21/11/2020
WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER SHAVE A DOUBLE-COATED DOG
Since it's boiling hot outside and most people are considering what to do with their dogs in this heat, I thought it would be great to share the science behind why certain dogs have two coats, and why it's so important to maintain their coats without shaving them. If you are still skeptical after reading this, please do your own research before deciding to shave your dog. I have attached a link to a list of double-coated dogs. If your dog is not listed, you can also Google "is [insert dog breed] double coated?" to make sure.
Dr. Cord Brundage is an American veterinarian and animal physiologist who has done extensive research on thermal regulation in domestic animals. In one of his studies, Infrared Thermography (IRT) was used to assess the surface temperatures of dogs with different coat types. In short, he found dogs with single or short coats have a surface temperature that is 2°C warmer than double-coated and long haired dogs. This is mainly due to the undercoat and its protection from the elements.
The first very important thing to remember is that dogs do not cool themselves through their skin like humans do. In order to cool down, dogs pant and sweat through the pads of their paws.
It is also important to note that shaving your double-coated dog will not stop them from shedding. Their new coat will still shed, even if it is much shorter than the original coat.
The age of your dog also plays a role in the condition of its coat. There is a chance that the new coat will come out in patches, and the older the dog is, the more likely it is that the top coat will grow back patchy, exposing the undercoat or even resulting in permanent damage to the coat.
WHAT IS THE UNDERCOAT FOR?
The undercoat is a lot thicker and softer than the guard (upper) hairs. Its main purpose is to protect the dog from rapid temperature changes - keeping the dog warm in cold weather, and cool in hotter conditions.
This undercoat also protects the dog from sunburn while the guard hairs reflect the UV rays away from the skin. If you shave this protective layer, your dog is exposed to the sun and the elements.
When shaved, the undercoat often grows back thicker than before. This results in uneven patches on your dog and could even lead to health problems if the coat does not grow back the way it should to offer protection.
WHAT IS THE TOP COAT FOR?
The top (guard) coat does not shed and is a lot tougher than the undercoat. During hot weather, this coat traps cool air in order to cool down your dog. In colder weather, it traps warm air in order to insulate your dog.
This top coat also takes longer to grow back than the bottom coat after being shaved, resulting in uneven and patchy areas that could take months or even years to grow properly again.
The top coat is water-resistant, preventing rain from reaching the undercoat. This coat reflects UV rays away from the skin and also serves as a barrier against bug bites.
WHAT CAN YOU DO INSTEAD OF SHAVING
Double-coated dogs will shed their undercoat during hotter months. It is very important to brush your dog regularly during this period in order to remove the excess hair. Sending your dog to a groomer will also prevent a build-up of loose fur.
These dogs have adapted to their environments. This is why they are able to live in very cold AND hot, tropical countries like South Africa.
If you would like to keep your dogs cool this summer, rather provide them with a splash pool, shade, ice blocks or even let them into an air-conditioned room if it gets too hot outside.
LIST OF SOME OF THE DOUBLE COATED DOGS:
https://www.dogthelove.com/dog-breeds/list/dog-breeds-with-double-coats
Credit goes to: The Pack Life for this information.
