Savanna Davis

May is that sweet spot where spring starts to fade, temperatures rise, and summer is just around the corner. For dog parents, it’s the perfect time to reset your pup’s grooming routine and get ahead of shedding, heat, and seasonal mess.

If your dog is already shedding more, feeling a little extra “lived in,” or just ready for warmer weather, this is your sign to get them summer-ready.

Here’s your ultimate May grooming checklist to keep your pup clean, comfortable, and ready for all the sunny adventures ahead.

Why May Grooming Matters

As the weather warms up, dogs naturally start shedding their winter coats. At the same time, increased outdoor activity means more dirt, allergens, and odor buildup.

A proper May grooming reset helps reduce heavy seasonal shedding, prevent matting before summer coats fully come in, keep skin healthy in warmer weather, control odor from increased outdoor play, and improve overall comfort as temperatures rise. Think of it as prep work for an easier, cleaner summer.

The Ultimate May Grooming Checklist

Start with a full deshedding session. If your dog is leaving fur everywhere right now, you’re not alone. Spring shedding peaks in late spring, making May the ideal time for a thorough deshed. Removing loose undercoat helps your dog stay cooler and keeps your home cleaner. It also helps prevent excessive shedding in summer, mats forming under thick coats, and skin irritation from trapped fur. If brushing at home isn’t cutting it, a professional deshedding treatment can make a big difference.

Trim and tidy without overdoing it. A summer-ready trim isn’t about shaving—it’s about comfort and maintenance. Light trimming around paw pads, sanitary areas, and feathering or excess bulk for long-haired breeds helps improve airflow and keeps your dog cooler without affecting coat health.

Don’t forget nail care. Warmer weather means more outdoor activity like parks, sidewalks, and longer walks. Overgrown nails can lead to discomfort or injury, so regular trims are essential. If you hear clicking on the floor, it’s time. Well-maintained nails support better posture, less joint strain, and safer movement outdoors.

Clean ears and check for seasonal buildup. Spring allergies don’t just affect people—dogs feel them too. Regular ear cleaning helps prevent wax buildup, irritation, and odor or infection risk. If your dog has been scratching more than usual, a quick ear check is a must.

Refresh the in-between routine. Even after a full grooming session, May is when maintenance matters most. Regular brushing, paw wipes after outdoor play, light deodorizing sprays, and dry shampoo for busy days all help keep your dog fresh between visits. Small habits go a long way.

Check flea and tick protection. As temperatures rise, so does pest activity. May is the perfect time to make sure your dog’s flea and tick prevention is up to date. Always check skin after outdoor play, monitor bedding areas, and stay consistent with preventatives.

Bonus: Don’t Skip Hydration and Comfort

Grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s about comfort. As summer approaches, keep fresh water available at all times, avoid midday walks on hot pavement, and watch for signs of overheating during play. A well-groomed dog handles heat much better.

Make Summer Prep Easy with Professional Grooming

If this checklist feels like a lot, that’s exactly why professional grooming or full-service bath options exist. A quick visit can combine deshedding treatment, deep cleansing bath, nail trim, coat refresh, and ear cleaning into one easy reset. It’s the fastest way to get summer-ready without the mess at home.

The petbar Way to Start Summer Right

At petbar, everything is designed to make grooming simple, fast, and stress-free. Whether you’re doing a self-wash or treating your pup to a full refresh, you get access to premium products, no cleanup, and a better grooming experience from start to finish. Getting summer-ready shouldn’t feel like a chore—it should feel like a fresh start.

We get it—life is busy. Between work, errands, and everything else on your plate, your dog’s next bath can sneak up on you fast. But a fresh, clean pup doesn’t have to mean a full bath every time.

With a few simple habits (and a little help when you need it), you can keep your dog looking, feeling, and smelling their best in between visits.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

Keeping up with your dog’s coat between baths isn’t just about keeping them cute (although that’s a big bonus). It helps:

• Cut down on shedding around your home
• Prevent tangles and matting
• Keep skin healthy and itch-free
• Reduce that “dog smell” before it starts

And when it is time for a bath? Everything is faster, easier, and way more effective.

