The Complete Guide to Dog Grooming in Baltimore
Everything Local Pet Parents Need to Know for a Happy, Healthy Pup
If you’re a dog owner in Baltimore, grooming isn’t just about keeping your pup looking sharp—it’s essential for their health, comfort, and happiness. Whether you’re new to the area, a first-time dog parent, or looking to upgrade your routine, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about dog grooming in Charm City.
🧼 Why Grooming Matters (More Than You Think)
Regular grooming can:
Prevent skin issues, infections, and painful matting
Keep nails trimmed and joints aligned
Reduce shedding and dander in your home
Catch early signs of health issues (lumps, fleas, ear infections)
Make your dog feel comfortable and confident
It’s about more than a clean coat—it’s a form of preventative care.
📍 Baltimore’s Unique Grooming Needs
Baltimore's mix of seasons, humidity, and city living means your dog’s grooming needs may shift throughout the year. For example:
Spring/Summer: More shedding, ticks, pollen, and dirt from parks
Fall: Matting risk increases with damp leaves and rain
Winter: Salted sidewalks can dry and crack paw pads—paw balm and foot soaks help!
If you live in a rowhouse or have limited yard space, your dog may spend more time at the park or on sidewalks—meaning more dirt and city grime builds up faster than in suburban areas.
✂️ What Does a Full Grooming Session Include?
At most Baltimore salons, a full-service grooming package includes:
Bath and Blow Dry (with dog-safe shampoos)
Haircut or Breed-Specific Trim
Brushing and De-shedding
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming or Grinding
Paw Pad and Sanitary Area Trim
Anal Gland Expression (if needed)
Ask your groomer what’s included—every salon is a bit different.
🐶 How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?
Here’s a general guide based on Coat Type & Grooming Frequency:
Short Hair (Pug) Every 6–8 weeks
Medium Coat (Beagle) Every 4–6 weeks
Long Hair (Golden) Every 4–6 weeks
Curly/Wavy (Poodle) Every 4–6 weeks
Double Coat (Husky) Monthly + deshedding
Hairless/Bald Regular baths, skincare
Bonus tip: Regular brushing at home (especially between salon visits) helps cut down on tangles, mats, and shedding.
🏙️ Choosing the Right Groomer in Baltimore
Here’s what to look for:
Clean, calm environment
Transparent pricing
Experienced groomers who know how to handle different coat types and temperaments
Reviews and testimonials from local pet parents
Services that match your dog’s needs—whether it’s a quick nail trim or a full spa day
Happy Dog Baltimore offers professional, compassionate grooming tailored to city dogs—and we love working with pups of all sizes and breeds.
📆 When to Book (And Why Sooner Is Better)
Appointments fill quickly, especially around:
Holidays
Spring & Summer shedding season
Pro tip: Book your dog’s next appointment before you leave the salon—just like with haircuts, staying on schedule keeps things easy and affordable.