Newfoundlands Grooming
Calm handling
Built for the Ocean. Hard to Manage at Home
The most recognizable feature of the Newfoundland dog is its coat. Massive.
Dense. Water-resistant. Built for real work.
These dogs were developed to swim in cold North Atlantic waters, pulling nets and rescuing people.
That coat wasn’t meant to look impressive. It was built to protect the dog from cold, wind, and water.
For an owner, though, that coat is something you manage.
What makes the Newfoundland coat unique?
When shedding begins, it happens quickly. The undercoat releases in large amounts, and if it isn’t removed it begins packing tightly against the skin.
At that point brushing the surface doesn’t solve the problem.
You’re managing an insulation layer designed for cold ocean water.
A common mistake
Some owners try to shave the coat short during summer.
It may seem logical, but it can damage how the coat functions. The double coat
helps regulate temperature. Removing it too aggressively can interfere
with cooling and change how the coat grows back.
Newfoundlands don’t need shaving.
They need proper coat management and controlled de-shedding.
Dense. Water-resistant. Built for real work.
These dogs were developed to swim in cold North Atlantic waters, pulling nets and rescuing people.
That coat wasn’t meant to look impressive. It was built to protect the dog from cold, wind, and water.
For an owner, though, that coat is something you manage.
What makes the Newfoundland coat unique?
- Dense insulating undercoat
- Heavy, water-resistant outer coat
- Thick feathering on legs, chest, and tail
- Heavy seasonal shedding in spring and fall
When shedding begins, it happens quickly. The undercoat releases in large amounts, and if it isn’t removed it begins packing tightly against the skin.
At that point brushing the surface doesn’t solve the problem.
You’re managing an insulation layer designed for cold ocean water.
A common mistake
Some owners try to shave the coat short during summer.
It may seem logical, but it can damage how the coat functions. The double coat
helps regulate temperature. Removing it too aggressively can interfere
with cooling and change how the coat grows back.
Newfoundlands don’t need shaving.
They need proper coat management and controlled de-shedding.
Grooming Routine: Big Dog. Real Maintenance
Owning a Newfoundland means committing to coat maintenance.
Not occasional brushing. A routine.
Weekly basics:
Because Newfoundlands love water,
moisture can stay trapped in the coat longer than many owners realize. From the outside the coat
may look dry. Underneath, dense undercoat can still hold moisture close to the skin.
This warm, damp environment is exactly where bacteria and irritation start.
One detail many owners overlook
Newfoundlands grow thick feathering around their paws and between the pads.
Without trimming, that hair collects moisture, dirt, and debris from walks.
Keeping paw areas tidy helps prevent slipping, irritation, and odor.
Not occasional brushing. A routine.
Weekly basics:
- Brush 2–3 times per week
- Increase brushing during seasonal shedding
- Focus on friction areas: behind ears, under arms, chest, and hind legs
- Check the skin regularly, especially if your dog swims often
Because Newfoundlands love water,
moisture can stay trapped in the coat longer than many owners realize. From the outside the coat
may look dry. Underneath, dense undercoat can still hold moisture close to the skin.
This warm, damp environment is exactly where bacteria and irritation start.
One detail many owners overlook
Newfoundlands grow thick feathering around their paws and between the pads.
Without trimming, that hair collects moisture, dirt, and debris from walks.
Keeping paw areas tidy helps prevent slipping, irritation, and odor.
Start Early. Stay Ahead
An adult Newfoundland can easily weigh 120–150 pounds.
Once a dog that size decides grooming is uncomfortable, the process
becomes much harder for everyone.
That’s why early exposure matters.:
Puppies should learn that brushing, dryers, nail trims, and handling are simply part of normal life.
Our recommendation:
Bring your puppy in around 4 months old, right after vaccinations are complete.
Not for a full groom. Not for a dramatic transformation.Just for a calm introduction.
Stay with your puppy. Bring treats. Let them explore the table,
the sounds, and the equipment while we observe how they react.
From there we decide together:
This step isn’t about selling services. It’s about prevention.
