What does a sanitary trim look like?
Breana Kreiger
2025-08-03 12:33:25
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The sanitary trim is meant to keep hair short in the areas that often get soiled when an animal is toileting, including the bottom, genitals, and abdomen.
Long-haired breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Havanese are great candidates for these trims as their fur will naturally get in the way when they’re doing their business.
However, sometimes, even short-haired dogs get messy when toileting and can benefit from getting a sanitary trim now and then.
You know your pup and their toileting habits and hygiene best.
If your dog is matting around their genitals, smelling awful, or carrying around stuck-on feces on their back end, they could probably use a sanitary trim.
Sanitary trims help prevent the spread of bacteria, keep your pup clean, and ensure your home stays smelling fresh.
The following signs are a good indicator that your pup is overdue for a sanitary trim: Their fur is matting or tangling around their anus
There’s a strong, unpleasant odor coming from your pet’s private area
Your female dog is in heat and producing extra discharge
Sanitary trims are essential for intact female dogs when they go into heat as they may bleed or produce extra discharge that can get stuck in their fur.
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