Short, double, wire and curly coats all need different care. A straightforward guide to brushing, bathing, nails and ears.
Grooming is not vanity. Matted coats hurt, overgrown nails change how a dog walks, and untreated ears become infections.
Brushing by coat
- Short coat: once a week with a rubber mitt is plenty.
- Double coat: twice weekly, daily during the two heavy sheds each year. Never shave it, the undercoat regulates temperature.
- Wire coat: weekly brushing plus hand-stripping or clipping every eight to ten weeks.
- Curly coat: daily. Curls mat quickly and close to the skin, where you cannot see it happening.
Bathing
Most dogs need a bath every six to eight weeks, or when they have found something memorable. Washing too often strips the coat and irritates skin. Always use a dog shampoo.
Nails
If you can hear clicking on a hard floor, they are too long. Trim a small amount often rather than a lot occasionally. If the nails are dark, take tiny slices and stop when you see a pale circle appear.
Ears
Check weekly. A healthy ear is pale and almost odourless. Redness, a strong smell or head shaking means a vet visit, not a home remedy.
Making it easy
Start young, keep sessions short, and pair every step with something good. A dog who enjoys being handled is safer for everyone, including the vet.