14/07/2026
I have been asked a few times in the hot weather if shaving a double coated dog would make them cooler and the answer is No, A dog's coat is much more than just fur. It plays an important role in regulating body temperature throughout the year.
When temperatures rise, many owners believe removing as much coat as possible will help their dog stay comfortable. While this may seem logical, the reality is that shaving is not always the best solution—particularly for double-coated breeds.
Double-coated breeds:
Golden Retrievers
Border Collies
German Shepherds
Huskies
Newfoundlands
Samoyeds
Above are some double coated breeds that have a coat designed to provide insulation. During summer, the undercoat helps protect against heat while the top coat shields the skin from harmful UV rays.
Removing this natural protection can actually make it harder for some dogs to regulate their body temperature.
Why Shaving Can Cause Problems
Unless medically necessary, extreme matting or recommended for specific coat types, shaving a double-coated dog may lead to several issues.
These include:
-Increased risk of sunburn
-Greater exposure to insect bites
-Reduced natural insulation from heat
-Patchy or uneven coat regrowth
-Permanent coat damage in some breeds
-Changes to coat texture and colour
Many owners are surprised to learn that a shorter coat does not automatically mean a cooler dog.