​Not all dogs require the same grooming—and getting it wrong can affect their health and happiness. A fluffy Golden Retriever needs more than a trim, while a sleek Boxer still sheds enough to surprise you. Breed-specific grooming takes your dog’s unique coat, size, and sensitivities into account. This guide will help you learn about day-to-day routines for breed-specific grooming, to help keep them clean, comfortable, and confident.

Key Takeaways:

• Short-haired breeds (Beagles, Boxers): Weekly brushing with a rubber mitt; bathe every two to three months.
• Medium-haired breeds (Aussies, Cocker Spaniels): Use a pin brush and slicker brush two to three times a week; bathe monthly.
• Long-haired breeds (Shih Tzus, Maltese): Daily brushing with a slicker brush and fine comb; bathe every three to four weeks.
• Double-coated breeds (Huskies, Golden Retrievers): Never shave; use a deshedding tool during seasonal coat changes.
• Wire-coated breeds (Schnauzers): Hand-strip every six to ten weeks; avoid clippers.
• Curly-coated breeds (Poodles): Daily brushing; clip every four to six weeks; moisturize curls to prevent frizz.
• Small vs. Large breeds: Match grooming tools to body size and coat density.
• High-maintenance breeds: Require area-specific care and more frequent routines.

Grooming Short-Haired Dog Breeds

While short-haired dogs may seem low-maintenance, they still need regular grooming to stay healthy and reduce shedding.

Weekly Brushing and Coat Care

Use a rubber grooming mitt or soft-bristle brush once a week to:

• Remove loose hair
• Distribute natural oils
• Maintain a shiny, healthy coat

Boxers, Beagles, and other short-coated breeds don’t usually mat, but they do shed. Brushing prevents buildup of hair in your home and supports their skin health.

Bathing Routine

Short-haired pups should be bathed every two to three months, or when noticeably dirty. Look for gentle shampoos made for short coats—those with oatmeal or aloe are ideal for reducing dryness and irritation.

Other grooming essentials include:

• Trimming nails every two to four weeks
• Cleaning ears monthly
• Gently wiping any skin folds to prevent infection (especially for Boxers)

Short hair doesn’t mean no care. A consistent schedule makes grooming stress-free for both of you.

Grooming Medium-Haired Dog Breeds

Medium-haired breeds like Australian Shepherds and Cocker Spaniels need regular detangling and seasonal shedding support.

Brushing Tools and Frequency

Use a pin brush to detangle and a slicker brush to smooth and reach the undercoat. Brush at least twice a week, or up to three times if your dog is particularly active outdoors.

Bathing and Maintenance

Bathe every four to six weeks with a mild shampoo. Always brush before and after bathing to avoid matting.

Follow these detangling tips for extra help:

• Use a spray-on detangler for feathered areas (ears, tail, legs)
• Focus on armpits and behind the ears; these spots mat easily
• Offer treats during grooming sessions to keep it positive

Keeping these coats tangle-free means fewer trips to the groomer and a happier pup at home.

Grooming Long-Haired Dog Breeds

Long-haired dogs like Shih Tzus and Maltese require daily attention to prevent mats and discomfort.

Tools of the Trade

• Slicker brush: For general brushing
• Fine-tooth comb: To catch leftover tangles
• De-matting tool or spray: For stubborn knots

Brush daily, working from the back toward the front and finishing with a comb to check your work. Always brush before bathing.

Bathing and Conditioning

Bathe every three to four weeks using gentle, moisturizing shampoo (oatmeal, coconut oil, or aloe-based). Follow with a conditioner or leave-in mist to prevent frizz and ease brushing.

Trims and Style

Schedule trims every four to six weeks to manage coat length and comfort. Even if you prefer a short style, daily brushing is still necessary.

Grooming Double-Coated Dog Breeds

Breeds like Huskies and Golden Retrievers have thick undercoats that require specific care—not shaving.

Why You Shouldn’t Shave

Double coats:

• Regulate body temperature
• Protect from sunburn and debris
• Can grow back patchy or improperly if shaved

Seasonal Shedding Needs

Use a deshedding tool or undercoat rake during coat blow seasons (spring and fall). Brush daily during this time and a few times a week otherwise.

