How Often Should My Dog Be Groomed? It Depends on Their Coat

One of the most common questions pet parents ask is:

“How often should my dog be groomed?”

The answer isn’t the same for every dog.

A good grooming schedule depends on your dog’s coat type, lifestyle, age, skin and overall grooming needs. Some dogs may do well with professional grooming every couple of months, while others need much more regular care to stay comfortable and keep their coat in good condition.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what may work best for your dog.

Short-Haired Dogs

Dogs with short coats may look low-maintenance, but they still benefit from regular grooming.

Breeds such as Labs, Beagles, Boxers, French Bulldogs and Pugs can shed quite a bit, and routine bathing and brushing helps remove loose hair, dirt and buildup from the coat.

Depending on your dog, professional grooming every 6–12 weeks may be a good starting point.

Regular nail trims, ear cleaning and brushing between appointments can also help keep them comfortable.

Double-Coated Dogs

Dogs with double coats have a soft undercoat beneath a protective outer coat.

Examples include Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies and many other breeds.

These dogs can shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat changes. Regular brushing and professional deshedding services can help remove loose undercoat before it ends up all over your home.

Many double-coated dogs benefit from grooming approximately every 4–8 weeks, although your groomer can recommend a schedule based on your individual dog.

One important note: double-coated dogs generally should not be shaved unless there is a medical or specific grooming reason to do so.

Long-Haired Dogs

Dogs with longer coats usually require more frequent grooming because their hair can tangle and mat more easily.

Breeds such as Shih Tzus, Yorkies, Maltese and similar coat types often benefit from professional grooming approximately every 4–6 weeks.

Regular brushing at home is especially important between appointments.

The longer you prefer to keep your dog’s coat, the more maintenance it will typically require.

Curly and Doodle-Type Coats

Curly and continuously growing coats can require some of the most consistent grooming.

Doodles, Poodles, Bichons and similar coat types can develop tangles close to the skin, even when the outside of the coat appears brushed.

Many dogs with these coats benefit from professional grooming every 4–6 weeks, along with regular brushing and combing at home.

Your groomer can also help you choose a coat length that fits your lifestyle and the amount of maintenance you’re comfortable doing between appointments.

Senior Dogs May Need a Different Routine

As dogs get older, grooming needs can change.

Senior pets may have trouble standing for long periods, keeping themselves clean or tolerating lengthy grooming appointments.

More frequent, shorter appointments may sometimes be easier for an older dog than waiting until the coat, nails or shedding becomes difficult to manage.

Your groomer can work with you to create a routine that keeps your senior pet comfortable.

Lifestyle Matters Too

Your dog’s grooming schedule isn’t based on breed alone.

A dog that swims, hikes, plays outside frequently or loves rolling in the mud may need grooming more often than a dog with a quieter indoor lifestyle.

Seasonal shedding, allergies, skin conditions and how quickly your dog’s nails grow can also affect how often grooming is needed.

Don’t Wait Until Your Dog “Looks Dirty”

Grooming is about much more than appearance.

Regular appointments help maintain the coat, nails, ears and overall cleanliness before problems become uncomfortable.

Keeping your dog on a consistent schedule can also make grooming easier for them because the experience becomes a normal part of their routine.

Not Sure What Schedule Is Right for Your Dog?

There isn’t one grooming schedule that works for every pet.

At Hydrant Pet Center, our grooming team can help you determine a schedule based on your dog’s coat, lifestyle and individual needs.

The goal isn’t simply to make pets look good.

It’s to help them feel comfortable, cared for and happy between every visit.

If you’re unsure when your dog should come back for their next grooming appointment, just ask us. We’re always happy to help you find a routine that works for both you and your pet.

Hydrant Pet Center
Highland, Indiana
📞 219-923-3649