How Often to Groom Your Dog [By Coat Type - UK 2026]
Folkestone Groomers Team
19 September 2025
12 min read
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How Often Should You Groom Your Dog? [UK Frequency Guide 2026]
Professional Grooming Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about dog grooming frequency. Individual grooming needs vary based on health conditions, activity level, and coat quality. Always consult a qualified Professional Dog Groomer or veterinarian for personalised advice, especially if your dog has skin conditions, allergies, or behavioural concerns that may affect grooming. For breeds requiring hand-stripping or specialized techniques, seek groomers with relevant qualifications.
Here's the truth about dog grooming frequency: there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your Golden Retriever's grooming needs are completely different from your neighbour's Whippet, and that's perfectly normal.
The key factors that determine how often your dog needs grooming? Coat type, lifestyle, and the UK's ever-changing seasons. Let's break down exactly what your furry friend needs and when.
Most dogs need professional grooming every 4-8 weeks, with short-haired breeds requiring less frequent visits (8-12 weeks) and long-haired breeds needing more attention (4-6 weeks). Double-coated breeds should never be shaved and benefit from professional de-shedding during UK spring and autumn moulting seasons. Daily brushing at home extends time between professional grooms and prevents matting.
Grooming Frequency Quick Reference Table
Coat Type
Professional Grooming
Home Brushing
Annual Visits
Short-Haired
Every 8-12 weeks
Weekly
4-6 times
Long-Haired
Every 4-6 weeks
Daily
8-12 times
Double-Coated
Every 6-8 weeks
Daily (shedding season)
6-8 times
Curly/Wavy
Every 4-6 weeks
Every 2-3 days
8-12 times
Wire-Haired
Every 6-8 weeks
2-3 times weekly
6-8 times
Puppies (under 6 months)
Every 8-12 weeks
Daily (gentle)
3-5 times
*Frequencies may vary based on lifestyle, health conditions, and seasonal shedding patterns
Why Regular Grooming Matters More Than You Think
Grooming isn't just about looking good (though your dog will certainly appreciate the compliments). Regular grooming is essential for your dog's health and wellbeing.
Health Benefits of Regular Grooming:
Early detection of skin problems, lumps, or parasites
Prevention of matting that can cause painful skin pulling
Reduced shedding around your home
Better temperature regulation through proper coat maintenance
Improved circulation from regular brushing
Stronger bond between you and your dog
How Often Should Dogs Get Groomed by Coat Type
Not sure what coat type your dog has? Here's how to tell, plus exactly how often they need professional grooming:
Short-Haired Breeds: The Low-Maintenance Champions
Think: Beagles, Boxers, Whippets, French Bulldogs, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Jack Russell Terriers
Professional grooming: Every 8-12 weeks (can extend to 12-16 weeks for very low-shedding breeds)
Home care: Weekly brushing (5-10 minutes)
Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks or as needed
Why this schedule works: Short coats don't mat or tangle, making them the easiest to maintain. However, they still shed year-round (especially Labradors and Beagles), so regular brushing removes loose hair and distributes natural oils for a healthy, shiny coat. Professional grooming focuses on nail trimming, ear cleaning, and thorough de-shedding with high-velocity dryers.[1]
Breed-Specific Notes:
French Bulldogs & Pugs: Need facial fold cleaning weekly - include this during home grooming sessions
Labradors: Heavy seasonal shedders - increase brushing to 2-3 times weekly during spring and autumn
Whippets & Greyhounds: Sensitive skin - use soft bristle brushes and gentle, hypoallergenic shampoos
The reality check: Skip a few days of brushing and you'll be dealing with painful mats that might require shaving off. Trust us, daily brushing is much easier than explaining to your Yorkie why they look like a poodle.
Double-Coated Breeds: The Seasonal Shedders
Think: German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Huskies, Border Collies, Corgis
Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
Home care: 2-3 times weekly, daily during shedding season
Pro tip: These dogs "blow their coat" twice a year. During these periods (spring and autumn), you'll want professional de-shedding treatments to save your sanity and your hoover.