Because waiting until your Newfoundland is a full-grown giant with packed undercoat can quickly turn into:
A simple puppy bath introduction ($60–80) often prevents years of difficult grooming visits.
The earlier the routine starts, the easier the next decade becomes.
Once a dog that size decides grooming is uncomfortable, the process
becomes much harder for everyone.
That’s why early exposure matters.:
Puppies should learn that brushing, dryers, nail trims, and handling are simply part of normal life.
Our recommendation:
Bring your puppy in around 4 months old, right after vaccinations are complete.
Not for a full groom. Not for a dramatic transformation.Just for a calm introduction.
Stay with your puppy. Bring treats. Let them explore the table,
the sounds, and the equipment while we observe how they react.
From there we decide together:
- If your puppy benefits from short training-style grooming visits
- Or if they’re relaxed enough that we simply schedule maintenance before heavy shedding begins
This step isn’t about selling services. It’s about prevention.
Because waiting until your Newfoundland is a full-grown giant with packed undercoat can quickly turn into:
- multi-hour grooming sessions
- severely compacted coat
- expensive appointments
- a stressed dog unsure about the process
A simple puppy bath introduction ($60–80) often prevents years of difficult grooming visits.
The earlier the routine starts, the easier the next decade becomes.
Common Owner Mistakes
Even experienced dog owners sometimes underestimate how demanding the Newfoundland coat can be.
“They swim a lot, so the coat stays clean”
Swimming actually makes coat maintenance more important. Water can stay trapped inside the dense undercoat long after the dog appears dry.
Without proper drying and brushing, that moisture can lead to odor, irritation, and bacterial growth.
Brushing only the surface
Newfoundlands have so much coat that surface brushing often misses the real issue.
Underneath, the undercoat may already be packed tightly against the skin. Once that happens, airflow is reduced and skin problems can begin.
Shaving the coat in hot weather
Because these dogs look heavily coated, owners sometimes believe shaving will keep them cooler.
In reality, the double coat regulates temperature. When shaved too short:
And like many giant breeds, Newfoundlands are extremely tolerant dogs. They rarely show discomfort early, which means problems often develop before owners notice them.
Prevention is always easier than correction.
“They swim a lot, so the coat stays clean”
Swimming actually makes coat maintenance more important. Water can stay trapped inside the dense undercoat long after the dog appears dry.
Without proper drying and brushing, that moisture can lead to odor, irritation, and bacterial growth.
Brushing only the surface
Newfoundlands have so much coat that surface brushing often misses the real issue.
Underneath, the undercoat may already be packed tightly against the skin. Once that happens, airflow is reduced and skin problems can begin.
Shaving the coat in hot weather
Because these dogs look heavily coated, owners sometimes believe shaving will keep them cooler.
In reality, the double coat regulates temperature. When shaved too short:
- the undercoat may grow back unevenly
- texture can become curly or woolly
- the protective outer coat may thin
- natural insulation from heat is reduced
And like many giant breeds, Newfoundlands are extremely tolerant dogs. They rarely show discomfort early, which means problems often develop before owners notice them.
Prevention is always easier than correction.
Prises
Bath&Deshedding
1h 30 mins - Starting $110
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Breed examples: short coated Husky, German Shepard, Golden Retriver.
Bath&Deshedding Husky type
3h - $200+
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Breed examples: Akita, Malamute, Husky, Great Pyrenees
1h 30 mins - Starting $110
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Breed examples: short coated Husky, German Shepard, Golden Retriver.
Bath&Deshedding Husky type
3h - $200+
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Breed examples: Akita, Malamute, Husky, Great Pyrenees
Bath&Deshedding
2h - Starting $120
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Bath&Deshedding Husky type
4h - $250+
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Breed examples: Malamute, Great Pyrenees, NewFoundland, Giant Husky mix
2h - Starting $120
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Bath&Deshedding Husky type
4h - $250+
Includes: Specialty shampoo (oatmeal or hypoallergenic, based on your choice), deshedding conditioner, thorough blowout of the undercoat, nail trim, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and gland expression, sanitory zone trim, scissoring the "feathers" and "Grinch feets".
