It is our responsibility as responsible groomers to advise our customers on good grooming practice and coat care. Certain breeds have a thick double coat that can easily become matted. While you may be tempted to shave your double coated dog, it is not recommended as part of the grooming process.
Double coated dogs have coats that can be damaged through clipping and shaving. When the hair is groomed too short, the hair may grow back fuzzy with a wiry texture. Another problem is that the double coat protects the dog from both heat and cold. If the coat is shaved too short during hot weather, it can actually make it harder for the dog to stay cool.
In some cases, shaving a dog too short can lead to post-clipping alopecia. Post-clipping alopecia is when the hair follicles become damaged and the hair does not grow back for six to twelve months.
Your double coated dog needs regular grooming and brushing on a daily basis. You will need to brush your pet for at least 15 minutes each day to prevent the hair from matting.
Twice a week, brush the coat with a curved back slicker brush, holding the fur in one hand and brushing with the other. This prevents pulling the hair. Daily brushing with a regular bristle brush through the rest of the week will keep the coat from matting and help remove dead hair.