Bernese Mountain Dogs: Special Considerations
Bernese Mountain Dogs have particularly thick double coats that require more attention than the average double-coated breed. Their dense, silky outer coat and woolly undercoat were designed for Swiss Alpine winters, which means they shed heavily twice a year and need careful maintenance year-round.[2]
Bernese Mountain Dog grooming schedule:
Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks year-round (more frequently during shedding seasons)
Home brushing: 2-3 times weekly (15-20 minutes per session)
Shedding season (spring/autumn): Daily brushing sessions of 20-30 minutes
Professional de-shedding: March and September (critical months for UK climate)
Important: Never shave a Bernese Mountain Dog. Their double coat regulates temperature in both hot and cold weather. Professional de-shedding treatments remove loose undercoat without damaging the coat structure.
Essential Tool: De-Shedding Brush for Double-Coated Breeds
If you own a Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Husky, Bernese Mountain Dog, or any double-coated breed, a professional de-shedding tool will save you hours of cleanup and reduce professional grooming costs during shedding seasons.
How de-shedding tools work: Unlike regular brushes, these tools reach deep into the undercoat to remove loose, dead hair before it ends up all over your furniture. The specialized stainless steel edge grabs shedding undercoat while leaving the healthy topcoat intact.
When to use it:
Spring shedding (March-May): 2-3 times weekly, 10-15 minute sessions
Autumn shedding (September-November): 2-3 times weekly
Rest of year: Once weekly for maintenance
Pro tip: Always brush with a regular slicker brush first to remove surface tangles, then follow up with the de-shedding tool. Never use on wet coat or press too hard - let the tool do the work.
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Curly and Wavy Coats: The Continuous Growers
Think: Poodles, Labradoodles, Bichon Frises, Portuguese Water Dogs
Professional grooming: Every 4-6 weeks
Home care: Every other day brushing
The good news: These coats don't shed much. The challenge: They grow continuously and mat easily. Regular professional grooming keeps them looking fabulous and feeling comfortable.
For Poodle and Doodle owners specifically, establishing a comprehensive daily routine is essential to prevent matting between professional appointments. Our detailed breed-specific matting prevention guide provides step-by-step instructions for maintaining these beautiful but high-maintenance coats.
Wire-Haired Breeds: The Texture Specialists
Think: Wire Fox Terriers, Airedales, Jack Russell Terriers (wire variety)
Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
Home care: Weekly brushing
Special requirement: Hand-stripping every 3-4 months to maintain proper coat texture. Not all groomers offer this service, so ask specifically.
Puppy vs Adult Dog Grooming Cadence
Age makes a significant difference in grooming frequency and approach. Here's what you need to know for each life stage:
Frequency: Every 6-8 weeks for socialisation and habit formation - similar to puppy training classes that help young dogs adapt to new experiences
Focus: Gentle introduction to grooming tools, handling, and basic hygiene
Home care: Daily gentle brushing (2-3 minutes) to build positive associations
Adult Dog Grooming Schedule (6 months - 7 years)
Frequency: Based on coat type (as outlined above)
Focus: Maintenance, health monitoring, and breed-specific styling
Home care: Regular brushing schedule based on coat requirements
Senior Dog Grooming Schedule (7+ years)
Frequency: May need more frequent visits (every 4-6 weeks) for comfort
Focus: Shorter sessions, joint-friendly positioning, extra nail care
Special considerations: Arthritis-friendly grooming tables and gentle handling.
UK Seasonal Grooming: What Changes Throughout the Year
Living in the UK means dealing with four distinct seasons – and your dog's grooming needs change with each one. Here's what to expect:
Spring Grooming (March-May): The Great Shed-Off
Spring is shedding season for most dogs. Your double-coated breeds will literally blow their winter coats, and you'll wonder if you've accidentally adopted a sheep.
UK Spring Shedding Timeline:
Early March: Book professional de-shedding appointments before peak season
Mid-March to April: Peak shedding period - daily brushing essential
Late April to May: Gradual reduction in shedding, maintain regular schedule
Professional De-Shedding Treatment Timing: Book your appointment for early March, before the heaviest shedding begins. This proactive approach removes loose undercoat before it ends up all over your home.