Breed examples: Malamute, Great Pyrenees, NewFoundland, Giant Husky mix
Oh, you’re definitely where you need to be!
My biggest dog? 230lb Saint Bernard named Bear —six hours later, he smelled like Disney Princess👑🐾.
Give me a call or text, and we’ll find a time that works for you!
My biggest dog? 230lb Saint Bernard named Bear —six hours later, he smelled like Disney Princess👑🐾.
Give me a call or text, and we’ll find a time that works for you!
We offer same-day nail appointments, with pricing based solely on your dog's behavior—not their weight or breed.
Dogs tolerant to the grinder – $20
"Tasmanian Devils" requiring three people to manage – Up to $40
Dogs tolerant to the grinder – $20
"Tasmanian Devils" requiring three people to manage – Up to $40
Flea&Tick Treatment
20 mins - $20+
IMPORTANT! If you notice any signs of flea activity, please inform us in advance. We will immediately take your dog to the bathing area to prevent the spread of infestation. If fleas are discovered during grooming, a flea treatment will be automatically added to your service package.
Skin Issue Treatment
10 mins - $20+
CO2 hydrotherapy was developed for medical treatment for physical rehabilitation purposes, it's 100% natural and safe to use. CO2 hydrotherapy provides not only an ultra cleansing result, but to promote circulatory system and self-healing process.
Effective with: hotspots, bug bites, dandruff, flaky skin, hairloss, itchiness and enhance immune system.
Medicated shampoo
15 mins - $20+
Medicated shampoo is recommended for dogs with hot spots, itching, or skin irritation caused by bacteria or fungal infections.
We can perform a visual skin assessment and, in many cases, suggest a suitable shampoo based on whether the irritation appears allergy-related, bacterial, or fungal. However, we always recommend veterinary testing for an accurate diagnosis.
De-matting
15 mins are included in grooming service. Every following minute + $1,5
IMPORTANT! We won't turn you over because your dog is matted. Please tell us the real coat condition when you book an appointment. If we have a tight schedule and you won't tell us that we need to add additional time, we might reschedule your appointment for the later time or day - just because we can't squeeze so much time. We also can suggest you to step by with your dog and have a complimentary coat assessment - in this case you will receive all the necessary recommendation for making this process easier for both parties.
20 mins - $20+
IMPORTANT! If you notice any signs of flea activity, please inform us in advance. We will immediately take your dog to the bathing area to prevent the spread of infestation. If fleas are discovered during grooming, a flea treatment will be automatically added to your service package.
Skin Issue Treatment
10 mins - $20+
CO2 hydrotherapy was developed for medical treatment for physical rehabilitation purposes, it's 100% natural and safe to use. CO2 hydrotherapy provides not only an ultra cleansing result, but to promote circulatory system and self-healing process.
Effective with: hotspots, bug bites, dandruff, flaky skin, hairloss, itchiness and enhance immune system.
Medicated shampoo
15 mins - $20+
Medicated shampoo is recommended for dogs with hot spots, itching, or skin irritation caused by bacteria or fungal infections.
We can perform a visual skin assessment and, in many cases, suggest a suitable shampoo based on whether the irritation appears allergy-related, bacterial, or fungal. However, we always recommend veterinary testing for an accurate diagnosis.
De-matting
15 mins are included in grooming service. Every following minute + $1,5
IMPORTANT! We won't turn you over because your dog is matted. Please tell us the real coat condition when you book an appointment. If we have a tight schedule and you won't tell us that we need to add additional time, we might reschedule your appointment for the later time or day - just because we can't squeeze so much time. We also can suggest you to step by with your dog and have a complimentary coat assessment - in this case you will receive all the necessary recommendation for making this process easier for both parties.
Why Professional Grooming Matters
for This Breed
Working with a giant, water-loving double-coated breed requires more than basic tools.
