How to Tell When Your Dog Is Overdue for a Groom
Every dog needs regular grooming, but not every dog owner knows exactly when it is time to book that next appointment. Some breeds need grooming every four to six weeks, while others can stretch a bit longer. Regardless of breed, there are clear physical signs that tell you your dog is ready for professional attention.
Here are the top five signs that your dog needs grooming — and what to do about each one.
1. Their Coat Is Matted or Tangled
Mats are more than just an eyesore. They pull on your dog’s skin, trap moisture, and can lead to painful skin irritation or even infection. If you are running your fingers through your dog’s fur and hitting knots or clumps, it is time for a professional grooming session.
Breeds with longer or curly coats — like poodles, doodles, shih tzus, and Yorkshire terriers — are especially prone to matting. Regular brushing at home helps, but it is no substitute for a thorough full grooming session where a professional can safely remove mats and restore your dog’s coat.
Pro tip: If mats are severe, do not try to cut them out yourself. You risk cutting your dog’s skin. A professional groomer has the right tools and training to handle matting safely.
2. Their Nails Are Clicking on the Floor
If you can hear your dog’s nails tapping on hardwood or tile floors, those nails are too long. Overgrown nails affect your dog’s gait and posture, which can lead to joint pain over time. In extreme cases, long nails can curl and grow into the paw pad, causing significant pain.
Dogs who spend most of their time indoors or on soft surfaces — which is common here in Lubbock where summer heat keeps many pets inside — do not wear down their nails naturally the way outdoor dogs on pavement might. Regular nail trimming should be part of every grooming appointment.
Our a la carte services include nail trimming if your dog just needs a quick maintenance visit between full grooms.
3. They Have a Noticeable Odor
A healthy dog should not have a strong or unpleasant smell. If your dog is starting to stink even after their last bath, it could mean their coat is trapping oils, dirt, or bacteria. It can also signal an ear infection, dental issue, or skin condition that needs attention.
A professional brush and bath does more than just clean the surface — it involves thorough shampooing, rinsing, and drying that reaches down to the skin. Groomers also check ears during the process, which can help catch infections early.
If your dog had an unfortunate encounter with a skunk — not uncommon in the Lubbock area — we also offer a specialized de-skunk treatment that neutralizes the odor completely.
4. They Are Scratching More Than Usual
Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing at their skin is a sign something is off. It could be dry skin, allergies, fleas, or irritation from a dirty or matted coat. Regular grooming keeps your dog’s skin clean and healthy, removes loose undercoat that traps heat and irritants, and gives the groomer a chance to spot any skin issues before they become serious.
In Lubbock, dust, pollen, and dry West Texas air can aggravate skin conditions. A grooming routine that includes proper shampooing and conditioning helps protect your dog’s skin barrier and keeps them comfortable through every season.
5. Their Eyes Are Obscured by Hair
When your dog’s hair is growing over their eyes, it is not just a cosmetic issue — it affects their vision and can cause eye irritation. Breeds like Lhasa Apsos, Old English Sheepdogs, and many terrier mixes need regular face trims to see clearly and avoid tear staining.
Even short-haired breeds can develop overgrown hair around their eyes, ears, and paws that needs trimming. A professional groomer knows exactly how to handle face and sanitary trims safely and efficiently.
How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?
As a general rule:
- Long-haired breeds (poodles, doodles, shih tzus): Every 4-6 weeks
- Medium-haired breeds (spaniels, retrievers): Every 6-8 weeks
- Short-haired breeds (labs, beagles, boxers): Every 8-12 weeks
These are guidelines — your dog’s individual coat, activity level, and skin condition all factor in. If you are not sure, your groomer can recommend a schedule that works for your pet.
Make Grooming Easy with Dashing Dogs Mobile Dog Grooming
Spotting any of these signs? Do not wait — the longer you put off grooming, the more uncomfortable your dog becomes. Dashing Dogs Mobile Dog Grooming brings professional grooming right to your door in Lubbock, so there is no excuse to delay.
Call (806) 999-1912 or book online to schedule your dog’s next grooming appointment. We will have them looking and feeling their best in no time.