Increase brushing frequency to daily for heavy shedders (Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies)
Book professional de-shedding treatments in early March for best results
Check for winter skin damage from central heating - look for dry, flaky skin
Start flea and tick prevention as parasites become active with warmer weather
Consider omega-3 supplements to support healthy coat transition
Summer Grooming (June-August): Keeping Cool and Comfortable
Summer grooming is about comfort and protection. Contrary to popular belief, you shouldn't shave your dog completely – their coat provides important UV protection.
Shorter cuts for long-haired breeds (but never shaved to the skin)
More frequent baths due to increased outdoor activity
Paw care for hot pavement protection
Extra attention to ears if your dog loves swimming
Autumn Grooming (September-November): Preparing for Winter
Autumn brings another shedding season as dogs grow their winter coats. It's also muddy season in the UK!
UK Autumn Coat Change Schedule:
September: Summer coat begins shedding, book second de-shedding treatment
October: Peak autumn shedding - winter undercoat growing in
November: Winter coat establishment, reduce grooming frequency slightly
Why Autumn De-Shedding Matters: Unlike spring shedding (removing winter coat), autumn shedding removes the lighter summer coat to make room for the dense winter undercoat. Professional treatment in September helps this transition.
UK Mud Season Survival Guide:
Invest in a good doormat and towels specifically for paws
Consider protective paw balm before muddy walks
Trim hair between paw pads to reduce mud accumulation
Keep grooming wipes handy for quick clean-ups
Second de-shedding season for double-coated breeds - book in early September
Mud management with more frequent paw cleaning and protective measures
Coat conditioning to prepare for winter weather and central heating
Nail trimming as outdoor exercise may decrease with shorter days
Ear cleaning becomes more important as wet weather increases ear infection risk
Winter Grooming (December-February): Protecting Against the Elements
Winter grooming focuses on protection and comfort. The UK's wet, cold weather presents unique challenges.
Thorough drying after baths to prevent chilling
Paw protection from salt and ice
Dry skin management with omega supplements
Longer coats may need more frequent grooming to prevent debris accumulation
No Space to Wash at Home?
Self-service dog wash stations across the UK offer warm water, raised tubs, and professional dryers—perfect for muddy post-walk cleanups without the mess at home.
Here's the reality: some things you can absolutely do at home, and others are best left to the professionals. Let's be honest about what's what.
What Professional Groomers Do Best
Professional groomers have specialised equipment and training that's hard to replicate at home. For a complete overview of professional services, check out our guide to Dog Grooming Services.
Here's something important: the dog grooming industry isn't regulated in the UK. This means anyone can call themselves a groomer, so you need to be selective.
Green Flags (What to Look For):
Proper insurance and recognised qualifications
Clean, well-ventilated facilities you can tour
Patient handling techniques with anxious dogs
Willingness to discuss your dog's specific needs
Positive reviews from local dog owners
Red Flags (Run Away If You See These):
Unsupervised drying equipment (cage dryers left unattended)
Rushed or impatient handling of dogs
Won't let you see the grooming area
No insurance or safety protocols
Prices that seem too good to be true (they usually are)
Home Grooming: What You Can Handle
Good news: you can absolutely handle basic grooming between professional appointments. Here's what you need and how to do it safely.
Nail clippers (if you're comfortable using them) - or see our guide to safe paw trimming
Dog-specific shampoo (human products can irritate skin)
Ear cleaning solution and cotton pads
Dog toothbrush and paste (yes, really!)
Recommended: Professional Slicker Brush for Home Grooming
A quality slicker brush is the foundation of any home grooming kit. These brushes work on virtually all coat types - from Labradors to Poodles - and are particularly effective at removing loose undercoat during shedding seasons.
