Why You Shouldn't Shave Your Double-Coated Dog (Yes, even in the Summer)

It’s that time of year again—temps are rising, and we're getting more and more requests to shave or cut double-coated dogs “short” for the summer. I get it—it seems logical to us humans that less hair = less heat. But when it comes to your dog’s coat, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Let’s talk about why shaving your double-coated dog can do more harm than good.

What Is a Double Coat?

Double-coated breeds have two layers of fur:

• A soft, insulating undercoat that helps regulate body temperature

• A coarser topcoat (guard hairs) that protects against the sun, dirt, moisture, and more

These two layers work together year-round to keep your dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Yes, really!

Breeds That Should Not Be Shaved

Unless your vet recommends it for a medical reason—or your pup is severely matted—double-coated dogs should not be shaved. This includes popular breeds like:

• Golden Retrievers

• Labradors

• German Shepherds

• Australian Shepherds

• Huskies

• Great Pyrenees

• Border Collies

• Newfoundlands

• Pomeranians

• Bernese Mountain Dogs

• Chows

• Samoyeds…and many more!

  
  

Why Shaving Is Harmful

Let’s break it down:

• It doesn’t make them cooler. Shaving removes the insulation your dog relies on to regulate body temperature. Without it, your dog is actually at greater risk of overheating or heatstroke.

• It increases sunburn and skin cancer risk. That thick coat protects your dog from harmful UV rays. Once shaved, they’re exposed—and their skin isn’t used to it.

• It doesn’t reduce shedding. Your dog will still shed. Now you’re just dealing with tiny, sharp hairs that get everywhere—think Velcro-level cling.

• It damages the coat. Shaving can permanently alter the texture and regrowth pattern of your dog’s coat. In some cases, it may never grow back the same… or at all.

• It removes a natural barrier. That double coat acts like armor against bugs, dirt, allergens, and moisture. Without it, your dog’s skin is left vulnerable to allergies, sunburn, and irritation.

  
  

So What Should You Do?

The answer: regular coat maintenance.

Routine grooming with a professional (like me!) or at home using proper tools and products can keep your double-coated dog feeling great and looking their best. A proper bath with de-shedding shampoo and conditioner, followed by a thorough blowout and brush-out, removes dead undercoat safely—without compromising your dog’s natural protection.

Remember: an impacted, unmaintained coat is just as dangerous as a shaved one.

A Final Note

Some groomers might say “sure” and shave your dog if you ask—but a groomer who truly cares will always prioritize your dog’s health over aesthetics. That’s what we stand for here at Groomer Has It.

Safety and health over vanity—always. <3