One of the most common questions we hear in the grooming salon is: “How often should I get my dog groomed?”
Every dog should have their nails trimmed about every 4 weeks.
Professional dog grooming appointments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks, though some breeds may be able to go 6-8 weeks between grooms.
Consistent professional grooming is equally important for all dogs, and your groomer is essential in keeping an eye on the health of your pet. Your pets typically see a veterinarian only once or twice a year, whereas your groomer should see your pet at least six times a year. Groomers check every aspect of your pet, and if you are consistent with the same groomer, they can help catch any new lumps and bumps or other potential health issues early on and help get you on the right path to resolve any concerns.
Grooming Dogs with Double Coats
Examples of Double-Coated Breeds:
Australian Shepherd
Golden Retriever
Corgi
Great Pyrenees
Border Collie
Collie
Shetland Sheepdog
Newfoundland
Bernese Mountain Dog
Recommended grooming frequency: every 4–6 weeks
Double-coated dogs are often referred to as “shedding dogs,” but shedding can be significantly reduced with a consistent grooming routine. Regular professional grooming combined with brushing at home helps keep their coat healthy and manageable
Many people assume double-coated dogs have tough skin. In reality, they have very sensitive skin protected by a thick coat. Without regular grooming, these dogs are prone to matting and skin problems. While we have products and treatments that can help treat these skin issues, it is much easier to maintain healthy skin and coat than to fix damaged skin and coat.
Double coats consist of:
A dense, soft undercoat that insulates and regulates temperature
A longer, coarse, outer coat (guard hairs) that protects from sun, dirt, and weather
Dogs “blow” their undercoat in the warmer seasons. It’s especially important to professionally groom your pet during this time to ensure the undercoat is released instead of caught by the guard hairs, creating matting. If your dog develops mats, take them to a groomer to have them removed. Don’t try to cut mats out yourself, as they are often very close to the skin and you may accidentally injure your dog.
Shaving a double-coated dog may seem like a solution for shedding or summer heat, but it actually increases the risk of heatstroke and sunburn. The remaining undercoat helps trap cool air near the skin, and the double layers act as natural insulation and protection.
Grooming Dogs with Long Coats
Examples of Long-Coated Dogs:
Shih Tzu
Maltese
Havanese
Yorkshire Terrier
Poodle
Poodle mixes (doodles)
Cocker Spaniel
Recommended grooming frequency:
Short haircut: every 4–6 weeks
Long or fluffy coat: every 2–4 weeks
Long-coated dogs have higher grooming needs and can be styled in various ways, including full haircuts. Long coats grow continuously and require regular trimming to maintain healthy skin and coat. Longer styles also require more frequent bathing and consistent brushing at home to prevent matting.
The long coat types grow continuously and need to be trimmed periodically to maintain good health of the skin and coat. Matting or tangling of the coat can have multiple causes. Your pet’s coat may mat due to a coat change (puppies lose their soft, fluffy puppy coat and it gets caught in the new adult coat), pets wearing items (clothes, harnesses or collars), petting your dog consistently in the same location, and rolling around on the floor, furniture or outside.
Common Causes of Matting
Matting can occur due to:
Coat changes (puppy coat transitioning to adult coat)
Clothing, harnesses, or collars
Repeated petting in the same areas
Rolling on furniture, floors, or outdoors
Static electricity often starts tangles, which worsen quickly without brushing. We recommend using a wire slicker brush and a metal comb at home.
If you find mats, schedule a professional grooming appointment as soon as possible. Cutting mats at home is unsafe and can easily lead to accidental cuts.
Grooming Dogs with Short Hair
Examples of Short-Haired Breeds:
- Pug
- Pit Bull
- Labrador Retriever
- Chihuahua
- Beagle
- Boston Terrier
- Whippet
Recommended grooming frequency: every 6–8 weeks (or as needed)
Short-coated dogs can typically go longer between grooming appointments, but consistency still matters. These dogs can technically be groomed as often as weekly if needed—especially for skin care or odor control.
Why Short-Coated Dogs Still Need Grooming
Because their hair is short, natural oils on the skin rub off easily onto carpets, furniture, and other surfaces. These oils form a protective barrier that helps keep irritants and allergens out. When that barrier is compromised, dogs may develop skin issues or increased sensitivity.
Professional grooming products are designed to help restore and protect this natural barrier. If your dog is shedding excessively, ask your groomer about deshedding treatments or product recommendations. Excessive shedding may also point to internal factors such as nutrition.
Important to note: All dogs shed—even short-haired and shaved dogs.
Need Help Finding the Right Grooming Schedule?
Every dog is unique. If you’re unsure how often your dog should be groomed, our experienced groomers are happy to help.
Book an appointment or ask us at your next visit—we’ll create a grooming schedule that keeps your dog healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.