Shaving a double-coated dog

At Head to Tail, we get many requests to shave double-coated dogs such as Goldens, Labs, Huskies, etc. In an ideal world, these dogs should be thoroughly brushed every day during a change of season and at least twice a week during other times. Shaving into the undercoat may affect the way it will grow back:
- The coat may get thicker
- Hair may not grow back at the same rate causing unevenness
- The texture of the coat may become more fuzzy and look dull

However, there are occasions when shaving may be a solution:
- To get rid of matted and packed undercoat fast when skin irritations are present. Shaving the dog also helps with the application of topical treatments.
- When a family wants to be able to bathe the dog at home and a full coat is difficult to maintain.
- For overall easy maintenance

Many dog owners feel that their dogs may get hot in the summer with their thick undercoat. Packed and matted undercoat is indeed very uncomfortable for the dog, not because of the heat but because it prevents the air from reaching the skin causing wetness, itchiness and in severe cases fungal infections. Dogs do not sweat through the skin under their coat but through their pads and cool themselves down by panting. Therefore shaving will not cool down a dog but may be a good option when the undercoat has grown out of control and cannot be combed out in a reasonable time. It is also important to note that shaved dogs are more at risk for sunburns and insect bites and should be protected accordingly.

Goldens and other feathered double-coated dogs look beautiful in a modified puppy cut. Instead of shaving into the undercoat, groomers use a snap-on comb attachment to their clippers to achieve a uniform coat length of 3/4 inch to 1 and 1/2 inch. This haircut is possible for dogs kept on a regular grooming schedule and without too much undercoat.

Lastly, a well maintained double-coated dog kept in full coat is a sight to behold. Regular grooming will keep the coat clean, free of tangles, shiny and beautiful looking. Although I wish all dogs could be maintained according to their breed standards, I certainly understand that many circumstances make it impossible for dog owners to keep up with the intensive brushing and combing of a double-coated dog. Shaving a double-coated dog is a fine option but not the only option and should be considered carefully. We will be happy to talk to you about how to best maintain your double-coated dog.