Double-coated breeds (e.g. Labradors, Huskies, German Shepherds)
Double coats have a soft undercoat and a coarser topcoat, and they shed seasonally rather than needing scissor work. Brushing two to three times a week at home helps keep loose undercoat under control, and most owners book a full groom (bath, blow-dry and de-shed) every six to eight weeks, more often through the heavy spring and autumn sheds.
Never shave a double coat down to the skin "to keep them cool". The coat actually helps regulate temperature, and it can grow back unevenly. If you're unsure what's right for your dog's coat or skin, a groomer or your vet can advise.
Curly and oodle coats (e.g. Poodles, Cavoodles, Labradoodles)
Curly and wool-type coats don't shed the way straight coats do. Instead, loose hair gets trapped in the curl, and without regular brushing that turns into matting close to the skin surprisingly fast. Most curly-coated dogs need brushing every couple of days at home and a full professional groom every four to six weeks to stay comfortable and mat-free.
Tight mats are more than a coat problem. They can pull on skin and make brushing distressing for the dog, so staying on top of the schedule tends to be kinder (and cheaper) than catching up on a badly matted coat later.
Short, smooth coats (e.g. Staffies, Beagles, Boxers)
Short coats are the lowest-maintenance of the three: a weekly brush with a rubber curry or grooming mitt lifts loose hair and keeps the coat glossy. A full groom (bath, nail trim, ear check) every eight to twelve weeks is plenty for most short-coated dogs, though dogs that swim or get muddy regularly might need baths more often.
What a "full groom" usually covers
Regardless of coat type, a full groom typically includes a bath with dog-safe shampoo, brush-out or de-shed, nail trim, ear clean and a coat trim or shape where relevant. Between full grooms, home brushing is what actually keeps the coat manageable. A groomer's work goes a lot further on a dog that's been brushed regularly than one that hasn't been touched in weeks.
If you'd rather not manage transport, plenty of owners book mobile grooming instead. The groomer comes to you in a fitted-out van or trailer, which can suit older dogs, multi-dog households, or anyone who finds car trips stressful for their dog. If you run a grooming business yourself, see how Pet Pro's works for dog groomers.
Signs it's time for a groom, whatever the schedule
Schedules are a starting point, not a rule. Watch the dog instead of the calendar. A strong "doggy" smell, a coat that's starting to felt or mat, overgrown nails clicking on hard floors, or hair falling into the eyes are all signs it's time, regardless of when the last groom was. Anything that looks like skin irritation, hot spots or unusual hair loss is worth a vet visit rather than a grooming appointment. A groomer can flag it, but diagnosing and treating skin conditions is a job for your vet.