How Often To Groom Your Dog at Home: Expert Tips for Pet Parents

How Often To Groom Your Dog at Home: Key Points

• Brush your dog daily—no matter the coat type.
• Bathe every 4–6 weeks, adjusting for skin and activity level.
• Use the right tools based on your dog’s coat type.
• Don't skip nails, ears, or teeth—they’re essential to your dog’s health.
• You can groom your dog at home confidently with the right guidance.

Introduction

Grooming isn’t just about making your pup look cute; it’s essential for their health, hygiene, and happiness. But as a dog parent, you may be wondering: How often should I groom my dog? The answer depends on your dog’s coat type, activity level, and more. In this expert guide, you’ll learn how to confidently groom your dog at home—no stress, no guesswork.

👉 Keep reading to discover how often to groom your dog, plus brushing tips, bathing schedules, and more!

Why Grooming Frequency Matters

Grooming isn’t just for looks. It’s vital for your dog’s health, comfort, and emotional well-being. Here's why staying on schedule makes all the difference.

Health Benefits of Regular Grooming

• Keeps skin and coat healthy.
• Reduces shedding and buildup.
• Helps detect lumps, parasites, or infections early.

Regular grooming = preventive care. It’s a proactive way to avoid more serious (and costly) vet visits later on.

Comfort and Hygiene

Imagine going weeks without brushing your hair or trimming your nails. Well, your dog feels the same! Routine grooming:

• Prevents painful mats;
• Keeps nails short to avoid joint strain;
• Removes trapped dirt and odor.

Behavior and Bonding

Brushing and bathing help your dog relax and feel secure. With consistency, grooming becomes something your pup actually enjoys.

How Often Should You Groom Your Dog? (By Coat Type)

While all dogs benefit from daily brushing, we know that’s not always realistic. If you can’t brush every day, aim for the schedule below based on your dog’s coat type. Regular at-home grooming prevents mats, reduces shedding, and keeps your dog healthy and happy.

Short-Coated Dogs (e.g., Beagles, Boxers)

Short-haired dogs shed just as much as longer-coated breeds and benefit from frequent brushing and gentle bathing.

• Brushing: Daily or 2–3x/week with a rubber brush or mitt
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks
• Pro Tip: Wipe facial folds weekly to prevent buildup

👉 Learn short-coat techniques in our Short Coat Grooming course.

Double-Coated Dogs (e.g., Huskies, Golden Retrievers)

Double-coated dogs shed heavily, especially during seasonal “blowouts”.

• Brushing: Daily during shedding; otherwise 3–4x/week
• Bathing: Every 6–10 weeks
• Pro Tip: Never shave; use an undercoat rake to manage shedding

👉 Master home grooming in our Double Coat course.

Plush Coats (e.g., Pomeranians, Newfoundlands, Chows)

These coats are dense, cottony, and prone to severe matting if not brushed frequently and thoroughly.

• Brushing: Daily or every other day
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
• Pro Tip: Line brush to the skin to prevent hidden mats

👉 Keep plush coats fluffy with our Teddy Bear Cuts course!

Curly Coats (e.g., Poodles, Doodles, Bichon Frise)

Curly coats don’t shed much, but they mat quickly and require consistent care to stay soft and clean.

• Brushing: Daily or every other day
• Bathing: Every 4 weeks
• Trimming: Clip every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting

👉 Get step-by-step support in our Curly Coat Grooming course!

Silky Coats (e.g., Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkies)

Silky coats are smooth and fast-growing. While beautiful, they’re very prone to tangles and need gentle but frequent brushing.

• Brushing: Daily with a pin brush and comb
• Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks
• Pro Tip: Trim eyes, feet, and sanitary areas regularly

👉 Explore silky coat care in our Yorkie Grooming course!

Wiry Coats (e.g., Border Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Schnauzers)

These coats require hand-stripping or clipping to maintain their signature texture and prevent overgrowth.

• Brushing: 3–5x/week
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
• Clipping/hand-stripping: Every 6–8 weeks to maintain texture
• Pro Tip: Avoid overbathing (it softens wiry coats)

👉 Learn wire coat techniques in our Terrier Grooming course!

Hairless (e.g., Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli)

No fur doesn’t mean no grooming! Hairless breeds need special attention to skin care and sun protection.

• Bathing: Every 1–2 weeks
• Skin Care: Wipe down weekly; moisturize if dry
• Sun Protection: Use dog-safe sunscreen as needed

How Often Can You Bathe a Dog?

Bathing is essential—but overdoing it can dry out your dog’s skin. So, how often can you bath a dog without causing irritation? Most dogs do well with a bath every 4 to 6 weeks, though it varies by coat type, skin sensitivity, and activity level.

