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

How often you should wash your dog depends on their coat type: Wool/Oodle coats (Poodles, Cavoodles) need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, double-coated breeds (Labradors, Huskies) every 8 weeks, and short-haired breeds (Beagles, Boxers) every 12 weeks. Over-washing (more than once a week) can strip natural oils, cause dry skin, and lead to irritation. Most dogs only need a bath when they’re visibly dirty or smelly.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re washing your dog too often—or not often enough—you’re not alone. The answer isn’t the same for every dog. A Poodle’s grooming needs are vastly different from a Labrador’s, and washing frequency can impact your dog’s skin health, coat condition, and overall comfort.

This guide covers how often to wash your dog by coat type and why over-washing is harmful.

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 Australian Veterinary Association, 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
• 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 may benefit from weekly baths—ask your vet

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

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.