04/23/2025
Why You Shouldn’t Shave Double-Coated Dogs
At JD’s Dog Spa, we care deeply about your dog’s health, comfort, and well-being—and that includes their coat! Many pet parents think shaving a dog’s thick coat will help them stay cooler in the summer, but for double-coated breeds, this can actually do more harm than good.
What Is a Double Coat?
Double-coated dogs have two layers of fur:
• A soft, insulating undercoat that keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• A tougher topcoat that repels dirt, moisture, and harmful UV rays.
Breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Border Collies are all double-coated.
Why Not Shave?
• Temperature Regulation: Their coat naturally adjusts with the seasons, shedding in spring and fall. Shaving disrupts this process and can actually make it harder for your dog to stay cool.
• Skin Protection: The topcoat protects against sunburn and bug bites. Without it, your dog’s skin is left exposed and vulnerable.
• Coat Damage: Shaving can permanently damage the way their fur grows back—often resulting in patchy, uneven, or wiry regrowth.
What You Can Do Instead
Regular grooming is key! Brushing out loose undercoat helps with airflow and reduces shedding. At JD’s Dog Spa, we offer specialized deshedding treatments and grooming techniques to keep your double-coated dog feeling great without risking their coat health.
When in doubt, don’t shave—groom!