The dog’s coat is more than a question of appearance. It tells you about the dog’s health, protects it from the weather, and affects how much maintenance everyday life requires. Coats of different breeds vary greatly, and identifying the right coat type is the first step toward a functioning grooming routine.
In this guide, we go through the most common coat types, how they behave according to the season, and what each one needs in daily care.
The coat is a measure of a dog’s well-being
A well-groomed dog’s coat is shiny, supple, and intact. It indicates not only that coat care is in order, but also that nutrition, fluids, and overall health are in balance. A matted, dry, or thinning coat is usually a sign of something more extensive.
The coat varies by breed. Northern breeds have a dense undercoat in winter that thins in summer. Short-haired breeds keep their coat fairly unchanged throughout the year. Two dogs of the same breed can still differ because of genes and age, so general guidelines are a starting point, not absolutes.
The most common coat types
Most dogs fall into one of the following four types. Care varies according to each one.
Short coat. Labrador, beagle, pug, French bulldog. The coat is dense and smooth. Care is simple; brushing once a week with a rubber glove or soft brush is enough. During shedding season, more intensive brushing keeps the mess under control.
Double coat. German shepherd, sheltie, husky, most northern breeds. The coat has a coarse outer coat and a soft undercoat. Shedding is heavy twice a year. The core of care is a metal comb and regular removal of the undercoat, especially in spring and autumn.
Long and straight. Shih Tzu, Yorkshire terrier, Afghan hound, Maltese. Long hairs tangle easily. Daily brushing with a long-pinned brush is essential, and regular washing and, when necessary, trimming keep the coat neat.
Curly and wavy. Poodle, bichon frisé, lagotto romagnolo, Portuguese water dog. The coat does not shed in the same way as others, which makes it more hypoallergenic, but it often requires professional trimming. Regular brushing with a slicker brush prevents tangles from forming.
Coarse coat is a fifth, more specialized type. Schnauzers, terriers, and a few other breeds. The coat requires stripping, not clipping, meaning removing the hair with a special knife or by hand. This keeps the color and texture correct.
Care of a long-haired dog
A long-haired coat needs daily attention most of the time. Brush every day or every other day with a long-pinned brush, preferably before washing so that tangles do not tighten under the influence of water.
Washing once a month or as needed is enough for most. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner designed for dogs, such as NoCat Studion products that are made in Finland with gentle care.
Visits to a groomer every 6–8 weeks keep the shape. This applies especially to breeds whose coat grows endlessly, such as shih tzus and Yorkshire terriers.
Care of a curly-coated dog
A curly coat looks low-maintenance, but in reality it is one of the most demanding types. Tangles form quickly and out of sight, so brushing with a slicker brush a few times a week is essential.
Trimming is needed every 4–6 weeks. A curly coat is sensitive to temperature extremes; in winter the dog may need clothing, and in summer shade and cooling.
After washing, drying is critical. A wet curly coat tangles quickly, so blotting and careful blow-drying help prevent problems.
Care of a soft-coated dog
Bichon frisé, Maltese, and a few other breeds are recognized by their silky, fine coat that feels like cotton wool. This coat tangles easily and requires gentle handling.
Light daily brushing is the best approach. Use a long-pinned brush and avoid pulling movements; a soft coat breaks easily with rough handling.
Washing with a shampoo specifically intended for soft coats and a good conditioner preserves shine. A visit to the groomer every 6 weeks keeps the shape.
Care of a short-haired dog
Care of a short-haired dog is practically the easiest. Brushing once a week with a rubber glove or noppaus removes loose hair and stimulates blood circulation in the skin.
Wash as needed; for most, once every 1–2 months is enough. A short coat dries quickly with a towel and usually does not need a hair dryer.
During shedding season, brushing becomes daily. In the case of northern breeds, a special undercoat brush such as the Furminator helps remove loose undercoat more effectively.
The right grooming products by coat type
When choosing a grooming product, it is worth considering the coat type and the dog’s skin. General principles:
Shampoo. Choose a paraben-free and sulfate-free option designed for dogs. For long-haired dogs, a moisturizing formula; for curly-coated dogs, moisture + detangling. The Muotitassun shampoo selection includes several high-quality options.
Conditioner or grooming spray. Use after washing or between washes; it makes brushing easier and adds shine. NoCat Studion Refresh Detangle works especially well for long-haired and curly-coated dogs.
Brush or comb. Slicker brush for curly-coated dogs, long-pinned brush for long-haired dogs, metal comb for double coats, rubber glove for short-haired dogs. Muotitassun grooming tools include all the favorites of professionals.
When the coat signals concern
Regular inspection of the coat reveals changes before they grow into problems. Redness, dandruff, itching, localized hair loss, or an intolerable odor are signs that warrant consultation with a veterinarian.
During washing and brushing, it is a good time to check the skin; ticks, fleas, scratches, and lumps are noticed then. Regular care is therefore medically significant, not just aesthetically important.
Summary
Identify your dog’s coat type, and the rest of the grooming routine will follow accordingly. Short hair is the easiest; curly and long coats require the most attention. Regular brushing, the right products, and visual inspection keep your dog’s coat both healthy-looking and healthy.
Also read Master the basics of dog coat care and view Muotitassun coat care products.
