty or stinky

• Professional Grooming: Every 2–4 months if they’re tough to bathe at home

• Bonus Tip: Dogs with skin sensitivities, allergies, or yeast issues may benefit from weekly baths (talk to your vet!)

Short hair doesn’t mean no care—watch for skin issues and make sure to dry thoroughly after baths.

Hairless Breeds: Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli

No fur? No problem—just a different type of care.

• Recommended Routine: Weekly baths to keep the skin clean and moisturized

• Use dog-safe sunscreen for protection from the sun!

Think skincare routine, not fur care!

Quick Grooming Tips for All Dogs

• Nails: Every 1–2 weeks

• Ears & Teeth: Check at least twice a week

• Body Checks: Run your hands over your dog weekly to feel for lumps, bumps, or anything unusual

• Regular Brushing: Don't miss out! This is the perfect bonding activity to add to your nightly TV time. And it keeps your pups coat healthy to boot.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Grooming isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on your dog’s coat type, activity level, and how much brushing you’re doing at home. But one thing’s for sure: regular grooming keeps your pup looking, feeling, and being their best.

If you’re ever unsure about your pup’s ideal grooming schedule, your local groomer is always happy to help you come up with a plan tailored just for them. After all, healthy coats = happy dogs = happy humans.