7 Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Fresh Between Baths

1. Brush It Out

If you do one thing—make it this.

Regular brushing removes dirt, loose fur, and buildup before it becomes a bigger problem. It also helps distribute natural oils for that soft, shiny coat we all love.

Quick guide:

• Short coats: 1–2x per week
• Long or thick coats: 3–5x per week

2. Wipe Down After Adventures

From backyard zoomies to park days, your dog brings a little bit of the outside world home with them.

Pet-safe wipes are perfect for:

• Muddy paws
• Post-meal faces
• Underbellies after walks

It takes less than a minute—and makes a huge difference.

3. Use a Dry Shampoo for a Quick Refresh

No time for a full bath? No problem.

A waterless shampoo helps freshen your dog’s coat, reduce odor, and buy you a little more time between washes.

Think of it as your “in-between” solution when life gets hectic.

4. Don’t Forget the Paws

Paws are the #1 culprit when it comes to dirt, allergens, and mystery smells.

A quick rinse or wipe after walks helps:

• Keep your floors cleaner
• Reduce licking and irritation
• Cut down on odors

5. Check Ears + Eyes Weekly

Small details, big impact.

Keeping these areas clean helps your dog look (and feel) instantly fresher:

• Gently wipe around the eyes to prevent buildup
• Check ears for dirt or odor
• Stay consistent to avoid bigger issues later

6. Light Spritz, Big Difference

A dog-safe deodorizing spray can go a long way in keeping your pup smelling clean between baths.

Pro tip: A quick spritz on their coat or bedding = instant refresh.

7. When in Doubt… Make It Easy on Yourself

Sometimes, the best time-saver is not doing it all at home.

That’s where a quick, no-mess solution comes in. Whether you need a fast refresh or a deeper clean, having an easy option to pop in, wash your pup, and get on with your day can be a total game-changer.

So… How Long Can You Go Between Baths?

Every dog is a little different, but a good rule of thumb:

• Most dogs: every 3-4 weeks
• Active pups: more often
• Sensitive skin: less, with the right products

Keeping up with these in-between habits helps stretch that timeline without sacrificing cleanliness.

Make It Even Easier with a petbar Membership

If you’re a busy dog parent, a petbar membership is the easiest way to stay ahead of grooming without the stress of last-minute baths or messy cleanups at home.

With a membership, you get consistent access to professional-quality bathing options that make it simple to keep your pup clean all month long. It’s perfect for dogs who need regular upkeep, heavy shedders, or pups who just love getting dirty.

Members enjoy benefits like convenient, routine visits, access to premium shampoos and spa-quality products, and a cleaner dog without the hassle of doing it all yourself. It also helps you stay on a schedule, so you’re never scrambling when your pup starts to get a little too “lived in.”

You don’t need hours to keep your dog clean—you just need the right routine.

A little brushing here, a quick wipe there, and the occasional refresh can keep your pup feeling their best between baths.

And when you’re ready for the real deal? We’ve got you.

Spring is the season of fresh starts—and that includes your dog’s routine. As shedding ramps up, allergies flare, and outdoor adventures get messier, a basic bath might not be enough to keep your pup feeling (and smelling) their best.

That’s where grooming and bathing add-ons come in. These small upgrades can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort, coat health, and overall cleanliness.

Why Add-Ons Matter in Spring

Seasonal changes bring new challenges for your dog’s skin and coat. Between pollen, mud, and excess shedding, spring can take a toll.

Adding targeted treatments to your dog’s routine helps:

• Reduce shedding and loose fur
• Soothe dry or itchy skin
• Keep coats cleaner for longer
• Improve overall hygiene

Think of it as upgrading from a quick rinse to a full spa experience.

Must-Have Spring Add-Ons

De-Shedding Treatment

If you’re noticing fur everywhere, this is your go-to. A de-shedding treatment helps remove loose undercoat that regular brushing can miss.

Benefits:

• Reduces shedding at home
• Prevents matting
• Keeps your dog’s coat lighter and healthier

Perfect for heavy shedders or any pup going through seasonal coat blow.

