DON'T Shave the Fluff!!!!

 Don’t Shave the Fluff: Why Shaving Double-Coated Dogs Can Do More Harm Than Good

Every year when temperatures rise, we hear it again:

“Can you shave my Husky so she stays cooler?”
“My Aussie is shedding like crazy—just shave it all off!”
“Won’t it help him cool down faster if he has no fur?”

We get it. The idea seems logical—less hair = less heat, right?

But when it comes to double-coated breeds, shaving them is one of the worst things you can do.
Here’s why—and what you should do instead.

What Is a Double-Coated Dog?

Double-coated dogs have two distinct layers of fur:

  • A soft, dense undercoat that acts like insulation—keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer
  • A coarse outer coat (guard hairs) that repels dirt, moisture, and harmful sun rays

Think of it like a built-in climate control system.
Breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, German Shepherds, Pomeranians, Great Pyrenees, and even some Chows fall into this category.

The Big Myth: “Shaving Helps Them Stay Cool”

It sounds logical… but it’s false.

That double coat doesn’t trap heat—it regulates it.
In summer, the undercoat sheds naturally to allow airflow and help keep your pup comfortable.

Shaving removes both layers, leaving your dog:

  • 🥵 More vulnerable to overheating (no insulation = faster heat absorption)
  • 🌞 Exposed to sunburn and UV damage
  • 😨 More anxious or itchy due to altered skin protection

And once shaved, the coat often doesn’t grow back the same.

The Real Risks of Shaving a Double Coat

❌ Coat Damage & Improper Regrowth

  • The undercoat grows back faster than the guard hairs.
  • This leads to a fuzzy, patchy, uneven coat that can trap heat and mats.
  • In many cases, the top coat never regains its original texture or protection.

❌ Skin Irritation & Burns

  • Without their natural protection, dogs are exposed to sunburn, bug bites, and contact dermatitis.

❌ Increased Shedding (Yes—More!)

  • The undercoat, when shaved, often grows in thicker and denser, causing even more shedding and compounding the problem you were trying to solve.

❌ Behavioral Changes

  • Dogs may become uncomfortable, itchy, or agitated post-shave.
  • Some become anxious or overheat more easily due to the change in insulation.

So What’s the Right Way to Help Them?

Instead of shaving, focus on coat maintenance and deshedding.
At Dino Suds N Scissors, we recommend:

✅ Routine Deshed Treatments
We use specialty shampoos, conditioners, high-velocity dryers, and tools to loosen and remove the undercoat safely—no shaving required.

✅ Regular Brushing Between Appointments
Especially during spring and fall (the heaviest shed seasons), brushing 2–3 times a week at home makes a big difference.

✅ Bath & Blowout Every 4–8 Weeks
Keeps shedding under control, removes impacted coat, and promotes healthy skin circulation.

✅ Nutrition & Skin Health Support
A balanced diet and supplements (like omega-3s) help reduce excessive shedding and improve coat quality.

Real Talk: We Know It’s Messy

Double-coated dogs shed.
It’s a fact.
But shaving doesn’t solve the problem—it makes it worse in the long run.

Instead of going for the clippers, trust a grooming routine built around:
✨ Education
✨ Coat science
✨ Long-term health & comfort

Still Want to Shave?

We won’t.
At Dino Suds N Scissors, we have a firm no-shaving policy for double-coated dogs (except in extreme medical or matting cases).

Because your dog deserves better than short-term solutions with long-term damage.

We’re not here to do what’s easy—we’re here to do what’s right.

Your dog’s coat isn’t a burden—it’s part of their biology.
And when cared for correctly, it’s a beautiful, functional feature that keeps them safe, comfortable, and healthy.

Have questions? Not sure if your dog is double-coated?
📲 Message us—we’re happy to chat and guide you on the best routine.

✨ Don’t shave the fluff—embrace it with care.


#vernalutah #dontshavethedog #doublecoateddogs #doggroomingtips #dinosudsandscissors #deshedseason #groomertruths #petcareeducation

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