Grooming and Coat Care for Your Dog
FurSeasons Spa provides professional grooming and bathing for all coat types, keeping dogs healthy, comfortable, and looking their best. Regular brushing, proper bathing, and coat care prevent mats, shedding, and skin issues.
Dog Grooming and Bathing Guide at FurSeasons Spa
Types of Dog Hair Coats
Selective breeding has created dogs with different coat types and grooming needs. Some breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, and Shih Tzus, have hair that grows continuously and does not shed. These dogs require regular visits to the salon for shampooing and trimming. Other breeds, like Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and many Retrievers, have long, thick coats with a protective outer layer of guard hairs and a soft undercoat for insulation. These dogs experience heavy seasonal shedding, typically in late spring and late fall. Short-haired breeds often shed moderately year-round and lack a dense undercoat.
Grooming Frequency
Regular brushing removes loose hair, dead skin cells, and debris, distributing natural oils for a healthy coat. Long, silky, or curly coats require daily brushing to prevent tangles or mats, especially around sensitive areas like ears, armpits, and legs. Short-haired dogs may need brushing less frequently, but daily brushing helps reduce loose hair and dander, keeping your home cleaner.
Daily inspection of your dog’s coat also helps detect unusual lumps, bumps, or parasites. After outdoor play, check for burrs or twigs that could cause irritation.
Choosing the Right Brush
Different brushes work best for different coat types:
Slicker brushes: Ideal for curly, non-shedding coats like Poodles.
Combs or stiff bristle brushes: Suitable for medium-length coats like Retrievers.
Short-bristled brushes or grooming gloves: Perfect for smooth-coated dogs like Boxers or Pointers.
Long-toothed combs: Best for long-haired dogs like Collies, especially for detangling or seasonal shedding.
Always be gentle when brushing to avoid pulling on tangles. Consult your breeder or groomer for recommendations tailored to your dog’s coat type.
Handling Tangles and Burrs
Minor tangles or small burrs can often be brushed out. For severe mats, use clippers carefully; scissors are not recommended to prevent injury. If mats cause irritation, seek professional grooming or veterinary care. Always brush out tangles before bathing, as mats become harder to remove when wet.
Bathing Guidelines
Most dogs need occasional baths when dirty or smelly.
Non-shedding breeds: Every 6–8 weeks.
Dogs with heavy undercoats: Bathe during seasonal shedding (spring/fall).
Bathing frequency depends on age, lifestyle, coat type, and health. Puppies or dogs that play outdoors often may need more frequent baths. Dogs with allergies may require daily bathing until the condition improves. Use dog-specific shampoos; human or baby shampoos are too harsh.
Bathing Steps
Use warm water for comfort and better cleaning.
Apply shampoo evenly, working it through the entire coat.
Rinse thoroughly. For medicated shampoos, follow instructions for soaking time.
Apply a conditioner if needed to maintain skin moisture and reduce dandruff.
Summer Haircuts
Long-haired dogs may benefit from a shorter coat in summer, but leave at least 1” (2.5 cm) of hair to prevent sunburn. Some breeds may experience delayed hair regrowth, known as post-clipping alopecia.
Final Recommendations
A dog’s coat is an important indicator of overall health. Healthy dogs have shiny, clean coats with minimal shedding. If your dog’s coat appears dull or greasy, consult your veterinarian before changing grooming routines.