Deodorizing Treatment

Spring adventures can leave your dog smelling less than fresh. A deodorizing upgrade goes beyond a standard shampoo to neutralize odors at the source.

Benefits:

• Long-lasting freshness
• Removes dirt and odor buildup
• Great for active, outdoor-loving pups

Oatmeal Shampoo Upgrade

If your dog struggles with dry or itchy skin—especially during allergy season—this is a must.

Benefits:

• Soothes irritation and itching
• Hydrates and nourishes the skin
• Gentle for sensitive pups

Nail Buff

A nail trim is essential, but a buff takes it one step further by smoothing rough edges.

Benefits:

• Prevents scratches on floors and skin
• Leaves nails smooth and rounded
• Extends time between trims

Teeth Brushing

Dental care is often overlooked, but it’s a key part of your dog’s overall health.

Benefits:

• Freshens breath
• Reduces plaque buildup
• Supports long-term dental health

Save with Spa Packages

Want the full experience? Spa packages combine popular add-ons into one convenient upgrade.

Spa Essentials
Includes Nail Buff, Oatmeal Shampoo, and Blueberry Facial—perfect for maintaining skin and coat health.

Spa Deluxe
Everything in Essentials, plus a De-Shed or Deodorize upgrade for a deeper clean and seasonal support.

It’s an easy way to give your dog more care while getting the most value out of their visit.

Make It Part of Your Routine

The key to seeing real results isn’t just one great grooming or bathing visit—it’s consistency.

Adding these treatments regularly can:

• Keep shedding under control
• Maintain healthier skin and coat
• Reduce buildup between visits

A routine grooming and bathing schedule makes every visit more effective (and keeps your home a little less furry).

Upgrade Every Visit with petbar

At petbar, we believe every visit should be simple, effective, and tailored to your dog’s needs. Our add-ons are designed to enhance every visit—whether your pup needs extra help with shedding, skin care, or overall freshness.

Because when your dog feels their best, you get more of the good stuff—clean cuddles, fewer messes, and a happier pup.

Ready to upgrade their next visit? Book an appointment or ask about adding a spa package during your next stop in.

If it feels like your dog is suddenly leaving fur everywhere—on your couch, clothes, and even floating through the air—you’re not imagining it. Spring marks the start of “coat blow” season, when many dogs shed their thick winter coats to prepare for warmer weather.

The good news? Shedding is completely normal—and with the right routine, it’s manageable.

Why Dogs Shed More in Spring

As temperatures rise and daylight increases, your dog’s body naturally starts to release its dense winter undercoat. This process helps them stay cool in the warmer months ahead.

For double-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and German Shepherds, this seasonal shift can feel extreme—often lasting several weeks and producing what seems like endless fur.

Even short-haired dogs shed during this time, just in smaller amounts.

Signs Your Dog Is “Blowing” Their Coat

Not sure if it’s seasonal shedding or something else? Look for these common signs:

• Clumps or “tufts” of loose fur coming out easily
• Hair collecting quickly around your home
• Increased shedding during petting or brushing
• A lighter, thinner coat over time

Spring shedding typically lasts up to 4–6 weeks, depending on your dog’s breed and coat type.

How to Manage Spring Shedding

1. Brush More (A Lot More)

Brushing is your #1 defense against shedding. During peak coat blow, many dogs benefit from daily brushing to remove loose undercoat before it ends up all over your home.

Using the right tools—like slicker brushes or undercoat rakes—can make a huge difference in how much hair you remove.

2. Schedule Regular Baths

Bathing helps loosen dead hair and wash away dirt, dander, and allergens that build up in the coat.

Most dogs benefit from:

• Baths every 2–4 weeks during shedding season
• Even more frequent care for heavy shedders

Regular bathing also supports skin health, which plays a major role in controlling excessive shedding.

3. Upgrade to a De-Shed Treatment

A professional de-shedding service goes beyond what you can do at home. These treatments typically include:

• Deep cleansing shampoo
• High-velocity blowout to release undercoat
• Thorough brushing with professional tools

During peak shedding, grooming every 3–5 weeks can significantly reduce the amount of hair your dog drops at home.

