First of all, what is a double-coated dog?
A double-coated dog is a breed—like a Husky, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, or Akita—that naturally has two layers of fur designed to protect them in both hot and cold weather. The first layer, the undercoat, is made of fine, fluffy hairs that sit closest to the skin. This is the layer that sheds heavily, especially seasonally. Its main purpose is to trap air and insulate your dog, helping regulate body temperature and keeping them warm in cold climates.
The second layer is the topcoat, made up of tougher guard hairs. These hairs do not shed in the same way. Instead, they function as a protective barrier against UV rays, bug bites, dirt, and debris. While the undercoat protects from the cold, the topcoat actually helps insulate against heat, reflecting sunlight and allowing proper airflow through the coat.
This combination is nature’s built-in climate control system—and why the #1 rule is simple: Do NOT shave your double-coated dog.
Why You Shouldn’t Shave a Double-Coated Dog
Many pet parents believe shaving will help their dog stay cool in the summer or reduce shedding. In reality, it does the opposite. These dogs do not cool themselves through their skin the way humans do. They don’t even sweat through their bodies—only the pads of their paws produce sweat. A dog’s primary method of cooling is panting, and their coat plays a crucial role in temperature regulation.
When you shave a double-coated dog:
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You remove their natural ability to heat and cool themselves
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You expose their skin to sunburn, parasites, and overheating
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You risk permanent coat damage, especially in older dogs
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The topcoat may never grow back correctly, leaving patchy, uneven fur
Even if shaved, the dog will still shed—the hairs will just be shorter. And if the topcoat fails to regrow, you may end up needing to shave continuously, creating a long-term cycle of coat damage.
When Shaving May Be Necessary
The only appropriate time to shave a double-coated dog is in the case of severe matting, where brushing or de-shedding tools can’t safely remove the tangles. In those rare situations, shaving may be unavoidable. But outside of that, preserving the integrity of your dog’s natural coat is essential for their comfort and health.
How to Reduce Shedding Without Shaving
If shedding is the issue—and let’s be honest, with double-coated breeds, it always is—there are better solutions than shaving:
✔ Regular brushing to remove loose hair
✔ Professional deshedding treatments
✔ Omega-3 supplementation to support coat health, reduce dryness, and minimize shedding
Adding a high-quality omega supplement can make a noticeable difference in skin and coat health. If you're looking for support from the inside out, check out our Omega Pup soft chews. They’re designed to help maintain a healthy coat, reduce shedding, and keep your dog’s skin moisturized—all key benefits for double-coated breeds.
Final Thought
Shaving a double-coated dog doesn’t help—it harms. It compromises their ability to regulate temperature, protect their skin, and maintain a healthy coat. These breeds are designed by nature to thrive with their two-layer fur system intact. When in doubt, stick to proper grooming, regular brushing, and nutritional support to keep your dog comfortable and healthy.
If you want to support your dog’s coat from the inside out, explore Omega Pup for a safe, effective way to reduce shedding and promote a soft, healthy coat.
