To determine which dogs need to be trimmed, you can divide dog coats into two categories: those with a fixed coat length and those with an indeterminate coat length.
1. Dogs with a fixed coat length
Fixed coat length breeds and mixes have coats that are genetically determined to grow to a certain length and then stop.
Many dog breeds fall into this category, such as Beagles, Huskies, Corgis, Dachshunds, Labrador Retrievers and many others.
Even if the coat is longer or shorter on different parts of the body, as in a Golden Retriever or a Spaniel, this fixed length still applies.
These dogs usually require little trimming, depending on their breed standard and the condition of their coat.
It is often sufficient to trim hygienic areas and the soles of the feet with clippers.
2. Dogs with indeterminate coat length
Breeds and mixes with indeterminate coat length have coats that continue to grow and thus require regular trimming.
Dogs with this type of coat are often “single-layered,” meaning they have little or no undercoat.
Trimming these breeds can range from full clipping and sculpting (as in Poodles) to maintaining a falling coat (as in a Maltese or Shih Tzu in a show trim).
Dogs with indeterminate coat length require regular grooming and trimming.
Although the coat length is indeterminate, the type and texture of the coat can vary greatly, such as the coarse, curly coat of a Poodle compared to the silky, straight hair of a Maltese.
In addition to hygienic trimming and touching up the soles of the feet, many dogs with indeterminate coat lengths are often kept in a “puppy cut.”
This involves cutting the length of the body with an attachment comb to a short to medium length, usually between 10-25 mm, and trimming the head and face to match the style of the body.
