Regular grooming prevents painful matting, skin infections, dental disease, and nail-related joint problems. It is also an opportunity to check your dog for lumps, parasites, and other health issues. This guide covers all grooming tasks with frequency recommendations and technique tips.
Brushing by Coat Type
- Short smooth coats: Rubber curry brush weekly
- Medium double coats: Slicker brush + undercoat rake 2-3x/week, daily during shedding season
- Long fine coats: Daily brushing with pin brush and comb
- Curly coats: Daily slicker brushing; professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
Bathing
Every 4-6 weeks for most dogs. Always brush before bathing. Use dog-specific shampoo. Rinse thoroughly. Dry completely — especially ears and skin folds.
Nail Trimming
Every 3-4 weeks. Trim just the curved tip. Light nails: avoid the pink quick. Dark nails: trim small increments until a white/grey center dot appears. If quick is nicked, styptic powder stops bleeding.
Ear Cleaning
Monthly for most dogs. Apply dog ear solution to cotton ball, wipe visible canal only. Signs of infection (strong smell, dark discharge, redness) require vet care.
Dental Care
Daily brushing with dog toothpaste is gold standard. VOHC-approved dental chews provide supplemental benefit. See our Teeth Cleaning Guide for full protocol.