Double Coated Breeds

A double coat consists of an ‘undercoat’ and a ‘top coat. The undercoat is the thicker, shorter hair closest to the skin, which has a softer texture. It acts a little like a thermal layer, keeping your dog warm during the colder months.

Here are a few examples of double coated breeds:

Labrador

Golden Retriever

Samoyed

German/Japanese Spitz

Pomeraniana

German Shepherd

Husky

Akita

Collie

During the approach to summer your dog will shed most of the excess undercoat built up during the winter months to prepare for the warmer weather ahead. The top coat consists of longer, wiry hairs called ‘guard hairs’. This hair protects the undercoat from getting wet and dirty but also protects the skin against harmful UV sun rays.

These two coats are your dogs natural protection and without them maintained correctly your dog could suffer numerous problems related to the skin and overall health.

It is essential for double coated dogs to be groomed regularly. Thick coats can trap dirt and heat, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and potential skin irritations.

Why not to shave a double coated dog

Double coats form a natural protection during the colder seasons. The coat acts as a temperature regulator and also helps protect the skin from the elements. Clipping a double coat can be detrimental to the long term condition of the coat but also to the general well being of the skin.

The best course of action

Double coated dogs do shed lightly during the entire year, however, they will have two periods of shedding. You will notice this by tufts appearing and this is when it is time to get brushing. The best tool is an undercoat rake, using long smooth strokes you will be able to pull out the dead undercoat relatively easily.

It can take up to a week to remove the undercoat fully. You may prefer to do this in short bursts so as not to aggravate your dog, but remember to reward any good behaviour with a treat.

When your dog is with me in the salon I will give a thorough wash and use the high velocity dryer to blow out more of the undercoat. It is then time to brush until the rest of the hair is smooth and sleek.