How Often Should You Wash Your Dog? A 2026 Guide by Coat Type

How often you should wash your dog depends on coat type, dirt and skin health, not one calendar rule. Oodle coats often sit on a 4–6 week salon rhythm; many double coats stretch to 8–12 weeks between full washes if you brush at home.

Wondering if you’re washing too often or not enough? A Poodle’s needs differ wildly from a Labrador’s, and over-washing can dry out skin.

Washing frequency by coat type

The RSPCA Australia recommends changing your dog’s grooming schedule based on their coat type and activity level. Here’s a breakdown:

Why Wool/Oodle coats need more grooming

Wool and Oodle coats (Poodles, Cavoodles, Spoodles) are non-shedding but require the most care. Here’s why:

• Hair grows all the time – Like human hair, it doesn’t fall out naturally and must be clipped
• Prone to matting – Without regular brushing and clipping, the coat becomes matted quickly
• Skin health – Matted hair traps moisture and bacteria, leading to infections
• Professional clipping – These breeds need a full body clip every 4–6 weeks

Between professional grooms, you should brush your Oodle every 2–3 days to prevent matting.

Double-coated breeds: Less is more

Double-coated breeds (Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Huskies) have a dense undercoat that protects them from heat and cold. Over-washing can damage this natural protection.

Why washing less often is better:

• Natural oils – The undercoat produces oils that keep off water and dirt
• Self-cleaning – These breeds are naturally “self-cleaning” and rarely need baths unless dirty
• Seasonal shedding – Professional de-shedding treatments are better than frequent baths
• Skin sensitivity – Over-washing strips oils and can cause dry, flaky skin

According to the RSPCA Australia, double-coated breeds usually only need professional grooming every 8–12 weeks.

The dangers of over-washing

Washing your dog too often (more than once a week for most breeds) can cause:

• Dry, flaky skin – Shampoo strips natural oils that keep the skin moisturised
• Itching and irritation – Without protective oils, the skin becomes sensitive and prone to rashes (see dog itching after grooming)
• Increased shedding – Over-washing can trigger extra shedding in double-coated breeds
• Skin infections – Dry skin is more likely to get bacterial and fungal infections
• Cost – Unnecessary professional grooms waste money and time

Signs you’re over-washing:

• Your dog’s skin looks dry or flaky
• They’re scratching more than usual
• The coat looks dull
• You’re washing more than once every two weeks

When to wash more often

Some situations require more frequent washing:

• Skin conditions – If your vet prescribes medicated shampoo, follow their schedule
• Swimming – Dogs who swim in pools or saltwater should be rinsed after
• Rolling in something – If your dog rolls in something smelly or toxic, wash immediately
• Flea treatment – Some flea shampoos require weekly application
• Allergies – Dogs with allergies can benefit from weekly baths, but ask your vet first

Creating a grooming schedule

Step 1: Identify your dog’s coat type (refer to the table above)

Step 2: Book your first professional groom based on the recommended frequency (see how long between dog grooms)

Step 3: Mark your calendar for the next appointment

Step 4: Brush regularly between grooms (daily for long coats, 2–3 times per week for medium coats, weekly for short coats)

Step 5: Only give home baths when your dog is visibly dirty or smelly

To find a dog groomer near you who can help you establish a healthy grooming schedule for your dog’s specific coat type, browse our verified directory.

Frequently Asked Questions