Professional grooming allows us to:
A damp undercoat is the perfect environment for bacteria. What might seem like simple “dog smell” can actually be bacterial growth under the coat. Over time this can lead to skin infections and hot spots.
Service time can also vary.
Two Newfoundlands of the same weight may require very different grooming times depending on:
Professional grooming isn’t just about appearance.
It protects the skin, prevents painful matting, and keeps the coat functioning the way it was designed to.
After a proper de-shedding session, the difference is obvious.
The dog moves easier, overheats less, and simply feels more comfortable in that massive coat.
Professional grooming allows us to:
- safely remove packed undercoat
- thoroughly dry the dense coat
- inspect the skin beneath all that fur
A damp undercoat is the perfect environment for bacteria. What might seem like simple “dog smell” can actually be bacterial growth under the coat. Over time this can lead to skin infections and hot spots.
Service time can also vary.
Two Newfoundlands of the same weight may require very different grooming times depending on:
- coat density
- season
- shedding stage
- overall coat condition
Professional grooming isn’t just about appearance.
It protects the skin, prevents painful matting, and keeps the coat functioning the way it was designed to.
After a proper de-shedding session, the difference is obvious.
The dog moves easier, overheats less, and simply feels more comfortable in that massive coat.
Breed Related FAQs
The base grooming time depends on your dog’s size and is listed in our pricing section.
For most dogs, the process takes between 1.5 to 3 hours. Larger breeds or heavy coats may take longer.
If the coat is in poor condition or the dog is not cooperative, the process may take longer. In such cases, additional time is charged at $1 per minute.
We also never rush critical parts of the service. Proper drying is essential - we cannot send a dog home with a damp coat, as this can lead to skin issues.
Because of this, the total appointment time may vary.
For most dogs, the process takes between 1.5 to 3 hours. Larger breeds or heavy coats may take longer.
If the coat is in poor condition or the dog is not cooperative, the process may take longer. In such cases, additional time is charged at $1 per minute.
We also never rush critical parts of the service. Proper drying is essential - we cannot send a dog home with a damp coat, as this can lead to skin issues.
Because of this, the total appointment time may vary.
That depends on how severe the matting is and on the type of coat.
If the mat can be safely separated from the skin, we will gently brush it out using professional tools and detangling products.
However, when mats are tight to the skin, brushing can be painful and may damage the skin. In those cases, shaving is the safest and most humane option.
Severe matting is not just cosmetic. It can trap moisture, restrict movement, and lead to irritation or even circulation issues.
For double-coated breeds, we take a different approach.
We do not shave double-coated dogs for aesthetic reasons, as shaving
can damage coat structure and affect natural thermoregulation.
Whenever possible, we focus on deshedding and preserving the coat.
However, if the coat is severely impacted, matted close to the skin, or already damaged by previous shaving, we assess the situation individually
and choose the safest option for the dog.
For poodles, doodles, and similar coat types, timing is critical. During coat transition, matting can form very close to the skin, and in these cases shaving is often
the safest way to reset the coat and start proper maintenance.
We always evaluate the coat at check-in and explain the situation
to the owner so expectations are clear before we begin.
If the mat can be safely separated from the skin, we will gently brush it out using professional tools and detangling products.
However, when mats are tight to the skin, brushing can be painful and may damage the skin. In those cases, shaving is the safest and most humane option.
Severe matting is not just cosmetic. It can trap moisture, restrict movement, and lead to irritation or even circulation issues.
For double-coated breeds, we take a different approach.
We do not shave double-coated dogs for aesthetic reasons, as shaving
can damage coat structure and affect natural thermoregulation.
Whenever possible, we focus on deshedding and preserving the coat.
However, if the coat is severely impacted, matted close to the skin, or already damaged by previous shaving, we assess the situation individually
and choose the safest option for the dog.
For poodles, doodles, and similar coat types, timing is critical. During coat transition, matting can form very close to the skin, and in these cases shaving is often
the safest way to reset the coat and start proper maintenance.
We always evaluate the coat at check-in and explain the situation
to the owner so expectations are clear before we begin.
