Different Dog Coat Types: Grooming Tips for Every Breed

Every dog’s coat is unique, and understanding your dog’s specific coat type is one of the most important steps in maintaining their health, comfort, and appearance. Coat type doesn’t just affect how your dog looks—it determines how often they should be groomed, what tools to use, and which products will keep their skin and coat in the best condition.

In this guide, I’ll break down the most common dog coat types, highlight breed examples, and share professional grooming tips for each.

Short Coat (Smooth Coat)

Examples: Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Beagles, Dobermans, Chihuahuas

Short-coated dogs have hair that lies close to the body and typically sheds year-round.

Grooming Needs:

• Brushing 1–2 times per week with a rubber brush (Curry comb) or bristle brush

• Regular bathing with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo

• Occasional use of a light conditioner to maintain skin hydration

Professional Tip:
Even though the coat is short, these dogs can still experience dry skin. Focus on skin health just as much as coat maintenance.

Double Coat

Examples: Golden Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds

Double-coated breeds have two layers:

• A dense, insulating undercoat

• A longer, protective topcoat

They shed seasonally (often called “blowing coat”).

Grooming Needs:

• Brushing 2–4 times per week (daily during heavy shedding seasons)

• Use of an undercoat rake and slicker brush

• Bathing with deshedding or coat-release shampoos

• Thorough drying to prevent trapped moisture

Professional Tip:
Never shave a double-coated dog unless medically necessary. Their coat regulates temperature and protects their skin. This means their coat regulates their temperature in the winter AND in the summer. Do not shave them just because you think “they are hot”.. in this case a great de-shed is recommended.

Long Coat

Examples: Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Afghan Hounds

Long-coated dogs have continuously growing hair that is prone to tangling and matting.

Grooming Needs:

• Daily brushing with a slicker brush and comb

• Regular use of conditioning and detangling products

• Frequent trims to maintain manageability

• Bathing every 2–4 weeks with moisturizing shampoo and conditioner

Professional Tip:
Matting can become painful and lead to skin issues. Consistent maintenance is key—waiting too long between grooms often results in the need for a full shave-down. Always pay attention to their “high friction” areas while combing (armpits, tails, ears, muzzle, rear end).

Curly or Wavy Coat

Examples: Poodles, Doodles (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles), Bichon Frise

Curly coats tend to trap shed hair, making them lower-shedding but highly prone to matting.

Grooming Needs:

• Brushing 3–5 times per week (daily is ideal), followed up with a total comb through.

• Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks

• Moisturizing shampoos and rich conditioners

• Regular trims to maintain coat shape and health

Professional Tip:
Always brush down to the skin—not just the surface—to prevent hidden mats close to the skin. Always pay attention to their “high friction” areas while combing (armpits, tails, ears, muzzle, rear end).

Wire Coat (Rough Coat)

Examples: Terriers (such as Schnauzers, Airedales, Wire Fox Terriers)

Wire-coated dogs have coarse, bristly hair with a softer undercoat.

Grooming Needs:

• Weekly brushing

• Hand-stripping or clipping, depending on coat maintenance preference

• Occasional bathing (overbathing can soften the coat texture)

Professional Tip:
Hand-stripping maintains the natural texture and color of the coat, while clipping can change its appearance over time. Groomers that hand strip are rare. Hand stripping, also called carding, is in the long run best for coat but more time consuming and pricier.

Hairless Breeds

Examples: Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli

Hairless dogs require specialized skin care rather than coat care.

Grooming Needs:

• Regular bathing to remove oil buildup

• Moisturizing lotions or conditioners designed for dogs

• Sun protection when outdoors

• Monitoring for skin irritation or acne

Professional Tip:
Even without fur, these dogs still require consistent grooming to maintain healthy skin. They are prone to acne like breakouts.

Combination Coats

Examples: Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies

Some breeds have a mix of coat types—for example, shorter hair on the body with longer feathering on the ears, legs, and tail.

Grooming Needs:

• Brushing several times per week

• Extra attention to feathered areas prone to tangling

• Regular trims to keep coat balanced and manageable

• Conditioning products to maintain softness

Professional Tip:
Focus on high-friction areas like behind the ears and under the legs, where mats form most quickly.

Final Thoughts

No matter the breed, proper grooming starts with understanding your dog’s coat type. The right tools, techniques, and products make all the difference in preventing discomfort, reducing shedding, and keeping your dog looking and feeling their best.

Regular grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s an essential part of your dog’s overall health and well-being.

If you’re unsure how to care for your dog’s specific coat, a professional groomer can help create a customized plan tailored to your dog’s needs.