Number 1 RULE in Owning and Caring for your Double Coated Puppy / Dog
NEVER SHAVE A DOUBLE COATED DOG
(unless for emergency medical reasons and conditions)
Why?
Because the Fur acts as Insulator. Even if you see it as a thick blanket covering them. The double coating features of any dogs fur serves not only as protection but also as a temperature regulator for their body. It helps them cool down when the environment is too hot, and it also helps them warm up when the environment is too cold.
Double-coated dogs have two layers of fur:
A harsh topcoat and a soft undercoat. These two coats grow independently of one another and to different lengths. The soft undercoat is shorter and grows much faster than the topcoat. The undercoat sheds and is released twice a year. The topcoat is longer, and tends to grow slower than the undercoat. We advise against shaving any breeds that have a double coat.
False Myths
Shaving will NEVER lessen a Husky’s Shedding
Shaving will NEVER help your Husky Cool Down in Hot Summer Days
Shaving will lessen your Allergies
Shaving will NEVER MAKE your Husky’s Coat grow Thicker (it's all about the genes)
Reasons you should NOT shave double-coated dogs:
By shaving your double coated dog you are putting them at risk of irritation on the skin, they can become subseptable to sunburn and itching as the fur grows back, causing various skin disorders and excessive licking.
It does not make them shed less as they naturally only shed there undercoat twice a year. Shaving is a temporary fix with more con's than pro's.
It damages the growth of the coat and can take several years to regrow causing issues in between.
Does my Dog have a Double Coat?
Here is a list of all the double coated dogs that we find in the UAE
Golden and Labrador Retrievers
German and Australian Shepherds
Pomeranians
Siberian Huskies
Border Collies
Corgis
Cavalier King Charles
Beagles
Yorkshire Terrier
Wirehaired Fox Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Miniature Schnauzer
Havanese
Pomeranian
Shih Tzu
How to Groom your Double Coated Dog
Make sure that you brush your dog on a regular basis, its the ideal way to remove any dead hair from there coat. Remember they shed twice a year and around that time more vigorous brushing is advised and a visit to the groomers can help with the deshedding process. Regular brushing also helps to build a bond with your dog and allows the owner to be able to spot any problems such as any skin issues and or fur being matted in the undercoat.
Types of Brush
Slicker Brush
Large flat brush with extra long 1" hard pins that penetrate deep into the coat.
Pin Brush
This double brush for short, medium or long-haired cats and dogs is perfect for keeping your furry friend's coat tidy. It has stainless steel prongs with rounded tips that will not irritate the skin and will give a stimulating massage at the same time. The bristles will make your pet's coat shiny and also have restorative properties.
Deshedding Brush
A great brush to help when your dogs is shedding lots of hair and can remove up to 95% of the coat loose fur.
If you have any doubts about a double coat on your dog or would like more information on the grooming process, you can ask your vet or speak directly with Victorino at out Sports City Branch or Jerome at the Sustainable City Branch.