What makes a good slicker brush:
Fine, bent wire bristles that penetrate the coat without scratching skin
Self-cleaning retractable bristles for easy hair removal
Ergonomic non-slip handle for comfortable 10-15 minute sessions
Protective ball tips on bristle ends to prevent skin irritation
Usage guide: Work in sections, brushing in the direction of hair growth. For double-coated breeds, use short strokes to reach the undercoat. For long-haired breeds, start at the ends and work toward the skin to prevent painful pulling. Check your work with a metal comb - if the comb glides through smoothly, you've done a thorough job.
Here's a realistic schedule that won't overwhelm you or your dog:
Daily (5-10 minutes):
Quick brush for long-haired breeds
Teeth brushing (work up to this gradually)
Visual health check while petting
Weekly (15-30 minutes):
Thorough brushing for all coat types
Ear cleaning (if needed)
Paw inspection and cleaning
Monthly:
Nail trimming (if you're comfortable)
Bath if needed
Detailed health examination
Making Grooming a Positive Experience
The secret to successful grooming? Start early, go slow, and make it rewarding. For anxious or nervous dogs, patience and gradual desensitisation are essential for successful grooming sessions. Here's how:
Start grooming routines in puppyhood if possible
Use high-value treats during grooming sessions
Keep sessions short and end on a positive note
Gradually introduce new tools and techniques
Never force or rush the process
The Real Cost of Dog Grooming in the UK
Let's talk money. Grooming costs vary significantly across the UK, and understanding these costs helps you budget effectively for your dog's needs.
What You'll Actually Pay (2025 UK Prices)
Professional Grooming Costs:
Small dogs (under 10kg): £25-£40 basic, £35-£55 full groom, £40-£60 de-shedding
Medium dogs (10-25kg): £35-£50 basic, £45-£70 full groom, £50-£75 de-shedding
Large dogs (25kg+): £45-£65 basic, £60-£90 full groom, £65-£95 de-shedding
Reality check: London and South East England prices are typically 20-30% higher than these averages.
Here's what you can expect to spend annually based on your dog's maintenance level:
Low maintenance breeds (short coats): £200-£400 per year
Medium maintenance breeds (double coats): £400-£700 per year
High maintenance breeds (long/curly coats): £700-£1,200 per year
Special Situations That Change Everything
Sometimes your dog's grooming needs change due to health, age, or lifestyle factors. Here's what to watch for:
Health Conditions
Skin allergies: May require weekly medicated baths
Arthritis: More frequent nail trims as exercise decreases
Obesity: Additional skin fold cleaning and monitoring
Lifestyle Factors
Active outdoor dogs: More frequent bathing and paw care
Show dogs: Weekly professional grooming
Therapy dogs: Increased grooming for hygiene standards
Age Considerations
Puppies: Gentle introduction to grooming routines
Senior dogs: More frequent but shorter grooming sessions
Pregnant/nursing dogs: Adjusted schedule for comfort
Your Most Common Grooming Questions Answered
How often should you get a dog groomed professionally?
Most dogs need professional grooming every 4-8 weeks depending on coat type. Short-haired breeds can go 8-12 weeks, while long-haired and curly-coated breeds require appointments every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting and maintain coat health.[3]
The exact frequency depends on several factors:
Coat type and texture - Continuously growing coats (Poodles, Bichons) need more frequent professional care
Lifestyle and activity level - Active outdoor dogs accumulate more dirt and debris
Season - Spring and autumn shedding periods may require additional de-shedding appointments
Your home grooming routine - Daily brushing at home extends time between professional visits
How often should you groom a dog at home?
Home brushing frequency ranges from daily for long-haired breeds to weekly for short-haired dogs. Double-coated breeds need daily attention during shedding seasons (spring and autumn) and 2-3 times weekly otherwise. Curly coats require brushing every 2-3 days to prevent matting.[4]
Here's your complete home grooming frequency guide:
Double-coated breeds during spring/autumn shedding
Puppies (for training and bonding)
Every 2-3 Days:
Curly and wavy coats (Poodles, Doodles, Bichons)
Wire-haired breeds (Terriers, Schnauzers)
Weekly:
Short-haired breeds (Beagles, Boxers, French Bulldogs)
Double-coated breeds outside shedding season (baseline maintenance)
How do I know if my dog actually needs grooming?
