Shaving a double coat

A double-coated dog has a soft undercoat and a courser outercoat, designed to insulate the dog and protect against weather and debris. Examples include Golden retrievers, Labradors, German Shepards and Samoyeds, which all have different types of double-coats.

There has been a lot of debate on whether you should or shouldn’t shave a double coated dog, particularly for the summer months. Some say it destroys the coat, others say it helps them be cooler. There are a few important things to consider before you decide whether clipping a double coat is right for you.

1.     Insulation

The double coat works to keep the dog’s body temperature stable. It works by trapping air between the top coat (guard hairs) and the undercoat, creating an insulating effect. This is what enables them to stay so warm in such icy conditions. However, people often forget that insulation works not only by keeping the cold out, but also by keeping the heat out. Basically, the coat works to keep ANY extreme temperatures away from the skin, so as to not affect the dog’s body temperature.

2.     Alopecia

Alopecia is a common disease that causes drastic hair loss, especially in breeds such as the Pomeranian. Whilst not a lot of research has been done, many groomers believe that the risk of alopecia is increased when shaving a double coat.

3.     Sun protection

Another benefit to the double coat is that it provides in-built sun protection, reflecting harsh rays and preventing the dog from sunburn. A dog with no thick double coat, such as a greyhound, will be much more susceptible to burns on the body than a double coat dog such as a husky.

4.     Matting

Severe matting is when the hair creates tangles so thick, they become near impossible to brush out without causing severe discomfort to the dog. Something to consider when shaving double coats, is that the texture of the shaved coat will become more prone to matting, and will likely continue to need shaving if not maintained. On the other hand, some people struggle to maintain the longer coats, and they may become matted over time as well, particularly in dogs like border collies, who have thick, dense pants.

5.     Grass seeds

Grass seeds pose a risk to all dogs, but they are more of a menace for your double coats, as they burrow into the fur and are hard to find. Some people opt to shave their dogs in order to be able to spot these easier, however another way you can easily spot them is by investing in a small pet dryer. Using one of these every day or two, you can brush them out whilst blowing the hair away from the skin, allowing you to check for grass seeds or check the skin.

6.     Elderly dogs

As dogs get older, they may find it harder and harder to tolerate being regularly brushed and groomed. Ideally, you would put them on a shorter schedule with your groomer, every month at least, in order to ensure the process is always short and the coat is kept maintained. Sometimes, even this is too much though, and so people often opt to get their dog shaved short, every couple of months, in order to avoid having to brush them as often. For these dogs, they are often kept indoors in temperature-controlled houses, so it is not as important they keep their insulating coat. What is important is just making sure they are comfortable during their old age.

7.     Medical issues

Occasionally, vets will recommend a double coat be shaved due to a medical issue, usually hot spots (inflamed patches of skin) or other skin issues. These issues can be treated without shaving the coat, and it should be a last resort. What works best with most skin issues, is a skin care treatment plan which involves bathing once a week for at least a month, in order to heal the skin. The vet may also need to shave a double coat if it requires surgery, in which case, shaving is unavoidable.

8.     Aesthetics

Shaving a double coat will affect their colour. If you are unsure what the dog will look like shaved, pull their hair apart until you can see the undercoat- that is the colour they will end up. The undercoat is duller, and will never look as nice and shiny as their top coat. It is also incredibly difficult to get a nice, even shave on a double coat, as they are not designed for shaving. For some, the looks of the dog isn’t as important to them, but for others, it’s very important, so its something to keep in mind if you choose to shave.

So, there are definitely a few things to keep in mind before you make the leap to shaving your double coat. In most cases, leaving the coat natural and getting regular de-sheds for your dog is the best option, but I understand there are cases that do call for shaving. As a welfare first groomer, I will always advocate for what is best for the dog in each circumstance, and I am well aware that it is not always black and white. If you are still unsure on whether you should shave or leave natural, please feel free to reach out and I will be happy to help you figure out what is best for your dog, with no judgement.