How Often Should a Short-Haired Dog Be Groomed?

Perhaps one of the most common questions asked of professional pet groomers is how often a dog should be groomed. The answer varies; it depends on the type of dog, its coat length, how often it sheds, and how much brushing you’re willing to provide throughout the week.

It’s also important to note that a dog’s coat is only one small portion of the grooming process. For instance, canine nails should be trimmed once a month. So, along with its coat, be sure to pay attention to your pup’s hygienic needs.

For a short-haired dog, such as a pug or Boston terrier, an occasional bath and minimal brushing will suffice. If your dog’s breed sheds excessively, consider asking your favorite pet groomer about low-shed services, also known as carding. Many groomers offer a thorough brushing designed to reduce shedding in the coming months. However, it’s important to note that nothing will completely stop shedding, not even close shaving.

Short-haired double-coated dogs, such as Alaskan Huskies or Shiba Inus, usually shed seasonally. You can plan your dog’s grooming sessions up to four times per year to remove the dead undercoat before it’s all over the floor.

Most pet owners assume their short-haired dog requires less grooming because of its coat length. That’s not true; a short-haired dog requires the same grooming standards as any other dog breed, and sometimes a bit more.

To keep your pup’s coat healthy and well-groomed, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

• Invest in a Good Brush – Since even short-haired dogs shed their coats, they need a thorough brushing occasionally. Find a stiff bristle brush made specifically for short-haired dogs. You can check any pet supply store.
• Gentle Shampoo and Conditioner – Ideally, you’ll bathe your short-haired pup once a week. Before each bath, use your new stiff bristle brush to go over its coat. Then, use gentle dog shampoo and conditioner so the chemicals do not leave behind stickiness or cause a rash.
• Nail Trimming – Like dogs’ coats, canine nails require trimming every now and then. For a short-haired dog, you’ll want to provide monthly nail trimming to achieve the best results. By trimming your puppy’s nails, you can reduce the risk of overgrown nails and discomfort.
• Visual Check – Occasionally, you should conduct a visual check of your dog’s appearance. Inspect your dog’s paw pads, ears, and genital area during bath time to check for dryness, cracks, cuts, weird odors, and healthy skin.

If you have a short-haired puppy, be sure to provide regular grooming and use safe, non-toxic products for bath time each week. If you need pet grooming services, Primped Pooches is just a phone call away. Give us a call at 903-654-2794 for mobile pet grooming services that arrive directly to your doorstep whenever you need us!