Bathing Guidelines by Coat & Skin Sensitivity

Some dogs naturally produce more oil, while others are prone to dry skin. Matching your bath routine to your dog’s unique needs can make a big difference in their comfort and coat quality.

• Oily skin (e.g., Basset Hounds): Every 3–4 weeks
• Dry or sensitive skin: Every 6–8 weeks, using gentle, moisturizing shampoos
• Average coat and skin: Every 4–6 weeks works for most breeds
• Outdoor/active dogs: May need more frequent rinsing (especially paws and belly) between full baths

Signs You’re Bathing Too Often (Or Not Enough)

Too much bathing may lead to:

• Dry, itchy, or flaky skin;
• Dull coat texture;
• Excessive licking or discomfort.

On the flip side, not bathing enough can cause:

• Greasy or smelly fur;
• Dirt buildup and dandruff;
• Higher risk of skin infections.

Recommended Shampoos & Tools

Remember to only use shampoos made for dogs and never human products.

• For sensitive skin: Oatmeal, aloe, or hypoallergenic formulas
• For odor: Deodorizing or charcoal-based
• For shedding: Deshedding shampoos and conditioners

We also recommend having the following tools on hand:

• Non-slip mat
• Cup or sprayer
• Towels
• Blow dryer (cool or low setting)

How Often Should I Brush My Dog?

Brushing is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to keep your dog’s coat healthy. Ideally, you should brush your dog every day, regardless of breed or coat type. Daily brushing prevents mats, reduces shedding, and keeps your pup comfortable.

But if you can’t commit to daily brushing? No problem, simply use the guide below as your minimum target!

Brushing Frequency by Coat Type

• Curly Coats: Daily or every other day
• Plush Coats: Daily or every other day
• Silky Coats: Daily
• Wiry Coats: 3–5x/week
• Double Coats: Daily during shedding; otherwise 3–4x/week
• Short Coats: 2–3x/week
• Hairless Dogs: No brushing—but weekly skin care is essential

Even non-shedding breeds benefit from brushing, since it stimulates circulation and distributes natural oils.

Must-Have Brushing Tools

The right tools make all the difference in how effective and enjoyable brushing will be for both you and your dog. Here are the essentials we recommend:

• Slicker Brush: For curly, plush, and wiry coats
• Pin Brush: Best for silky or long coats
• Rubber Curry Brush or Grooming Mitt: Great for short-haired dogs
• Undercoat Rake: Essential for double-coated breeds
• Metal Comb: Finishes the job and detects hidden mats

No matter what brushing tool you use, always brush in the direction of hair growth, and be gentle near sensitive spots like ears and underarms.

Mat Prevention Tips

Mats can form fast, especially behind ears, under legs, or around the tail. To prevent them:

✔️ Brush in layers, section by section.

✔️ Use detangling spray as needed.

✔️ Comb through after brushing to find hidden knots.

✔️ Never bathe a matted dog (water makes mats worse).

Other Grooming Essentials Pet Parents Should Know

Brushing and bathing cover the basics, but a complete grooming routine also includes nail trims, ear care, and dental hygiene. So, here’s how often to tackle each task at home.

How Often to Trim Nails

Overgrown nails can cause pain and posture issues. If you hear clicking on the floor, it's time form a trim!

• Most dogs need a nail trim every week, but this depends on activity level and how quickly your dog’s nails grow.
• Use a clipper or grinder, trimming a little at a time.
• Reward with treats and keep sessions calm.

Fun Fact: Walks on pavement can naturally file nails down between trims!

How Often to Clean Ears

Ear hygiene prevents infections, especially in floppy-eared breeds.

• Floppy-eared dogs (e.g., Cocker Spaniels): Clean weekly
• Upright ears (e.g., German Shepherds): Clean every 2–4 weeks
• Use a dog-safe ear cleaner and cotton pad—NEVER Q-tips!
• Check regularly for odor, redness, or discharge.

How Often to Brush Dogs’ Teeth

Wondering how often to brush dogs’ teeth? More than you think! Dental health affects the heart, kidneys, and beyond.

• Ideal: Daily 
• Minimum: 3x per week
• Use dog-safe enzymatic toothpaste and a toothbrush or finger brush.
• Dental chews help (but don’t replace brushing).

Grooming Schedules for Puppies vs. Adult Dogs

Puppies and adult dogs have different grooming needs, but the goal is the same: make grooming a consistent, positive experience. Start slow with puppies and build toward a reliable home routine as your dog grows.

Introducing Grooming Early (Puppy Tips)

Start grooming habits as early as 8 weeks old, even if it’s just light brushing or handling. This builds trust and comfort with tools and touch.

