How Often Should You Groom Your Dog? A Breed-by-Breed Guide

It Depends on the Coat

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. A Labrador and a Goldendoodle have completely different grooming needs. Understanding your dog's coat type is the first step toward a healthy grooming schedule.

Short-Coated Breeds

Examples: Boxers, Beagles, French Bulldogs, Pit Bulls

Short-coated dogs are relatively low maintenance, but they still benefit from regular grooming:

• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
• Brushing: Weekly with a rubber curry brush to remove loose hair
• Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks for nail trims, ear cleaning, and a thorough bath

Don't skip brushing just because the coat is short. Regular brushing distributes natural oils and keeps skin healthy.

Double-Coated Breeds

Examples: Golden Retrievers, Huskies, German Shepherds, Corgis

Double-coated breeds shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat blows in spring and fall:

• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks (more during shedding season)
• Brushing: 2–3 times per week minimum; daily during heavy shedding
• Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks for deshedding treatments
• Important: Never shave a double coat — it damages the undercoat and affects temperature regulation

Arizona Consideration

In Gilbert's heat, double-coated dogs need extra attention. A professional deshedding treatment removes the loose undercoat and helps your dog stay cooler without compromising their coat's natural insulation.

Curly and Wire-Coated Breeds

Examples: Poodles, Doodles, Schnauzers, Bichons

These coats grow continuously and are prone to matting:

• Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks
• Brushing: Daily — this is non-negotiable for curly coats
• Professional grooming: Every 4–6 weeks for haircuts and thorough brush-outs
• Matting risk: Without consistent brushing, mats form close to the skin and can cause pain and skin infections

Long-Coated Breeds

Examples: Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Afghans

Long coats require the most maintenance:

• Bathing: Every 2–3 weeks
• Brushing: Daily with a pin brush and comb
• Professional grooming: Every 4–6 weeks
• Keep eyes clear: Many long-coated breeds need regular face trims to prevent tear staining and irritation

Lifestyle Factors

Your dog's grooming frequency also depends on:

• Activity level — Dogs that hike, swim, or play in dirt need more frequent baths
• Allergies — Dogs with skin allergies may need medicated baths on a schedule set by your vet
• Age — Senior dogs may need gentler, more frequent grooming to manage dry skin and mobility issues
• Desert living — Gilbert's dry climate can cause dry skin; moisturizing shampoos and conditioners help

Signs Your Dog Needs Grooming Now

Don't wait for the scheduled appointment if you notice:

• Visible mats or tangles
• Strong odor
• Overgrown nails clicking on the floor
• Red or irritated skin
• Excessive scratching
• Dirty or smelly ears

Build a Routine

The best grooming schedule is one you can stick to. At-home maintenance between professional visits keeps your dog comfortable and makes professional grooming sessions smoother and less stressful.

Keep your pup on schedule. Book with Gordie's Grooming — express grooming in Gilbert, AZ.