written by Dr Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
Dogs come in different shapes and sizes, so there’s not one grooming regimen that suits all of them. If you’re confused about how best to care for your dog’s coat, then you’re not alone!
We’re going to explore some of your most-asked grooming questions, including how often to brush your dog, how to improve your dog’s coat quality, and why toothbrushing is so important. Read on to find out more!
How often do I need to brush my dog?
The answer to this will very much depend on your dog’s coat type -
Long-haired coats
Dogs with long coats will need daily brushing to prevent painful tangles and mats forming. A slicker brush will help remove hair from the surface of your pet’s coat; an undercoat rake will help reach deeper layers (if your pet has an undercoat); and a wide-tooth comb will help gently tease out any tangles.
Example breeds include Afghan Hounds, Maltese and Briards.
Medium-haired coats
Dogs with medium coats need brushing 2 or 3 times a week. Pay particular attention to thick undercoats and any long feathery areas, which may be prone to matting. Use the same tools as you would for long-haired breeds.
Example breeds include Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd dogs and Springer Spaniels.
Short-haired coats
Weekly brushing should be enough for most short-haired breeds. This will remove loose hairs and distribute natural oils throughout their coat, helping it shine. You can use a slicker brush to do this, or a grooming mitt or glove may be enough for some pups.
Example breeds include Labrador Retrievers, Hungarian Vizslas and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Curly coats
Daily brushing may be needed to keep their coats tangle-free, especially those with long curls. A slicker brush works best, but a small metal comb can help to detangle any areas prone to knots, like behind the ears. You may find a pin brush also comes in handy to gently fluff your pet’s coat after they’ve been detangled.
You could also try a detangling spray which can be applied to a dry coat before you start brushing.
Example breeds include Poodles, Bichon Frisé, and Bedlington Terriers.
Wiry coats
If you have a wire-coated dog, they will need brushing 2 - 3 times a week. You can use a slicker brush to remove dead fur, but some breeds will need an undercoat rake as well. A pin brush may also be useful to give your dog a gentler tidy-up between proper brushing sessionsExample breeds include Schnauzers, German Wire-haired Pointers and wire-haired Dachshunds.
Brushing top tips –
● Invest in good quality brushes.
● Always brush in the same direction as hair growth for your pet’s comfort.
● Find a quiet moment where you aren’t rushed, and there are minimal distractions.
● Keep brushing sessions short and positive, praising your dog and rewarding them with treats.
● If your dog seems distressed, stop and give them a break – you can always try again later or the next day.
Does my dog need professional grooming?
Dogs that don’t shed, like curly-coated breeds, will need to be clipped every 4 – 6 weeks. Their hair is similar to ours, and will continue to grow in length, leading to tangling and matting. Regular haircuts are essential. While some owners tackle this themselves at home, most will use their local groomer. Similarly, wire-breeds may need professional hand stripping every 6-8 weeks to maintain their coat texture.
Speak to your groomer for advice on frequency and styles for your pet.
How can I improve my dog’s coat condition?
Regular brushing removes dead fur and distributes your dog’s natural oils, helping their coat to look neat and shiny.
But nutrition is also important, so make sure your dog is on a good-quality food that is appropriate for their life stage and size. Some dogs may benefit from a diet that is supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids, which can promote healthy skin and coat condition. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been proven to help in conditions like skin allergies, due to their natural anti-inflammatory effects. Speak to your vet for more advice on this.
Regular anti-parasite treatment will also help your dog’s skin and coat stay healthy, especially if they suffer from flea allergic dermatitis (FAD). Always use a vet-approved product.
My dog’s coat doesn’t look great… when should I take them to the vet?
