There's no single answer to "how often should I groom my dog" — it depends heavily on coat type. Here's a practical breakdown.
By coat type
- Short, smooth coats (Labradors, Beagles) — brushing weekly, bathing every 4–8 weeks or as needed.
- Double coats (Huskies, German Shepherds) — brushing 2–3 times a week, more during seasonal shedding, bathing every 6–8 weeks.
- Curly or wool coats (Poodles, Bichons) — brushing every 1–2 days to prevent matting, professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.
- Long, silky coats (Yorkies, Shih Tzus) — daily brushing, professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.
- Wire coats (Terriers) — regular brushing plus hand-stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks depending on style.
Grooming is more than baths
A full grooming routine usually includes:
- Brushing — prevents matting and reduces shedding around the house.
- Nail trimming — roughly every 3–4 weeks; overgrown nails can affect a dog's gait.
- Ear cleaning — especially important for floppy-eared breeds prone to infections.
- Teeth brushing — ideally a few times a week, for dental health.
Signs your dog needs grooming sooner than scheduled
- Visible matting or tangles
- A noticeably strong odor
- Nails clicking loudly on the floor
- Redness or odor around the ears
DIY vs. professional grooming
Brushing and basic maintenance are easy to do at home. Bathing, haircuts, and de-matting — especially for curly or long coats — are often easier and safer with a professional, who can spot skin issues early too. See our grooming checklist for what a full session typically covers, or find a groomer near you on Pawly.