5 Dog Hair Types | Guide to Grooming Different Breeds

In the world of professional dog grooming, understanding the intricacies of different dog breeds is essential. Each breed has unique coat types, temperaments, and specific grooming needs that require expert knowledge to ensure their optimal health, comfort, and appearance. This comprehensive guide aims to equip professional groomers with the necessary insights to tailor their grooming services to meet the individual needs of every breed.

The Art of Understanding Different Coat Types

Dog coats come in a variety of textures, lengths, and densities, each requiring specialized grooming techniques. Let’s dive into the five primary coat types—short, long, double, curly, and wire—and the breeds that fall under each category.

1. Short Coats

Short-coated dogs have sleek, low-maintenance coats that shed frequently. Groomers should focus on regular brushing to remove loose hair, distribute natural oils, and maintain the shine of the coat.

• Breeds with Short Coats:

  • Beagle

  • Boxer

  • Dalmatian

  • Labrador Retriever

  • Great Dane

  • Doberman Pinscher

  • Pit Bull Terrier

  • Weimaraner

  • Vizsla

Grooming Needs:

• Brush with a bristle or rubber brush once or twice a week.

• Bathe occasionally, using mild shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils.

• Regular ear cleaning, especially for floppy-eared breeds like the Beagle, to prevent infections.

2. Long Coats

Long-haired dogs often require daily grooming to prevent tangles and matting. Regular brushing and trimming are crucial to maintaining their luxurious coats.

• Breeds with Long Coats:

  • Shih Tzu

  • Yorkshire Terrier

  • Afghan Hound

  • Maltese

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

  • Lhasa Apso

  • Havanese

  • Collie

  • Old English Sheepdog

Grooming Needs:

• Daily brushing with a slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent mats.

• Regular trimming to keep coats at manageable lengths.

• Frequent baths to keep the coat clean, but use a gentle shampoo to avoid stripping the hair of its natural oils.

• Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks for breed-specific cuts.

3. Double Coats

Double-coated breeds have two layers of fur—a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat. These dogs tend to shed seasonally, especially during spring and fall, requiring special attention during shedding periods.

• Breeds with Double Coats:

  • Golden Retriever

  • Siberian Husky

  • German Shepherd

  • Bernese Mountain Dog

  • Corgi (Pembroke & Cardigan)

  • Australian Shepherd

  • Shetland Sheepdog

  • Akita

  • Alaskan Malamute

Grooming Needs:

• Regular brushing, with special attention during seasonal shedding. Use an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool.

• Avoid shaving double-coated breeds, as their coat provides insulation and protects them from temperature extremes.

• Regular baths, particularly during shedding season, to help loosen the undercoat.

4. Curly Coats

Curly-coated dogs are often low-shedding but need regular grooming to prevent matting. Their curls can trap debris, so frequent maintenance is crucial to keep the coat clean and healthy.

• Breeds with Curly Coats:

  • Poodle

  • Bichon Frise

  • Portuguese Water Dog

  • Curly-Coated Retriever

  • Lagotto Romagnolo

  • Irish Water Spaniel

  • Cockapoo (and other Poodle mixes like Labradoodle and Goldendoodle)

Grooming Needs:

• Daily brushing with a slicker brush and comb to prevent matting.

• Regular professional haircuts every 4-6 weeks to maintain the coat’s shape and texture.

• Frequent baths and conditioning to keep the curls clean and manageable.

5. Wire Coats

Wire-coated breeds have a coarse, wiry outer coat that protects them from dirt and moisture. These breeds require hand-stripping, a technique used to maintain the coat’s texture and prevent softening.

• Breeds with Wire Coats:

  • Wirehaired Dachshund

  • Scottish Terrier

  • Airedale Terrier

  • Brussels Griffon

  • Border Terrier

  • Irish Terrier

  • Wire Fox Terrier

  • Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Grooming Needs:

• Hand-stripping every few months to remove dead hair and maintain coat texture.

• Regular brushing with a slicker brush to prevent mats.

• Occasional baths with gentle shampoos, but avoid over-bathing as it can soften the coat.

Why is Breed-Specific Grooming Important?

Grooming isn’t just about appearance—it plays a key role in maintaining a dog’s health. Each breed comes with its own specific needs that, if not met, can lead to discomfort or health problems. Here are some examples of breed-specific concerns:

• Floppy-eared dogs like Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, and Bloodhounds are prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent wax buildup and bacteria growth.

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus need their facial folds cleaned regularly to prevent skin infections.

• High-shedding breeds such as the Siberian Husky or Akita will require more frequent brushing during shedding seasons to avoid excessive hair buildup and skin irritation.

By understanding these breed-specific requirements, groomers can help prevent health issues and provide more comprehensive care for each dog.

What Dog's have the best Temperament for Grooming?

While grooming techniques vary based on coat type, temperament is equally important. Some breeds are more prone to anxiety during grooming sessions, while others may be easier to handle.

• Energetic breeds like Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers may have trouble sitting still during long grooming sessions. Breaks and treats can help keep them calm and focused.

• Laid-back breeds such as Bulldogs and Basset Hounds tend to be more cooperative but may require encouragement to stand or move during grooming.

Understanding a dog’s temperament allows groomers to adapt their approach, creating a positive and stress-free grooming experience for both the dog and the groomer.

What grooming is needed for All dog breeds?

In addition to coat care, all dogs require some level of basic grooming. Here’s a quick breakdown of essential grooming tasks that apply to all breeds:

• Nail trimming: Regular trims prevent overgrown nails that can cause discomfort or injury.

• Ear cleaning: Floppy-eared breeds, in particular, need frequent ear checks and cleaning to prevent infections.

• Teeth brushing: Good dental hygiene is essential to prevent plaque buildup and bad breath.

• Anal gland expression: Some breeds, especially small dogs, may need professional help with this delicate task to avoid impaction.

A Well-Groomed Dog is a Happy Dog

By understanding the unique grooming needs of different dog breeds, groomers can provide not only aesthetic improvements but also ensure the dog’s overall health and comfort. A well-groomed dog is free of mats, skin irritations, and infections—leading to a happier, healthier pet.

Final Thoughts
Grooming is a blend of art and science, requiring an in-depth understanding of the diverse needs of various breeds. As a professional groomer, your role extends beyond making a dog look good—you contribute to their overall well-being. By mastering breed-specific grooming techniques, you can offer personalized, high-quality services that will set your business apart.

Whether it’s a short-coated Beagle or a curly-coated Poodle, every dog deserves specialized care. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to handle any breed that comes through your grooming salon, ensuring each dog leaves looking and feeling its best.