• Keep early sessions short (2–5 minutes).
• Use treats and calm praise.
• Gently handle paws, ears, and coat.
• Let puppies observe older dogs getting groomed.

When to Start Full Grooming

By 12–16 weeks (after second vaccinations), puppies are ready for a complete at-home routine:

• Begin nail trims as soon as you hear “clicking”.
• Introduce baths using a mild puppy shampoo.
• Start brushing weekly (daily for long or curly coats).
• Gradually increase grooming time to avoid overwhelm.

Adult Dog Routine

Grown dogs thrive on consistency! So:

• Pick set grooming days (e.g., brush daily, bathe monthly).
• Track grooming tasks with a checklist or calendar.
• Adjust as your dog ages or their coat/lifestyle changes.

Grooming Based on Lifestyle and Season

Coat type isn’t the only factor that determines grooming frequency. Your dog’s lifestyle and the time of year also matter, too. Outdoor-loving dogs and seasonal changes call for adjustments to your routine.

Active Dogs (Hikers, Swimmers, Mud Lovers)

Dogs who love the outdoors tend to get dirty faster and track in more debris. They may not need more full baths, but they do need more frequent cleanup.

• Brush daily, especially after hikes or messy walks.
• Rinse paws and belly as needed to remove dirt and allergens.
• Use gentle shampoo if baths become more frequent.
• Check for ticks, mats, or foxtails after time in nature.
• Set up a simple paw-cleaning station by the door with wipes, towels, and a water bowl.

Seasonal Shedding & Weather Impacts

Changes in weather often mean changes in coat care, especially for double and plush coats.

• Spring & Fall: Peak shedding seasons; increase brushing to daily.
• Summer: Don’t shave! Instead, brush daily (if possible) and bathe to stay cool and clean.
• Winter: Combat dry skin with moisturizing shampoos and paw balm.

Well-maintained coats help regulate temperature and protect skin in all seasons.

Grooming on a Budget: What You Can Do at Home

Professional grooming adds up fast… But the good news? You can do most (if not all) of your dog’s grooming at home! With a few essential tools and a simple routine, you’ll save money and feel confident caring for your pup yourself.

Essential DIY Tools

No need for a full salon setup. These basics cover all coat types:

✔️ Brushes suited to your dog’s coat (slicker, pin, rubber, deshedding)

✔️ Metal comb

✔️ Nail clippers and a grinder

✔️ Dog-safe shampoo and conditioner

✔️ Dog-safe ear wipes

✔️ Toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste

✔️ Towel and optional blow dryer (low/cool)

✔️ Clippers (if trimming long or curly coats)

Grooming Calendar or Checklist

Here’s a practical routine to follow, which you can easily adjust to your dog’s coat + lifestyle:

Daily

• Quick brush
• Tooth brushing
• Check paws, ears, and eyes

Weekly

• Full brushing
• Ear cleaning
• Nail check/trim if needed

Every 4–6 Weeks

• Bath
• Sanitary tidy or trim (if needed)

Seasonal Check-In (Quarterly)

• Evaluate shampoo/tools; replace anything worn out
• Adjust brushing frequency for shedding or dry skin
• Check course materials or videos for skill refreshers

(Psst! All of our online DIY grooming courses include a printable coat-specific schedule to help you stay on track.)

Take Control of Your Dog’s Grooming Journey

With the right tools, knowledge, and consistency, grooming your dog at home is not only doable; it’s deeply rewarding. You now know how often to brush, bathe, and care for your dog based on their coat type, lifestyle, and the season. Whether you’re brushing out tangles or trimming nails, you’re keeping your pup healthy, comfortable, and confident—all while saving time AND money!

🎓 Want expert support and step-by-step video guidance?

Paw Parent Academy’s online grooming courses show you how to groom your pup from home—safely, affordably, and stress-free!

How Often To Groom Your Dog at Home FAQs

How often should I groom my dog at home?

Most dogs need daily brushing and monthly baths. Adjust based on coat type and activity level.

How often should you get your dog groomed professionally?

With DIY training and tools, most dogs can be groomed entirely at home. Salon visits are optional, but certainly not necessary.

How often can you bathe a dog without drying out their skin?

Every 4–6 weeks works for most dogs. Use moisturizing shampoo and avoid overbathing.

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Daily is ideal; 3 times a week is the minimum.

Can I really groom my dog myself at home?

Yes! With proper guidance and tools, home grooming is safe, affordable, and effective.

How do I know if my dog is overdue for grooming?

Look for mats, strong odor, dirty ears, long nails, or signs of discomfort.