Your dog is telling you they need grooming when you notice:
Visible matting or tangles you can't brush out
Strong odour that doesn't improve with bathing
Overgrown nails clicking on floors
Dirty or waxy ears with a smell
Excessive shedding or dull, greasy coat
Can I really groom my dog myself?
Absolutely – for basic maintenance. You can handle brushing, bathing, and even nail trimming with practice. However, professional groomers excel at:
Breed-specific cuts that require training
De-shedding treatments with professional equipment
Handling anxious or difficult dogs safely
Spotting health issues during grooming
My dog hates being groomed – what can I do?
Patience and positive reinforcement work wonders. Here's your action plan:
Start with very short sessions (2-3 minutes)
Use high-value treats throughout the process
Consider professional help for severe anxiety
Never force or punish during grooming
Gradually increase session length as they improve
How often should I actually bathe my dog?
It depends on their coat and lifestyle:
Most dogs: Every 4-8 weeks
Oily coats (like Basset Hounds): Every 2-4 weeks
Dry or sensitive skin: Every 8-12 weeks
Active outdoor dogs: As needed for cleanliness
Is it safe to groom my pregnant dog?
Yes, but with modifications:
Shorter, gentler sessions to avoid stress
Avoid stress-inducing procedures like nail trimming if she's anxious
Focus on hygiene and comfort rather than styling
Consult your vet for specific guidance
Should I shave my double-coated dog?
No, you should never shave a double-coated dog. This is one of the most important grooming rules to follow. Here's why:
Temperature regulation: Double coats insulate against both heat and cold
UV protection: The coat protects skin from harmful sun rays
Coat damage: Shaving can permanently alter coat texture and growth
Skin problems: Increased risk of sunburn, hot spots, and irritation
Instead: Use professional de-shedding treatments and regular brushing to manage the undercoat naturally.
How often are professional grooms needed?
Professional grooming frequency depends on your dog's coat type:
Short-haired breeds: Every 8-12 weeks
Long-haired breeds: Every 4-6 weeks
Double-coated breeds: Every 6-8 weeks
Curly/wavy coats: Every 4-6 weeks
Wire-haired breeds: Every 6-8 weeks
Remember: These are guidelines. Active dogs or those with skin conditions may need more frequent professional care.
How many times a year should a dog be groomed?
Most dogs need professional grooming 4-12 times per year:
Low maintenance (short coats): 4-6 times per year
Medium maintenance (double coats): 6-8 times per year
High maintenance (long/curly coats): 8-12 times per year
Additional considerations: Add 2-4 extra sessions during spring and autumn shedding seasons for double-coated breeds.
What happens if I don't groom my dog regularly?
Skipping regular grooming can lead to serious problems:
Matting: Painful tangles that pull on skin and restrict movement
Skin infections: Trapped moisture and bacteria under matted fur
Overgrown nails: Can cause pain, difficulty walking, and joint problems
Ear infections: Wax buildup and trapped moisture
Dental disease: Tartar buildup leading to tooth loss and pain
The Bottom Line on Dog Grooming Frequency
Here's what really matters: your dog's grooming schedule should be based on their individual needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach. While short-haired breeds might only need professional grooming every 8-12 weeks, your Poodle or Golden Retriever will be much happier with monthly appointments.
Remember that seasonal grooming isn't just about appearance – it's about health, comfort, and quality of life. The UK's changing seasons mean your dog's needs change too, and adapting your grooming routine accordingly will keep them comfortable year-round.
The key is establishing a routine that works for both you and your dog, then adjusting as needed for health conditions, lifestyle changes, or seasonal requirements. When in doubt, consult with a professional groomer or your veterinarian – they can provide personalised advice based on your dog's specific needs.
Most importantly: regular grooming, whether at home or professional, strengthens the bond between you and your dog while keeping them healthy and comfortable. That's worth every minute and every penny.