4. Don’t Skip Conditioning

Healthy skin = less shedding. Dry, irritated skin can cause excess hair loss and flaking.

Using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners helps strengthen the coat and reduce breakage.

5. Stay Consistent

The biggest mistake pet parents make? Waiting until shedding gets out of control.

A consistent grooming routine keeps shedding manageable and prevents matting, which can become uncomfortable for your pup.

What Not to Do

• Don’t shave double-coated breeds — this can damage their natural temperature regulation
• Don’t over-bathe with harsh shampoos — it can dry out the skin and worsen shedding
• Don’t ignore excessive shedding — sudden or patchy hair loss may signal a health issue

Make Shedding Season Easier with petbar

Spring shedding doesn’t have to take over your home (or your sanity). At petbar, our de-shedding baths and routine grooming services are designed to remove loose fur, support healthy skin, and keep your pup feeling fresh.

Want to stay ahead of shedding all season long? A membership makes it easy with regular baths, brush-outs, and add-ons like de-shed treatments built into your routine.

Because less fur on your floors = more time for snuggles.

Many dog owners assume it’s bath time only when their pup starts to smell. But odor isn’t the only sign your dog’s coat needs a good wash. Dirt, oils, allergens, and debris can build up on your dog’s skin and coat long before any noticeable smell appears.

Regular bathing helps keep your dog’s coat healthy, their skin balanced, and your home cleaner. If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a bath, here are five signs your dog may need one—even if they smell perfectly fine.

1. Their Coat Feels Greasy or Sticky

A healthy dog coat should feel soft and relatively clean to the touch. If your dog’s fur feels greasy, sticky, or heavy, it may be due to a buildup of natural oils, dirt, and environmental debris.

Bathing helps remove that buildup and restore the coat’s natural balance. Regular washing also helps prevent clogged pores and skin irritation.

2. Excessive Scratching or Itching

If your dog is scratching more than usual, it could be a sign that irritants like pollen, dust, or dirt are trapped in their coat.

Bathing can help:

• Wash away allergens
• Soothe irritated skin
• Reduce itching caused by environmental buildup

Using gentle shampoos, especially those designed for sensitive skin, can help keep your dog comfortable.

3. Visible Dirt or Dull Fur

Sometimes the signs are easy to spot. If your dog’s coat looks dull, dusty, or visibly dirty, it’s probably time for a bath.

A proper wash can:

• Restore shine and softness
• Remove dirt and debris
• Improve the overall appearance of the coat

Clean coats not only look better but also help maintain healthier skin underneath.

4. Increased Shedding

If you’re noticing more fur around your home than usual, your dog might benefit from a bath and brush. Loose hair and dead undercoat can build up over time.

Bathing followed by brushing helps:

• Remove loose fur
• Reduce shedding around the house
• Keep the coat healthy and manageable

Deshedding treatments can be especially helpful for dogs with thick or double coats.

5. They’ve Been Extra Adventurous Outside

Dogs love exploring—rolling in grass, running through dirt, and sniffing every interesting spot they find. Even if they don’t come back smelling bad, they may still be carrying pollen, dust, and outdoor debris in their coat and paws.

Regular baths help remove those outdoor allergens and keep them from spreading throughout your home.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?

The ideal bathing schedule varies depending on your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Many dogs benefit from bathing every 2–4 weeks, while more active dogs or those with allergies may benefit from more frequent baths.

Make Bath Time Easy with a petbar Membership

Keeping up with regular baths can feel like a chore at home—but consistency makes a big difference for your dog’s health and comfort. That’s why many pet parents choose a petbar membership to make routine grooming simple.

A petbar membership includes monthly essentials that help keep your pup clean and healthy, including:

🐾 1 Bath & Brush each month
🐾 1 Nail Trim
🐾 1 Teeth Brushing
🐾 Unlimited Self-Wash Access

With unlimited self-wash visits, you can stop in whenever your pup needs a quick refresh—whether it’s after a muddy walk, a trip to the dog park, or an adventurous day outside.

For pups that need more frequent grooming—like doodles or other high-maintenance coat types—petbar also offers a Premier Plus Membership. This option is designed for dogs that benefit from more regular baths and brushing to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.

