How often to groom a dog depends far more on the coat than on the breed name. A short, smooth coat may only need a bath every few months; a doodle or shih tzu needs brushing every day and a haircut on a schedule.
A Schedule by Coat Type
| Coat | Brushing at home | Groomer visit |
|---|---|---|
| Short and smooth (lab, beagle, boxer) | Once a week | Bath at least every 3 months; nails every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Double coat (husky, golden, shepherd) | At least weekly | De-shedding bath and blow-out; never a shave-down |
| Curly (doodle, poodle) | Daily, down to the skin | Haircut on a schedule you set with the groomer |
| Long and silky (shih tzu, Yorkie, Maltese) | Daily | Haircut or trim; the AKC suggests every 6 to 8 weeks for Yorkies |
From ASPCA and American Kennel Club grooming guidance. Most dogs also benefit from ear cleaning about once a month. Your groomer may suggest a different schedule.
For Every Dog
- Bath: at least once every three months (ASPCA).
- Nails: every three to four weeks for most dogs (AKC).
- Ears: most dogs benefit from cleaning about once a month (AKC).
- Tick checks: after walks through grassy or wooded areas (NY Department of Health).
Senior and Nervous Dogs
Older dogs often need nail trims more often, and shorter, calmer appointments. For dogs that hate being brushed, the American Kennel Club suggests working with a groomer trained to deal with fearful dogs. Mention it when you call (585) 844-8318.
Ready to set a schedule? See dog grooming services in Fairport or what grooming costs.
Sources: ASPCA grooming tips, AKC grooming guide, AKC on nail trims, AKC on senior dogs, AKC on dogs that dislike brushing, NY Department of Health on ticks.