The Grooming Myth That Needs to Go: “Shaving Keeps Double-Coated Dogs Cool”

You may have heard this before:

“Should I shave my dog for summer to keep them cool?”

It’s a common belief—but for double-coated breeds, it’s not the best approach.

🐾 How Double Coats Actually Work

Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and German Shepherds have a double coat made up of:

• a protective outer layer (guard hairs)

• a soft, insulating undercoat

Together, these layers help regulate temperature—keeping your dog warm in the winter and helping protect them from heat in the summer.

🐾 Why Shaving Isn’t the Solution

Shaving a double-coated dog can disrupt how the coat naturally functions.

It may lead to:

• uneven or patchy regrowth

• changes in coat texture

• reduced protection from sun and heat

In some cases, the coat may not grow back the same.

🐾 What Actually Helps in Warmer Months

Instead of removing the coat, the focus should be on maintaining it properly.

Regular grooming helps:

• remove excess undercoat

• improve airflow through the coat

• reduce shedding

• keep your dog more comfortable overall

🐾 A Better Approach

Double-coated dogs benefit most from:

• consistent grooming and deshedding

• proper brushing between visits

• maintaining the integrity of the coat

This allows the coat to do what it was designed to do—protect and regulate.

✨ Final Thoughts

Every dog is different, and there are always exceptions—but in most cases, shaving a double coat isn’t necessary to keep your dog comfortable in the summer.

A well-maintained coat is far more effective than removing it.