Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, and Huskies are a few examples of double-coated dogs. Dogs were initially bred for specific tasks, such as being comfortable in water or withstanding cold temperatures, and having a double coat that protects them from the elements. For example, golden retrievers were bred to retrieve game, perform search and rescue operations, and work in various weather conditions. Their thick coats help them withstand cold, heat, wind, and even UV rays in the field or water. Given this, should you shave a dog with a double coat?

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A double coat consists of two types of fur: guard hairs and the undercoat. The guard hairs are the longer, coarser outer hairs, while the undercoat is soft, shorter, and sheds naturally. The undercoat helps regulate the dog’s body temperature by trapping heat in cold weather and allowing air circulation to cool the dog in hot weather. Each hair follicle on a double-coated dog produces multiple secondary hairs (the undercoat), which shed as the seasons change.

Although regular grooming and brushing reduce excessive shedding, a well-maintained double coat minimizes the amount of hair that sheds. Shaving your dog, however, disrupts this natural process and can have unintended consequences.

The Dangers of Shaving Double-Coated Dogs

Shaving a double-coated dog can negatively affect their ability to regulate their body temperature. While some owners think shaving will make their dog cooler, it can do the opposite. In reality, a shaved dog’s body must work harder to maintain their normal body temperature. The undercoat helps keep your dog cool, but the coat can’t perform its protective function when it’s shaved or damaged.

A common misconception is that dogs who spend most of their time indoors won’t need their coat. But even indoor dogs need their double coat to protect their skin and help with temperature regulation. Regular brushing helps the undercoat shed naturally without disrupting the dog’s ability to manage their internal temperature. Shaving a double-coated breed confuses the dog’s body, potentially causing post-clipping alopecia.

Post-Clipping Alopecia

Post-clipping alopecia is a condition in which hair fails to regrow properly after being shaved. This condition can lead to bald patches or discolored skin, and in many cases, the hair may not grow back fully. Breeds like Pomeranians, Chow Chows, German Shepherds, Huskies, and Golden Retrievers are particularly vulnerable to post-clipping alopecia.

If your double-coated dog suffers from this condition, it could take a long time for their fur to regrow, or in some cases, it might not grow back. This can lead to long-term hair loss and skin problems, so it’s critical to avoid shaving unless medically necessary.

Proper Care for Double-Coated Dogs

Proper grooming is important to maintain your double-coated dog’s health and appearance. Instead of shaving, regular care should include:

• Baths and Brush-outs: This helps remove dead undercoat hair, prevent matting, and allow the dog’s skin to breathe. Ideally, every 4-6 weeks.
• Brushing: Frequent brushing ensures the undercoat sheds naturally and keeps your dog comfortable throughout the year. Try to brush your double-coated dog 2-3 times a week.

When properly cared for, a double coat does not contribute to overheating but offers a protective barrier against the elements.

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The Bottom Line

Shaving a double-coated dog is unnecessary and potentially harmful to your pet’s well-being. Rather than shaving, regular brushing and proper maintenance will keep your dog comfortable while allowing their natural coat to work as intended. Before deciding about grooming, consult a professional pet stylist for the best care techniques for your double-coated dog.

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