As temperatures rise, many dog owners wonder: “Should I shave my double-coated dog to keep him cooler?” The short answer? No. Shaving a double-coated breed can do more harm than good, leading to coat damage, temperature regulation issues, and even sunburn. Let’s debunk some common myths about shaving and discuss what to do when matted fur becomes a problem.
Myth #1: Shaving a Double-Coated Dog Keeps Them Cooler
It might seem logical to shave your Husky, Pomeranian, or Sheltie in the summer to help them beat the heat. However, their coat is naturally designed to regulate temperature.
🐕 The undercoat insulates, keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer.
🐕 The topcoat protects against sun exposure, dirt, and moisture.
When you shave a double-coated dog, you strip away this natural protection. Instead of helping them cool down, shaving can actually make it harder for them to regulate their body temperature, leading to overheating.
Myth #2: Their Coat Will Grow Back Normally After a Shave
Shaving a double-coated dog can cause permanent coat damage. Their fur may grow back:
❌ Patchy and uneven
❌ Coarser or wiry in texture
❌ With thinner spots or areas of hair loss
Some dogs develop a condition resembling alopecia, where the fur doesn’t grow back properly, leaving them with permanent bald patches or an altered coat texture.
Myth #3: Shaving Reduces Shedding
Your dog will still shed after being shaved—the hairs will just be shorter. In fact, tiny shaved hairs are often harder to clean up because they embed into furniture, clothing, and carpets more easily than longer hairs.
Instead of shaving, regular brushing and deshedding treatments will effectively manage shedding while keeping your dog’s coat healthy.
When Shaving is Necessary: Dealing with Matted Fur
While shaving a healthy double coat isn’t recommended, there’s one scenario where shaving may be unavoidable: severe matting.
Mats form when the coat becomes tangled and knotted, often near the skin. Over time, these mats:
⚠️ Trap moisture, leading to skin infections
⚠️ Pull on the skin, causing pain and irritation
⚠️ Block airflow to the skin, increasing discomfort and overheating
If mats are small, they can sometimes be brushed out using the right tools (such as a slicker brush or de-matting comb). However, severe matting may require shaving—also known as a “smoothie” cut—where the fur is clipped very short to remove the mats entirely.
👉 How to prevent matting: Regular brushing is key! Double-coated breeds should be brushed multiple times a week, while smooth-coated breeds still benefit from weekly brushing to remove loose hairs.
The Right Way to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer
Instead of shaving, here are safe ways to help your dog beat the heat:
🌿 Regular Brushing & Deshedding – Removes excess undercoat to improve airflow.
💦 Cool Water Play – Kiddie pools, sprinklers, or cool baths can provide relief.
🏡 Shade & Hydration – Always ensure access to water and a shady retreat.
❄️ Cooling Mats or Vests – Special cooling gear can help lower body temperature.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your dog’s coat structure is essential for proper grooming. Avoid shaving double-coated dogs unless absolutely necessary, and prioritize routine brushing to prevent matting. If your dog does develop severe mats, a professional groomer can safely remove them while advising on coat care moving forward.