Premier Plus Monthly Includes:

🐾 3 Bath & Brushes
🐾 1 Nail Trim
🐾 3 Teeth Brushings
🐾 $10 Off Grooming Services

This membership helps keep curly or longer coats clean, brushed out, and more manageable between grooming appointments.

Regular bathing, nail care, and dental maintenance help support your dog’s overall health while keeping them looking and feeling their best.

Keep Your Pup Fresh, Clean, and Comfortable

Even if your dog doesn’t smell, their coat may still need a refresh. Regular bathing helps remove dirt, oils, and allergens while keeping your pup comfortable and healthy.

Whether it’s a professional grooming visit or a quick self-wash, staying on a consistent grooming routine helps ensure your dog always looks, feels, and smells their best.

Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and more time outdoors with your pup. Unfortunately, it also brings something less enjoyable for many dogs—seasonal allergies.

Just like people, dogs can react to pollen, grass, dust, and other environmental allergens. If your dog is scratching more than usual this spring, regular bathing and grooming can make a big difference in helping them stay comfortable.

Signs Your Dog May Have Spring Allergies

Seasonal allergies often show up in your dog’s skin and coat. Some common symptoms include:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Red or irritated skin
• Frequent paw chewing
• Watery eyes
• Ear irritation
• Dry or flaky skin

These symptoms can worsen as pollen levels rise during spring. While your veterinarian can help diagnose allergies, routine bathing and grooming is one of the easiest ways to help manage symptoms.

Why Bathing Helps Reduce Allergens

Every time your dog goes outside, allergens like pollen, grass, and dust can collect on their coat, paws, and skin. Without regular baths, those allergens stay on the skin and continue causing irritation.

Bathing your dog regularly helps:

• Remove pollen and environmental allergens
• Soothe itchy, irritated skin
• Reduce odor and buildup in the coat
• Keep the skin barrier healthy

Using gentle shampoos, like our Oatmeal & Aloe shampoo, can also help calm inflammation and moisturize sensitive skin. 

The Importance of Brushing During Allergy Season

Brushing your dog’s coat regularly helps remove loose fur, dirt, and allergens before they become trapped in the coat.

For dogs with thicker or double coats, deshedding treatments can be especially helpful during spring shedding season.

Don’t Forget the Paws

Your dog’s paws collect a lot of allergens during walks and outdoor play. Many dogs with seasonal allergies chew or lick their paws because of irritation.

Regular paw cleaning or grooming services help:

• Remove pollen and debris
• Reduce licking and chewing
• Prevent skin irritation between paw pads

Adding a paw balm or regular paw cleaning routine can provide extra relief.

Grooming Can Help Humans with Allergies Too

If you or someone in your household struggles with seasonal allergies, regular dog grooming can help reduce allergens inside your home as well.

Dogs can carry pollen, dust, and other outdoor allergens into your living space on their coat and paws. When those allergens transfer to furniture, bedding, and clothing, they can trigger allergy symptoms for people.

Keeping your dog clean doesn’t just help them—it can also make allergy season easier for everyone in the household.

Regular Grooming Supports Skin Health

Healthy skin is your dog’s first defense against allergens. Routine grooming helps maintain:

• Clean, balanced skin
• Healthy coat growth
• Reduced buildup of irritants

Professional grooming services can also provide specialized shampoos and treatments designed to support dogs with sensitive skin.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog During Allergy Season?

During spring allergy season, many dogs benefit from bathing every 2–4 weeks, though some may need more frequent baths depending on their coat type and activity level.

If your pup spends a lot of time outdoors, a regular grooming schedule can help prevent allergens from building up on their coat and skin.

Help Your Pup Feel Their Best This Spring

Spring should be a time for enjoying longer walks and sunny days—not dealing with constant itching. Keeping up with regular baths, brushing, and grooming treatments can help reduce allergens on your dog’s skin and coat so they stay happy and comfortable.

At petbar, our baths and grooming services are designed to keep your pup clean, healthy, and feeling their best all season long—while helping keep your home fresher during allergy season too.