How often should your dog be groomed? A guide by coat type

It is the question we are asked more than any other, and the honest answer is: it depends on the coat. A curly Cockapoo and a smooth Staffie have very different needs, and booking at the right gap is the single best thing you can do for your dog's comfort, and for your wallet.

Here is a rough guide, coat by coat.

Curly and wool coats: every 4 to 6 weeks

Poodles, Bichons, and most doodles and "poos" (Cockapoos, Cavapoos, Labradoodles) have hair that keeps growing and does not shed much. The loose hair stays in the coat, which is why it knots so easily, especially behind the ears, in the armpits and where a collar or harness rubs.

Booked every four to six weeks, a curly coat can be kept at the length you like with a comfortable brush out. Leave it three months and the knots often turn into mats, and the kindest option becomes a short clip.

Long, silky coats: every 6 to 8 weeks

Shih Tzus, Yorkies, Lhasa Apsos and Cavaliers have fine hair that tangles at the ends. A full groom every six to eight weeks, with a bath and brush in between if you keep them long, keeps the coat soft and the eyes and paws tidy.

Wiry coats: every 8 to 12 weeks

Westies, Schnauzers and Border Terriers have a harsh topcoat. They do not need cutting as often, but a tidy every two to three months keeps them looking smart and stops the beard and feet getting heavy.

Double coats: a bath and brush every 8 to 12 weeks

Huskies, Golden Retrievers, Collies and German Shepherds have a soft undercoat beneath a tougher topcoat. These coats should not be clipped short. What they need is a thorough bath and a de-shed to lift out the loose undercoat, especially in spring and autumn when they blow their coat.

Short, smooth coats: every 8 to 12 weeks

Staffies, Labradors, Beagles and Frenchies do not need haircuts, but they still shed and they still get smelly. A bath and brush every couple of months, with nails and ears done at the same time, keeps them fresh.

Signs your dog is overdue

• You can feel knots or lumps of hair close to the skin.
• Their nails click on the kitchen floor.
• Hair is growing over their eyes or between their paw pads.
• They smell doggy within a day or two of a bath at home.
• They are scratching, or rubbing their face along the carpet.

Between grooms

A quick brush a few times a week makes a huge difference, especially for curly coats. Use a slicker brush and then a metal comb: if the comb goes through to the skin, you have done it properly. If you are not sure which brush suits your dog, ask us at your next appointment.