Focus on feathered areas and use a wide-toothed comb to remove outer tangles before raking the undercoat. Be gentle to avoid pulling.

Grooming Wire-Coated Dog Breeds

Wire-haired breeds such as Terriers and Schnauzers have rough-textured coats that benefit from hand-stripping.

What Is Hand-Stripping?

Hand-stripping removes dead hair by hand or with a stripping knife, preserving coat texture and color.

• Do this every six to ten weeks
• Avoid clippers unless advised by a groomer; clipping softens the coat and may irritate the skin

Daily Maintenance

Use a slicker brush to maintain between strips, and check for small mats with a combo comb. Work gently to avoid breakage or discomfort.

Grooming Curly-Coated Dog Breeds

Curly breeds like Poodles and Bichons require consistent care to avoid tight mats and keep curls defined.

Brushing and Clipping Routine

• Brush daily with a slicker brush
• Follow with a wide-tooth comb to catch hidden tangles
• Schedule trims every four to six weeks

Choosing the Right Haircut

Style options depend on your lifestyle:

• Short trim: Easier for active dogs
• Teddy bear cut: Cute and manageable
• Continental clip: For a polished, show-ready look

Work with a professional groomer to find the best fit.

Moisturizing Curls

Use a curl-friendly shampoo and leave-in conditioner spray as a breed-specific grooming technique. Products with shea butter or coconut oil help define curls and reduce static. Always brush while blow-drying on cool.

Grooming by Dog Size

Tools for Small vs. Large Dogs

• Small breeds: Use softer, toy-sized slicker brushes and smaller nail trimmers
• Large breeds: Opt for wide-tooth combs and heavy-duty tools

Grooming Focus by Size

• Small dogs (e.g., Yorkies): More frequent trimming
• Large dogs (e.g., Labs, Goldens): More brushing due to heavier shedding

Match your grooming approach to size as well as coat type.

Grooming High-Maintenance and Sensitive Breeds

Skin Fold Care

Breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs need daily cleaning of skin folds with a soft cloth. Avoid baby wipes or scented products—use dog-safe cleansers only.

Most Demanding Breeds

• Poodles: Daily brushing, frequent clipping
• Shih Tzus: Long hair care, eye area grooming
• Cocker Spaniels: Silky, mat-prone fur
• Huskies: Seasonal shedding care

Create a routine that includes:

• Brushing (daily to weekly)
• Baths (every three to four weeks)
• Nail trimming (every two to four weeks)
• Ear cleaning (weekly)

Pay attention to signs of stress and take breaks if needed. Grooming should feel safe and positive.

Must-Have Grooming Tools and Products

Brushes by Coat Type

• Slicker: Long, thick, or curly coats
• Rubber mitt: Short coats
• Stripping knife: Wire-haired breeds
• Undercoat rake: Double coats

Shampoos and Conditioners

• Choose based on coat and skin sensitivity
• Avoid heavy scents and harsh chemicals
• Use leave-in products for detangling and hydration

Home Grooming Tips

• Use non-slip mats for bathing and brushing
• Clean your tools regularly
• Keep a grooming log using a pet care tracker app

Coat Type Grooming Schedules by Coat Type

Coat Type	Brushing	Bathing	Trimming
Short	Weekly	Every 2–3 months	Rarely
Medium	2–3x/week	Monthly	Occasionally
Long	Daily	Every 3–4 weeks	Every 4–6 weeks
Curly	Daily	Every 2–3 weeks	Every 4–6 weeks
Wire	Every few days	Every 6–10 weeks	With hand-stripping
Double	Several times/week (daily during shedding)	Monthly	No shaving

Your Pup’s Breed-Specific Grooming Deserves Specialized Care

Breed-specific grooming isn’t just a cosmetic choice—it’s part of responsible pet ownership. Each breed comes with its own unique grooming needs, and honoring those needs means better comfort, health, and joy for your furry companion.

Want help maintaining a happy, healthy pup? Puppy Dreams offers expert guidance and grooming insights tailored to your dog’s breed and lifestyle. Learn more about how we care for our puppies at www.puppydreams.com, and follow us on social for more responsible pet care tips.