At SONO, the health and well-being of your dog is our top priority. One of the most common grooming myths we encounter is the idea that shaving a double-coated breed will help them stay cooler in the summer or reduce shedding. While this might seem logical at first, shaving a double-coated dog can actually harm their coat, skin, and overall health.

Here’s why we never shave double-coated breeds unless medically necessary, and what we recommend instead to keep your furry friend comfortable and healthy.

Double-coated breeds, such as Golden Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and Border Collies to name a few have two layers of fur:

1. The Undercoat: A soft, dense layer close to the skin that provides insulation by trapping air. It keeps your dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer by regulating body temperature.

2. The Guard Coat: A longer, coarser outer layer that protects against dirt, UV rays, and moisture.

These layers work together to create a natural defense system that adapts to different seasons and environments.

Shaving removes the protective outer layer and disrupts your dog’s natural cooling and insulating system. Without their guard coat, dogs are more vulnerable to overheating in the summer and freezing in the winter.

The outer coat acts as a shield against harmful UV rays and environmental irritants. When shaved, your dog’s skin becomes exposed, leading to a higher risk of sunburn, irritation, and potential skin infections.

Shaving can permanently damage the coat’s structure. When the hair grows back, it may become patchy, uneven, or lose its natural texture. In some cases, the undercoat may grow back thicker than the guard coat, leading to matting and reduced effectiveness of the coat’s functions.

While shaving might seem like a solution to shedding, it actually makes it worse in the long run. The regrowth process can cause an uneven shedding pattern that is harder to manage and maintain.

Dogs can feel uncomfortable and stressed after being shaved, especially if they’re not accustomed to having their coat altered.

Brushing your dog’s coat removes loose fur from the undercoat, prevents matting, and allows air to circulate through the coat. This keeps your dog cool and reduces shedding in your home.

At SONO, we offer professional grooming services designed for double-coated breeds. Our skilled groomers use techniques such as deshedding treatments and trimming (not shaving) to keep your dog’s coat healthy and manageable.

If you’re concerned about your dog overheating in the summer, focus on providing shade, fresh water, and cooling mats. Avoid walking them during the hottest parts of the day.

Double-coated dogs naturally shed their undercoat during spring and fall. Regular grooming during these seasons helps manage the shedding process and keeps your dog comfortable.

There are rare cases when shaving might be necessary, such as:

• Severe matting that cannot be removed without shaving.
• Medical procedures requiring a shaved area.
• Skin conditions where a veterinarian recommends shaving.

Even in these cases, our team ensures that shaving is done carefully and only when absolutely required.

Shaving a double-coated breed might seem like a quick fix, but it can do more harm than good. At SONO, we are committed to educating pet owners and providing grooming solutions that prioritize your dog’s health and comfort. By understanding your dog’s coat and its natural functions, you can help them stay happy, healthy, and stylish throughout the year.

If you have questions about grooming your double-coated dog, feel free to contact us or book an appointment. Together, we can keep your dog looking and feeling their best—without compromising their natural beauty!