“How often should I groom my dog?” is the question we hear most at PawBasic in Mississauga — and the honest answer is: it depends entirely on the coat. Here’s the schedule our groomers actually recommend, breed by breed.
Every 4–6 Weeks: Curly and Drop Coats
Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, Bichons, Yorkies, Maltese. These coats grow continuously and mat instead of shedding. Waiting longer than 6 weeks almost always means mats, and mats mean a shorter haircut than you wanted.
Every 6–8 Weeks: Double Coats
Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Corgis, Samoyeds. These breeds need regular de-shedding to remove dead undercoat — especially during the spring and fall coat blows. Never shave them; the coat regulates temperature in both directions.
Every 8–12 Weeks: Short Coats
Beagles, Boxers, Frenchies, Labs. Less coat doesn’t mean no grooming — baths, nails, ears, and de-shedding keep skin healthy and shedding manageable. Nails especially: most short-coated dogs we see are overdue on nails, not baths.
The Home-Care Layer
Between professional grooms: brush curly coats 3–4 times a week, double coats twice a week, short coats weekly. Nails every 3–4 weeks — if you hear clicking on the floor, they’re too long.
Why Consistency Beats Everything
A dog groomed on schedule learns the routine, stays mat-free, and enjoys the table. A dog groomed twice a year re-learns everything each visit, usually with a matted coat. Regular grooming is cheaper, faster, and kinder — the grooming triple win.
FAQs
Can I groom my dog too often?
Baths more than weekly can dry the skin, but professional grooming every 4 weeks is completely safe for coated breeds.
Do puppies follow the same schedule?
Start earlier and lighter — short, positive visits from 12–16 weeks build a dog who loves grooming for life.
What if my dog is already matted?
Book sooner, not later. Mats tighten daily. We’ll always choose the most humane option and set you up with a schedule so it doesn’t recur.
Set Your Dog’s Schedule
PawBasic is at 35 King St E, Unit 12 in Cooksville, Mississauga. Tell us your breed and we’ll recommend the right interval. Book online or call (647) 646-4729.