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How to Groom Medium-Haired Dogs

How to Groom Medium-Haired Dogs

Medium-haired dogs have coats that require more attention than short-haired breeds but are not as labor-intensive as long-haired varieties. These breeds often need regular brushing, occasional trimming, and proper coat maintenance to prevent matting and shedding.

Common Medium-Haired Dog Breeds

  • Golden Retriever
  • Australian Shepherd
  • Border Collie
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Shih Tzu
  • English Springer Spaniel
  • Brittany Spaniel
  • Keeshond
  • Samoyed
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • Shetland Sheepdog
  • Basset Hound
  • American Eskimo Dog
  • Finnish Spitz
  • Alaskan Klee Kai
  • Pekingese
  • Welsh Corgi
  • Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
  • Havanese
  • Scottish Terrier
  • Bearded Collie

Grooming Tips for Medium-Haired Breeds

Brushing

Regular brushing is essential for medium-haired dogs to prevent tangling and matting. Use a slicker brush or pin brush, depending on your dog's coat type, and brush at least 2–3 times a week. During shedding seasons, daily brushing may be required.

Bathing

Medium-haired dogs benefit from bathing every 4–8 weeks. Use a mild dog shampoo, and rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving residue that could lead to skin irritation. Be sure to dry their coat completely, especially in denser areas where moisture can get trapped.

Nail Trimming

Keep your dog's nails trimmed to a comfortable length. Medium-haired breeds may have fur covering their paws, so be sure to move the fur aside to check the length of the nails.

Trimming and Coat Maintenance

Medium-haired dogs with feathering or longer fur around the ears, legs, or tail may need occasional trimming to keep their coat neat. This helps reduce tangles and ensures the fur doesn't collect debris.

Ear Cleaning

Dogs with medium-length fur can still be prone to ear infections, especially if their ears are floppy or have feathering around them. Clean their ears regularly with a vet-recommended solution and check for any signs of infection or buildup.

Teeth Cleaning

Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing using dog-safe toothpaste. This will help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, ensuring their teeth and gums stay healthy.

Check for Mats and Tangles

Medium-haired breeds are more prone to matting than short-haired breeds, especially in areas like the armpits, behind the ears, and under the collar. Regularly check these areas and use a detangling spray or mat splitter if necessary.

Seasonal Shedding

Many medium-haired dogs experience seasonal shedding, especially breeds like Golden Retrievers and Australian Shepherds. During this time, increase brushing frequency to help manage loose fur and prevent matting.

Additional Grooming Tips

Flea and Tick Prevention

Medium-haired coats provide more hiding places for fleas and ticks. Regularly check your dog's coat, especially after walks in wooded areas, and keep up with flea and tick preventatives.

Coat-Specific Products

For dogs with sensitive skin or those prone to shedding, invest in high-quality grooming products designed for medium-haired breeds. Products like de-shedding shampoos or sprays can help maintain a healthy coat.


Regular grooming for medium-haired dogs keeps their coat looking shiny and helps prevent skin irritation, matting, and excessive shedding. Whether you need a full-service grooming package or prefer a self-wash station, Suds N Pups Dog Grooming and Wash, Inc. in San Diego offers all the services you need to keep your medium-haired dog looking and feeling great.