Grooming Shouldn't Make Your Dog Stressed
Most grooming salons hide what happens behind closed doors. We built ours with glass walls because we have nothing to hide — ever. Watch every moment. See your dog relaxed. Leave knowing they were treated with love
- TRANSPARENCYSee Everything. Trust Everything.
- Glass walls
- Watch anytime
- Live updates
- ACCEPTANCEEvery Dog Welcome. No Exceptions.
- Up to 235 lbs
- Seniors 13+
- Anxious dogs OK
- COMFORT FIRSTWe Measure Success by Tail Wags, Not Speed.
- Cage-free
- Fear-free
- Never rushed
Newfoundland Grooming in Cary, NC
Newfoundland Grooming at Rebel Tails: Clean Coats, Comfortable Giants, Less Shedding at Home
Gentle Newfoundland grooming for giant double coats
Newfoundlands are famous for their massive size, sweet nature, and impressive double coat. That coat is beautiful—but it also takes serious upkeep. At Rebel Tails, our Newfoundland grooming service is designed to keep your dog clean, comfortable, and healthy without over-trimming or cutting corners.
If you’ve been searching “newfoundland grooming near me,” you’re probably looking for a groomer who understands giant breeds, heavy shedding, and the amount of coat maintenance a Newfie really needs. We focus on safe handling, skin comfort, and thorough coat care that helps your dog feel lighter and your home stay cleaner between visits.
Why Newfoundlands need specialized grooming
Newfoundlands have a dense, weather-resistant double coat. The outer coat helps protect against dirt and moisture, while the thick undercoat traps warmth and sheds heavily—especially during seasonal coat changes.
When the undercoat becomes packed in, it can hold moisture close to the skin, create odor, contribute to hot spots, and make your dog feel uncomfortable. Because Newfoundlands are so large, these coat problems can build up fast if grooming is skipped for too long.
Regular professional grooming helps remove loose undercoat, improve airflow through the coat, reduce shedding around the house, and keep the skin healthier overall.
What’s included in our Newfoundland grooming service
Every Newfoundland is different, so we adjust the groom based on coat condition, age, activity level, and temperament. A typical Newfoundland appointment at Rebel Tails may include:
- Coat and skin assessment before we begin;
- Thorough brush-out and undercoat removal with breed-appropriate tools;
- Bath with professional shampoo and conditioner for double coats;
- Complete blow-dry to lift the coat and remove trapped loose fur;
- De-shedding treatment for a lighter, cleaner-feeling coat;
- Nail trim to support comfort and healthy movement;
- Ear cleaning and eye-area tidy for freshness and hygiene;
- Paw pad trim and sanitary trim for better cleanliness and traction;
- Light outline trimming if needed to keep a neat, natural finish.
Our goal is never to shave away the protective coat. We focus on maintaining its natural function while making it easier to manage.
Gentle, low-stress care for giant breeds
Newfoundlands are big dogs with big hearts, and many of them are sensitive to handling around the feet, belly, and rear. We use calm, patient techniques and give dogs time to settle in so grooming feels safer and less overwhelming.
If your Newfoundland is older, anxious, or new to grooming, let us know. We can slow the pace, build in breaks, and tailor the visit to your dog’s comfort level.
Home care tips between grooming visits
To keep your Newfoundland’s coat in better shape between appointments:
- Brush regularly, especially behind the ears, under the collar, and around the legs;
- Pay close attention during shedding seasons when undercoat builds up faster;
- Dry the coat thoroughly after swimming, baths, or rainy walks;
- Keep paws clean and check for packed fur between the pads.
Consistent home care helps reduce matting, improve comfort, and make each professional groom easier on your dog.
Book your Newfoundland grooming appointment
If you’re looking for expert Newfoundland grooming with a calm, giant-breed-friendly approach, Rebel Tails is here to help. We understand heavy coats, heavy shedding, and how to handle big dogs with care.
Schedule your Newfoundland grooming appointment today and let us help your gentle giant stay clean, comfortable, and beautifully maintained.