How Often Should Your Dog Be Groomed?

The general rule

Most dogs benefit from a professional groom every 6 to 8 weeks. That keeps the coat manageable, the skin healthy, and problems like matting from getting out of hand. But the real answer depends on what kind of coat your dog has.

Curly and wavy coats (every 4-6 weeks)

Breeds like cockapoos, cavapoos, labradoodles, bichon frises, and poodle crosses have coats that grow continuously and don't shed much. That sounds like a good thing until matting sets in. These coats tangle quickly, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar.

A full groom every 4-6 weeks keeps them comfortable. Regular brushing at home between grooms makes a big difference too. If the coat does get badly matted, it sometimes needs to be clipped shorter than you'd like, which is why staying on top of it matters.

Double-coated breeds (every 8-12 weeks)

Labradors, golden retrievers, huskies, German shepherds, border collies, and corgis all have a thick undercoat beneath a weather-resistant outer coat. They shed heavily, especially in spring and autumn.

These breeds don't usually need clipping, but they do benefit from regular de-shedding treatments and thorough baths to keep the undercoat under control. Every 8-12 weeks works well, with more frequent visits during heavy shedding season.

A common misconception is that shaving a double-coated dog keeps them cool in summer. It doesn't. The double coat actually insulates them from heat. Shaving can damage the coat permanently, so it's best avoided.

Wire and rough coats (every 6-8 weeks)

Terriers (border terriers, Westies, schnauzers, wire fox terriers) and breeds like wirehaired dachshunds have coats that need hand-stripping or clipping to stay in shape.

Every 6-8 weeks keeps them looking tidy. Hand-stripping maintains the coat's natural texture and colour, while clipping is a quicker option if appearance isn't a priority.

Smooth and short coats (every 8-12 weeks)

Breeds like staffies, whippets, beagles, pugs, and French bulldogs have short coats that are easy to maintain. They still shed, and they still benefit from a regular bath and brush to keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.

Every 8-12 weeks for a Bath & Tidy is a good rhythm. Nail clipping is often the main reason short-coated dogs come in, since their nails don't wear down as quickly as you'd think.

Long and silky coats (every 4-6 weeks)

Shih tzus, Yorkshire terriers, Maltese, Lhasa apsos, and Afghan hounds have long, flowing coats that need regular attention. Without it, the coat tangles and mats close to the skin, which is uncomfortable and can lead to skin issues.

Every 4-6 weeks for a full groom, with daily brushing at home. If daily brushing isn't realistic, keeping the coat in a shorter trim makes life easier for everyone.

Puppies (start early)

Puppies can have their first groom once they've completed their vaccinations, usually around 12-16 weeks. The first visit isn't really about the haircut. It's about getting them used to being handled, hearing the dryer, standing on a table, and learning that grooming is a normal, calm part of life.

Starting early makes every future groom easier. A puppy who has a positive first experience tends to be relaxed about grooming for life.

What you can do between grooms

Regular brushing at home is the single most useful thing you can do. Even five minutes a few times a week prevents matting, reduces shedding around the house, and lets you spot any lumps, ticks, or skin issues early.

Check ears weekly, especially on floppy-eared breeds. Keep an eye on nail length. And if your dog gets into something particularly muddy or smelly between grooms, a rinse with plain water won't do any harm.