They may be tiny, but small dogs often have BIG grooming needs. And let’s be real – your Yorkie or Maltese knows they’re a little diva. They expect to look (and smell) fabulous at all times.
Whether you’ve got a Shih Tzu with a glam blowout or a Chihuahua who hates water, this guide will help you tackle small dog grooming like a total pro – or at least fake it until your next PawBasic appointment 😉
🐶 Small Dogs, Big Grooming Checklist
No matter the breed, these basics apply:
- ✅ Regular brushing (at least 3x/week for long-haired breeds)
- ✅ Baths every 3–4 weeks
- ✅ Nail trims every 3–6 weeks
- ✅ Eye and face cleaning (for tear-prone pups like Shih Tzus)
- ✅ Ear cleaning (especially floppy-eared cuties)
And don’t forget the bum trims – you know the ones.
✂️ Coat-Specific Grooming Tips
🧁 Yorkies, Maltese, Shih Tzus (Silky or Long Coats)
- Use a metal comb + slicker brush daily
- Wipe eyes gently with tear-stain wipes
- Keep hair trimmed around eyes and potty areas
🦊 Pomeranians, Mini Aussies, Long-Haired Dachshunds
- Use deshedding tools during seasonal shedding
- Dry completely after baths to avoid skin irritation
🌮 Chihuahuas, Frenchies, and Smooth-Coats
- Bathe every 4–6 weeks (unless they roll in something)
- Use a gentle rubber grooming mitt to remove dead hair
🙋♀️ Common Small Dog Grooming Mistakes
- ❌ Skipping grooms because “they’re small”
- ❌ Letting mats build up under harnesses or collars
- ❌ Forgetting the nail trims until you hear tap-dancing on hardwood floors
Why PawBasic Is a Small Dog’s Dream Spa
Located in Cooksville, Mississauga, we pamper small pups with:
- 💆♀️ One-on-one attention
- 🧴 Hypoallergenic shampoos for sensitive skin
- ✂️ Hand-scissored finishes for fussy cuts
- 🐾 Calm, quiet grooming rooms (no chaos)
Our groomers specialize in small dog grooming, and it shows – just check our 4.9-star Google reviews.
➡️ See why Mississauga dog moms love us
Want Your Tiny Pup to Look Extra Fancy?
We’ve got the scissors, the patience, and the peanut butter treats to make it happen.