When I first brought home Daisy, my rescue Labrador, I thought grooming meant a quick shampoo and an occasional nail trim. But I quickly learned it’s so much more than that. Grooming is care. It’s a connection. And it’s one of the best ways to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Regular grooming isn’t just about looking good—it helps:
- Detect early signs of health issues like lumps, skin irritations, or infections
- Prevent matting, odor, and painful skin conditions
- Strengthen your bond with your dog (trust me, a calm brushing session feels like love in action)
Different dogs have different grooming needs. A Husky’s coat blows twice a year like a snowstorm, while a Beagle may only need a good brushing once a week. So let’s explore what works best—by coat type.
How Often Should You Groom Short-Haired Dogs (Like Beagles or Boxers)?
Short-haired breeds often look low-maintenance—but don’t be fooled. Their smooth coats still shed, collect dander, and need routine care.
Weekly Routine for Short-Haired Dogs:
- Brushing: 1–2× weekly (rubber brush or bristle brush)
- Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks
- Ear Cleaning: Monthly
- Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 weeks
- Teeth Brushing: 3× weekly or more
Tip: My neighbor’s Boxer, Rocky, loves his rubber glove brush—it’s like a massage. If your dog isn’t a fan of tools, start with short sessions and treats.
What’s the Grooming Routine for Double-Coated Breeds (Like German Shepherds or Huskies)?
Double-coated dogs need more attention, especially during shedding season. Their undercoats shed heavily in spring and fall.
Grooming Schedule:
- Brushing: 3–4× per week, daily during shedding
- Bathing: Every 8–12 weeks
- Deshedding Rake Use: Weekly in peak shedding
- Ear Cleaning: Monthly
- Nail Trimming: 3–4 weeks
- Teeth Brushing: 3–5× weekly
Pro Tip: Use an undercoat rake after brushing to remove loose fur. Max (my German Shepherd) sheds enough to fill a pillow during spring—routine brushing saves your floors (and sanity).
How Do You Groom Long-Haired Dogs (Golden Retrievers, Afghan Hounds)?
Long coats tangle easily, trap dirt, and need dedicated brushing to stay clean and mat-free.
Grooming Routine:
- Daily Brushing: Use a slicker brush or detangling comb
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
- Trim Sessions: Every 6–8 weeks (especially around paws and rear)
- Ear Cleaning: 2× monthly
- Teeth Brushing & Nail Trimming: Weekly
Story Time: After one hiking trip, I found two ticks and a burr knot behind Daisy’s ears. Daily brushing isn’t optional—it’s protection.
What About Curly-Coated Breeds Like Poodles or Doodles?
Curly hair mats fast—especially if not dried properly after baths.
Routine:
- Brushing: Every other day
- Professional Trim: Every 4–6 weeks
- Bathing: Every 4 weeks with conditioning
- Ear & Teeth Care: 1–2× weekly
- Nail Trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
Tip: Always brush before bathing! Wet mats get tighter and painful to remove. If you’re struggling, a leave-in spray detangler helps a lot.
What’s the Grooming Plan for Hairless or Short-Coated Dogs (Xoloitzcuintli, Whippet)?
Hairless breeds need special skincare—not brushing.
Schedule:
- Wipe Downs: 2–3× weekly
- Bathing: Every 2 weeks with sensitive-skin shampoo
- Moisturizing: Apply vet-approved lotion post-bath
- Sun Protection: Use dog-safe sunscreen when outside
- Nail Trim, Ear Cleaning, Teeth Care: Every 2–3 weeks
These breeds are super sensitive. Their grooming is more about skin care than coat care.
Grooming Task Tutorials
Brushing Techniques by Coat Type:
- Short coats: Rubber glove in circular motion to remove loose hair
- Double coats: Pin brush + undercoat rake
- Curly coats: Wide-tooth comb, starting at ends and working in
- Long coats: Slicker brush + comb for finishing
How to Bathe Your Dog:
- Use lukewarm water
- Dilute shampoo for easier rinsing
- Avoid eyes and inside ears
- Rinse thoroughly (twice if needed)
- Towel-dry + blow-dry on cool setting if long-haired
Wondering if you’re bathing too much or too little? Here’s a full breakdown of how often your dog really needs a bath based on coat type and season.
Teeth Brushing:
- Use dog-safe toothpaste
- Introduce slowly: first let them taste, then gently lift lips
- Brush in circular motions 2–3× per week
Ear Cleaning:
- Use vet-approved ear solution
- Soak a cotton ball and gently wipe visible parts
- Never insert cotton swabs
Nail Trimming:
- Clip just the tip—avoid the quick
- Use styptic powder in case of bleeding
- Dremel tools can be safer for beginners
For nervous pups or new pet parents, here’s a step-by-step guide to trim your dog’s nails safely without hurting them.
Dog Grooming Checklist (Summary by Coat Type)
| Coat Type | Brushing | Bathing | Nail Trim | Ears | Teeth |
| Short-Haired | 1–2×/week | Every 6–8 wk | Every 3–4 wk | Monthly | 3×/week |
| Double-Coated | 3–4×/week | 8–12 weeks | 3–4 weeks | Monthly | 3–5×/week |
| Long-Haired | Daily | 4–6 weeks | Weekly | Biweekly | Daily |
| Curly-Coated | 3–4×/week | Every 4 wk | 2–3 weeks | Weekly | 3×/week |
| Hairless/Low-Coat | Wipe 2×/week | 2–3 weeks | 2–3 weeks | 2×/month | 3×/week |
Dog Grooming FAQs
What if my dog hates brushing?
Start slow. Let them sniff the brush. Begin with short, calm sessions and use treats. Over time, build tolerance.
Can I bathe my dog too often?
Yes. Overbathing strips oils, dries skin. Stick to your coat type’s recommended schedule.
What’s the easiest way to trim nails?
Use a Dremel or clip a little each week. Always have styptic powder nearby. If anxious, let a groomer handle it.
Can I groom my dog at home?
Absolutely! Use the right tools, go slow, and stay calm. But if mats are tight or your dog’s aggressive—see a professional.
Download: Dog Grooming Calendar + Tracker PDF
This grooming calendar includes:
- Weekly and monthly routines by coat type
- Space to track nails, brushing, bathing, and ear care
- Notes section to log skin issues or shedding patterns
Conclusion: Grooming Is Care, Not Chore
A grooming routine keeps your dog healthy, happy, and loved. Whether you have a high-maintenance floof or a sleek-coated pup, find the rhythm that works for both of you.
Tip: Pair grooming with music, calming scents, or a favorite treat to make it enjoyable for your pup.
Ready to start?
👉 [Explore Dog Nail Trimming Tips →]
👉 [Check Out Our Dog Bathing Frequency Guide →]
