How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?

Grooming helps your dog look and feel their best, but there isn't one schedule that works for every dog.

A short-haired dog may need relatively little coat maintenance, while a long-haired or curly-coated dog might require attention several times a week. Your dog's breed, coat type, lifestyle, age, and health can all affect how often grooming is needed.

Instead of following one universal timetable, build a routine around your individual dog.

Brush According to Coat Type

Brushing removes loose hair, helps prevent tangles, and gives you an opportunity to check your dog's skin and coat.

Dogs with short, smooth coats may only need brushing about once a week. Dogs with longer, thicker, curly, or double coats often benefit from more frequent brushing, sometimes several times each week or even daily.

Regular brushing is especially important for dogs prone to matting. Once tangles become tight and uncomfortable, they can be difficult to remove safely at home.

Don't Bathe Your Dog Too Often

Dogs need baths, but more isn't always better.

For many dogs, bathing every few weeks to every few months may be enough unless they become particularly dirty or have specific skin-care needs. Dogs that spend lots of time outdoors, swim frequently, or enjoy rolling in messy things may need baths more often.

Use shampoo formulated specifically for dogs. Human shampoos may not be appropriate for their skin.

If your dog has allergies or another skin condition, ask your veterinarian about an appropriate bathing routine and products.

Check Their Nails Regularly

How quickly nails grow varies from dog to dog.

Active dogs that regularly walk on hard surfaces may naturally wear their nails down more than dogs that spend most of their time indoors or walking on softer ground.

Check your dog's nails every few weeks. If you hear them clicking against hard floors or notice they're becoming long, it may be time for a trim.

If you're uncomfortable trimming nails yourself, a groomer or veterinary professional can help.

Make Ears and Teeth Part of the Routine

Grooming involves more than your dog's coat.

Check their ears regularly for unusual odor, redness, discharge, or excessive buildup. Some dogs, particularly those with floppy ears or frequent swimmers, may need more attention than others.

Dental care matters too. Regular tooth brushing with dog-safe toothpaste can help maintain oral hygiene. Never use human toothpaste for your dog.

Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate dental-care routine based on your dog's needs.

Professional Grooming Depends on the Dog

Some dogs can be groomed almost entirely at home.

Others benefit from regular professional appointments. Dogs with continuously growing, curly, or high-maintenance coats may need professional grooming approximately every four to eight weeks, depending on their coat and preferred style.

A groomer can also help with bathing, nail trimming, coat maintenance, and other routine care.

Create a Schedule That Works for Your Dog

Grooming shouldn't simply be about appearance.

It's also an opportunity to notice changes such as lumps, irritated skin, parasites, unusual sensitivity, or changes in your dog's coat.

Start grooming gently and make the experience as positive as possible, especially with puppies or newly adopted dogs.

Once you understand your dog's coat and individual needs, grooming becomes less of an occasional chore and more of a normal part of keeping them comfortable and cared for.