How often your dog needs grooming, by coat type

There is no single schedule for every dog. Coat type is the biggest factor, then your dog’s activity, skin and how much brushing happens at home. Your groomer can see your dog’s coat and is the best person to set the schedule.

By coat type

• Short, smooth coats (such as Beagles or Boxers). Usually need the least. A bath and a nail trim every so often is common, with regular brushing at home.
• Double coats (such as Huskies or Golden Retrievers). Shed heavily, in seasonal bursts. A bath and de-shedding visit helps; ask your groomer before any shaving, because a double coat is not always better short.
• Long, silky coats (such as Shih Tzus or Yorkies). Tangle easily and are often groomed on a regular rotation of several weeks, with brushing between visits.
• Curly and wool coats (such as Poodles and doodles). The hair keeps growing and mats easily. These dogs are usually on the shortest rotation, often every few weeks.
• Wire coats (such as many terriers). Some owners keep the coat by hand-stripping and others clip it. Ask what your groomer offers.

260 groomers list full grooms, 300 list bath and brush and 222 list de-shedding (as of November 6, 2026).

Between visits

Brushing at home matters as much as the visit. Mats start close to the skin, behind the ears, under the legs and around the collar, and a matted coat can be uncomfortable for your dog. Ask your groomer how often to brush and which tools suit your dog’s coat.

Nails, ears and teeth

Nails grow all the time and need trimming on their own schedule, often more often than the coat. Ask your groomer or vet to show you what is normal for your dog’s ears and teeth.

289 groomers list nail trims and 225 groomers list teeth brushing.

Puppies and seniors

Short, gentle first visits help a puppy learn that grooming is normal. Older dogs may need shorter sessions, more breaks and a gentler touch. Tell the groomer about age, joint trouble or health concerns before the visit.

119 groomers list puppy grooms.

Tampa Bay weather

Warm, humid weather is hard on thick coats that stay damp. Ask your groomer how they dry the coat fully, and talk with them about what length suits your dog. Do not shave a double coat on your own.

How to choose a dog groomer