Grooming Guide – How to Meet the Unique Needs of Different Dog Breeds

Let’s face it, no two dogs are the same. That fluffy Pomeranian isn’t going to need the same care as your neighbor’s sleek Doberman. When it comes to grooming, breed matters more than many pet parents realize. Understanding the grooming needs of different dog breeds can save you time, reduce shedding, and keep your dog healthier and happier in the long run.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of grooming by coat type and breed, explain why one-size-fits-all doesn’t apply, and help you figure out what kind of care your pup truly needs, whether at home or in our salon. Ready to find your dog’s perfect grooming match? Let’s dive in.

Why Grooming Needs Vary by Breed

The reason different dogs require different grooming routines comes down to one main thing: their coat type. Some breeds were developed to work in the snow, others to swim, and some to cuddle on the couch. Their coats reflect those roles, and so do their grooming needs.

For example, dogs with thick double coats, like Huskies or Golden Retrievers, benefit from regular de-shedding treatments but shouldn’t be shaved. Meanwhile, Poodles and Doodles have hair that continues to grow and mat if not regularly trimmed and brushed. Terriers with wiry coats need a completely different technique, like hand stripping, to maintain their texture and avoid painful knots.

Ignoring these differences doesn’t just affect how your dog looks. It can lead to skin irritation, overheating, matting, or even infections. Grooming isn’t just about beauty. It’s essential care. And knowing your dog’s breed-based grooming needs helps ensure they stay comfortable and healthy all year round.

Grooming by Coat Type

Let’s break things down by the most common coat types and what each needs:

1. Short-Haired Breeds

Think: Beagles, Boxers, French Bulldogs

Short-haired dogs are often mistaken for “low maintenance,” but they still benefit from regular brushing to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. Bathing once a month is usually enough, unless they get particularly dirty or smelly. Nail trims and ear cleaning should also be part of their regular routine.

2. Long-Haired Breeds

Think: Shih Tzus, Maltese, Afghan Hounds

These dogs need daily brushing to prevent painful tangles and mats. Bathing every 3–4 weeks keeps their coats silky, and many require regular trims to keep their hair manageable. Special attention should be paid to their ears, tails, and paws, where mats tend to hide.

3. Double-Coated Breeds

Think: Golden Retrievers, Huskies, Shelties

These pups have a soft undercoat beneath their topcoat, which sheds heavily during seasonal changes. They need regular brushing, especially during spring and fall, to prevent matting and reduce shedding. De-shedding treatments from professional groomers like ours can help manage the fluff and keep their skin breathing properly.

4. Curly or Wavy-Coated Breeds

Think: Poodles, Doodles, Portuguese Water Dogs

These coats look luxurious, but they’re prone to matting and require frequent brushing, daily, if possible. A visit to a professioanl groomer every 4–6 weeks is essential to keep their coats trimmed, clean, and free from tangles. These breeds benefit greatly from conditioning treatments to maintain moisture in the hair and skin.

5. Wire-Haired Breeds 

Think: Terriers, Schnauzers

Wire-haired dogs need specialized care, including brushing with a slicker brush and regular hand-stripping to remove dead hair and maintain texture. Skipping this can cause the coat to become soft, dull, and uncomfortable for your dog.

Other Breed-Based Grooming Needs

Grooming isn’t only about fur. Breed-specific needs also include:

• Ears: Breeds with floppy ears, like Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds, have a higher chance of developing an ear infections and need regular ear checks and cleaning.

• Eyes: Breeds with prominent eyes, like Pugs or Shih Tzus, may need tear staining cleaned regularly.

• Paws: Long-haired breeds can get mats between their paw pads, so regular trimming is key to preventing discomfort.

• Skin Folds: Bulldogs and other wrinkly-faced breeds need skin folds cleaned and dried to avoid irritation or infection.

These little details make a huge difference in your dog’s overall comfort, and they’re part of the personalized care we deliver every day at Elite Dog Grooming.

How We Tailor Grooming at Elite Dog Grooming

At Elite Dog Grooming, we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. Every pup gets a consultation before their grooming session so we can assess their coat type, lifestyle, and preferences. We consider everything from breed standards to your dog’s personal quirks, because a nervous Yorkie needs a different experience than a relaxed Lab.

We use high-quality, dog-safe products suited to each coat type, and we take our time to make sure your dog feels safe and loved throughout the grooming process. Whether it’s a basic bath or a full grooming package, our services are built around what works best for your dog, not just what’s quick or easy.

And if you’re ever unsure what your dog needs, just ask. We love helping pet parents understand how to care for their dogs between appointments, and how to recognize when it’s time to visit the pros.

Conclusion

Your dog is more than their breed, but their breed is a great place to start when it comes to proper grooming. Understanding the grooming needs of different dog breeds helps prevent common issues, keeps your pup comfortable, and makes every grooming session more effective.

At Elite Dog Grooming, we’re here to take the guesswork out of the process. From Doodles to Dobermans, we help dogs feel their best, one brush, trim, and tail wag at a time.