As well as being good for coat maintenance, regular grooming allows you to give your pet the once-over. If you notice that your dog has any of the following symptoms, then a trip to the vets is recommended –
● Persistent, increased scurf or dander
● Hair loss or coat thinning
● Excessive scratching, paw licking or head shaking
● Inflamed skin
● Scabs or skin sores
● Skin lumps or bumps
Your vet will be able to diagnose any underlying issues such as parasites, allergies, or hormonal conditions, which may require specific treatment to resolve.
How often do I need to bathe my dog?
Most dogs only need bathing when they get dirty or smelly. This might only be once every 1 – 3 months.
Of course, more active pets, dogs with a coat prone to tangling, or those with a skin condition may require more frequent baths. Hairless dog breeds, like the Chinese Crested, are another example. They need frequent bathing, about every 1 -2 weeks, because they are prone to skin issues. Chinese Cresteds may also benefit from being moisturised after bathing, to help keep their skin in good condition.
But in most cases, bathing your dog too often is not recommended as it may disrupt their natural skin barriers and oils in their coat. Remember to always use a dog-specific shampoo as this is formulated to suit the pH of your dog’s skin.
How do I care for skin folds in dogs?
Dogs with excess skin folds like Bulldogs or Shar Pei may need a little extra care. After bathing or cleaning their coat, you will need to gently dry the folds. Medicated skin wipes can help keep creases free from secondary infections. Speak to your vet for advice.
How to bathe a dog –
- Prepare – Gather supplies like a dog-specific shampoo, towels, a small pitcher, a sponge, a non-slip bathmat, and some treats.
- Reassure your dog – provide your dog with gentle reassurance and treats while you get them comfortable in the bathtub. Make sure they are stood on a non-slip bathmat, as shiny wet surfaces could cause slipping and panic.
- Use lukewarm water – make sure the water is not too hot or too cold; aim for lukewarm. Don’t allow the water to get too deep; a few inches is usually enough. Using a small cup or pitcher, or a damp sponge, thoroughly wet your dog but avoid their face and ears. Alternatively, some dogs may tolerate being gently washed by a handheld shower attachment.
- Lather and rinse – lather in your dog shampoo and then rinse thoroughly to remove all the soap suds. Never be tempted to use a human shampoo or dish soap as these are too harsh for your dog’s skin. Praise your dog with treats throughout.
- Dry your dog – Use a towel to gently pat your dog dry. It is usually fine to allow your dog to air dry, though some may tolerate a hair dryer on a low setting.
Other grooming advice
Grooming isn’t just limited to your dog’s coat! Here are a couple of other areas that owners have questions about -
When should I cut my dog's nails?
Nail trim frequency will depend on your dog’s breed, lifestyle and age. Active dogs or those that walk on hard pavements will often wear their claws down naturally. Larger dogs are also better at wearing their claws down than smaller, lighter breeds. Older dogs may need more frequent trims compared to younger ones, due to reduced activity and thickened nails.
Signs your dog’s nails need a trim -
● Their nails touch the ground when they are walking
● You can hear their claws tapping against the floor
● Claws are getting stuck in soft furnishings
● Nails look visibly long or pointed
You can either do this yourself at home, take your cat to a groomer, or ask your veterinary team to help.
Do I need to brush my dog’s teeth?
The short answer is yes! Oral hygiene is an important part of your dog’s grooming routine. Studies show that periodontal disease is one of the most common issues identified in dogs, and it can have a negative impact on their overall health.
Daily toothbrushing can significantly help to reduce this risk. You should try to introduce this from an early age, but with the right approach, it’s never too late to start.
If your dog has bad breath, excess tartar, or inflamed gums, then a vet check is advised before you start toothbrushing in case they require professional dental treatment first.
Summary
The right grooming routine is an essential part of your dog’s care. All dogs will need daily toothbrushing, but other things like bathing and brushing will depend on your dog’s coat type, activity levels, and health.
Hopefully our guide has covered the basics, but don’t forget your vet or professional groomer is always on hand for any questions you may still have.
With the right care and attention, your canine companion will maintain a healthy coat and look their best for many years to come!