A Lab and a Shih Tzu both need grooming, but not remotely the same amount. Most of it comes down to coat type. Figure out which group your dog falls into, and the schedule pretty much writes itself.
Treat these as starting points. A dog who swims every weekend needs more baths than a couch potato, and your vet or groomer may have advice for your dog in particular.
Short, smooth coats
Think Beagles, Boxers, Pugs and smooth Dachshunds.
- Brushing: about once a week, more during shedding season
- Bathing: every 1 to 3 months, or when they roll in something
Short coats don't tangle, but they still shed, and more than people expect. A weekly brush pulls out loose hair and spreads the skin's natural oils. A grooming glove works really well on this coat type.
Double coats
Think Golden Retrievers, Huskies, German Shepherds and Labs.
- Brushing: 2 to 3 times a week, daily during seasonal shedding
- Bathing: every 1 to 3 months
These dogs have a soft undercoat that sheds heavily, usually in spring and fall. Regular brushing is the only real way to keep it off your floors. As a general rule, don't shave a double coat, since it helps them regulate temperature. Ask a groomer if you're unsure.
Long, silky coats
Think Shih Tzus, Yorkies and Maltese.
- Brushing: daily or every other day
- Bathing: every 3 to 6 weeks
- Trims: tidy the paws, face and sanitary area every few weeks
Long coats tangle easily, especially behind the ears, under the legs and around the collar. A few minutes a day stops mats before they start.
Curly and wiry coats
Think Poodles, Doodles, Bichons and Schnauzers.
- Brushing: several times a week, ideally daily for curly coats
- Professional grooming: often every 4 to 8 weeks
Curly coats shed less but mat more. Keeping up at home between appointments keeps your dog comfortable and makes each groom quicker and less stressful.
Every dog, whatever the coat
- Nails: roughly every 3 to 4 weeks. If you hear clicking on the floor, it's time.
- Paws: a quick check after walks, especially in winter or mud season.
- Ears: a weekly look for redness or a funky smell.
Make it part of the week
The schedule that works is the one you'll actually keep. Five minutes of brushing on Sunday night. Nails on the first of the month. A paw rinse after muddy walks. Small, predictable sessions are a lot easier on your dog than one big grooming day every few months.
Everything you need for this at home is in our dog grooming essentials.