Spring Grooming Tips for Short-Haired Dogs: Keep Your Pup Fresh, Clean & Feeling Good
Spring is in the air—and while you're breaking out the lighter jackets and planning weekend adventures, your short-haired dog needs a little seasonal care too! Just because they don’t have long, fluffy coats doesn’t mean grooming takes a backseat. In fact, spring is the perfect time to give their routine a little refresh.
Here’s a groomer-approved guide to help your pup stay healthy, happy, and ready to soak up the sunshine:
🧼 1. Don’t Skip the Brush!
Yep—even short-haired dogs shed (a lot, actually!). Brushing once or twice a week helps remove loose fur, dirt, and debris, especially during spring when shedding tends to ramp up. A slicker brush or rubber curry brush works wonders to keep that coat smooth and shiny—and cuts down on the tumbleweeds of fur in your house!
🛁 2. Freshen Up With a Bath
Your pup might not need baths on the regular, but springtime calls for a little extra attention. Think muddy paws, pollen, and more outdoor play. Aim for a bath every 4–6 weeks using a gentle, dog-safe shampoo. And don’t forget to rinse really well—leftover product can cause itchiness and irritation.
✂️ 3. Keep Those Nails Trimmed
All those long walks and backyard zoomies? They might not wear your dog’s nails down enough. Check and trim them every 2–3 weeks to keep your pup comfy on all surfaces—especially pavement and rocky trails. Clicking nails = time for a trim.
👂 4. Check Those Ears
Spring = more outdoor activity, and that means more dirt, pollen, and moisture getting into your dog’s ears. Wipe them weekly with a pet-safe ear cleaner and cotton pad to prevent buildup and infections. If your pup’s shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears, give them a closer look.
🕷️ 5. Flea & Tick Watch
With warmer weather comes… the bugs. Do regular checks after walks, especially if you’re going through grassy areas or wooded trails. Use a flea comb to inspect their coat and stay on top of your vet-recommended flea & tick prevention plan.
💦 6. Hydration + Skin TLC
As the seasons shift, your dog’s skin might get dry or flaky. Keep their water bowl full, and if you notice any dry patches, try a moisturizing spray, leave-in conditioner made for dogs or even multivitamins for shiny, moisturized skin. A healthy coat starts with healthy skin!
🌞 7. Sun Protection Matters
Short hair = more exposed skin. Dogs can get sunburned too—especially on their nose, ears, and belly. Limit sun exposure during peak hours, and consider using a pet-safe sunscreen for those sensitive areas if your dog loves to sunbathe.
🦷 8. Add Dental Care to the Mix
Spring is a great time to clean up your dog’s dental game. Brushing their teeth 2–3 times a week with pet-safe toothpaste helps prevent bad breath and tartar buildup. Bonus: it also helps keep your grooming sessions stink-free.
🐾 9. Book That Vet Check
Seasonal grooming isn’t just about fur—it’s also a reminder to make sure everything else is on track. A spring check-up ensures your dog is up-to-date on vaccines and parasite prevention. Your vet can also give you grooming-specific tips based on your dog’s breed and lifestyle.
📅 10. Stick to a Grooming Routine
Consistency is key! Even short-haired dogs benefit from regular grooming—it's not just about looks, it’s about overall health. Make grooming a relaxing ritual, and your dog will not only look their best but feel their best too.
Final Wags: Spring grooming doesn’t have to be a chore.
With a little weekly TLC, your short-haired pup will be ready for all the springtime adventures—clean, comfy, and loving every second of the sunshine. 🐕🌷
