How Often Should Your Dog Be Groomed?

Your doodle needs more trims than you think…

Every dog owner knows grooming keeps their pup looking adorable, but did you know it’s also vital for their health and comfort? The truth is, grooming schedules vary by breed, coat type, and lifestyle. At Unleashed Dog Hotel in Murray, Utah, our professional groomers are here to make sure your pup not only looks their best but feels their best too.

If you’re wondering, “How often should I groom my dog?” — here’s your grooming-by-breed guide for Utah dogs.

Why Grooming Matters Beyond Looks

Regular grooming prevents:

  • Painful matting and tangles

  • Skin irritation and hot spots

  • Overgrown nails that cause joint issues

  • Ear infections in floppy-eared breeds

  • Excess shedding in double-coated dogs

Plus, grooming appointments allow professionals to spot early signs of health concerns, like lumps, ear infections, or skin allergies.

Dog Grooming Schedule: By Coat & Breed

Long-Haired Breeds (Every 4–6 Weeks)

Breeds: Goldendoodles, Poodles, Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers

  • Require frequent trims and brushing to prevent matting

  • Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks keeps their coat manageable

  • Daily at-home brushing recommended between appointments

👉 Doodle parents — yes, your pup needs trims more often than you think!

Double-Coated Breeds (Every 6–12 Weeks)

Breeds: Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies

  • These dogs blow their coat seasonally, especially in Utah’s spring and fall

  • Grooming every 6–12 weeks helps manage shedding and keeps coats healthy

  • Deshedding treatments make a huge difference for your home

Short-Haired Breeds (Every 8–12 Weeks)

Breeds: Beagles, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers, Pit Bulls

  • Less prone to matting but still benefit from baths and nail trims

  • Grooming every 8–12 weeks helps with odor control and skin health

  • Regular nail trims are essential to prevent discomfort

Curly or Wavy-Coated Breeds (Every 4–6 Weeks)

Breeds: Doodles, Poodles, Portuguese Water Dogs

  • High-maintenance coats that mat easily

  • Need consistent professional grooming every 4–6 weeks

  • Skipping trims can lead to painful tangles close to the skin

Flat-Faced Breeds (Every 4–8 Weeks)

Breeds: Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers

  • Special care needed around facial folds to avoid infections and fungus

  • Grooming every 4–8 weeks helps keep wrinkles clean and nails short

How Utah’s Climate Affects Grooming

Living in the Salt Lake Valley, Utah means seasonal coat changes are significant. Cold winters and hot, HOT summers affect shedding, paw pad health, and even skin dryness. Regular grooming ensures your dog’s coat adapts comfortably to the changing seasons.

Signs Your Dog Needs Grooming Sooner

  • Matted or tangled fur

  • Long nails clicking on the floor

  • Strong “doggy” odor

  • Discharge or odor from ears

  • Excessive shedding or skin flakes

The Bottom Line: Consistency Is Key

Every dog is different, but one thing is certain — regular grooming keeps your pup healthy, comfortable, and happy. At Unleashed Dog Hotel in Murray, Utah, our grooming experts create a custom schedule tailored to your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle.

Ready to Book Your Dog’s Next Grooming Appointment?

Click below to schedule and keep your dog looking (and feeling) their very best.

👉 https://www.dogsunleashed.com/grooming
☎️ Call (385)519-0748 with any questions for our expert groomers

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