Mary Allen
If you have a dog that sheds a lot, it is easy to think that you help the dog by shaving it down during the summer. Many dog owners do it out of kindness, but for a dog with double hair, so-called “double coat”, it is rarely the best option.
Double fur consists of both outer covering hair and a soft undercoat. The double coat acts as insulation against both cold and heat while protecting against wind and water. In the summer, the cover hairs allow cold air to circulate close to the dog’s skin when the undercoat has been unfolded. Australian Shepard, Shetland Sheepdog, Finnish Lapphund, Siberian Husky, most lace breeds are examples of dog breeds with double hair.
The undercoat still remains
If you choose to shave the fur, the undercoat is still there, which prevents cold air from getting down to the skin and cooling the dog. In addition, the protective cover hairs are shorter and can not reflect the sun’s strong rays as effectively. This increases the risk of sunburn. There is also a great risk that a double coat changes texture after shaving. The cover hairs can become rough and frizzy, which makes it easier for rubbish to stick. The undercoat can be matted, which increases the risk of both overheating and skin irritation such as damp eczema. Dogs with simple haircuts can be shaved without problems because shaving does not change the texture of the coat. Examples of dog breeds with simple haircuts are Dobermann, Bulldog, and Whippet.
The dog’s fur reflects what it was bred for. Terriers often have a short, straight coat that does not get caught in rocks and roots, when they dig into holes to hunt small game. While water and mountain dogs, such as Newfoundland, have thick, water-repellent double fur that protects well against the outer elements. Appearance-awarded breeding has meant that many breeds have more fur today than before and these breeds can benefit from being cut down when needed.
Cut down instead
Instead of shaving the dog, you can cut it down. Just cutting the hair on the stomach can usually help dogs with dense fur a lot so that it gets cooler. You can also cut the fur so that it is only about five centimeters long everywhere. Above all, make sure to brush your coat regularly, especially during shedding periods.
It is always best to talk to a good dog groomer to get good guidance before shaving or cutting your dog. You can also consult the dog’s breeder or your veterinarian.