Double-Coated Dog Grooming: Complete Care Guide

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Corgis and many other breeds have double coats. These coats are built to protect against both cold and heat, but they produce impressive amounts of fur. Proper care keeps the coat functioning and your house habitable.

How a double coat works

The undercoat is soft, dense and wooly. It traps air next to the skin for insulation. The guard hairs are longer and stiffer, protecting against sun, water and dirt. Together they regulate temperature, and a clean, well-brushed coat does this best. See how to identify your dog's coat type.

Shedding cycles

Most double-coated dogs shed lightly all year and heavily twice a year, usually in spring and autumn, when they "blow coat". During this time clumps of undercoat come out. See dog blowing coat for survival tips. Intact females may also blow coat after heat cycles or pregnancy.

Brushing basics

• Frequency: Two to three times a week for most dogs, daily during heavy shedding.
• Tools: A slicker brush, an undercoat rake and a wide-toothed comb. See best slicker brushes and how to use an undercoat rake.
• Technique: Work in sections, brushing in the direction of hair growth, down to the skin. Use line brushing for thick coats.
• Check with a comb. If the comb passes through to the skin, you are done.

See how to brush a dog properly.

Bathing

Bathe every six to eight weeks, or when dirty. Wet the coat thoroughly, since water must penetrate the dense undercoat. Use dog shampoo, rinse until the water runs clear and use a conditioner if helpful. Drying is crucial. A damp undercoat can cause hot spots and smell. A high-velocity dryer helps blow out loose undercoat. See best high-velocity dryers and how to dry a dog after a bath.

Do not shave

Many owners shave double-coated dogs in summer, believing it keeps them cooler. In fact the coat insulates against heat, and shaving removes protection from sunburn. Shaved coats may grow back patchy, with a different texture, or take a long time. See should you shave a double-coated dog. Shaving is appropriate only for medical reasons, as directed by a vet.

Trimming

Light tidying is fine. Trim hair around paws, sanitary areas and any overgrown feathering. Avoid cutting the main coat.

Seasonal tips

• Summer: Brush regularly to remove dead undercoat and let air flow. Provide shade and water. See summer grooming tips.
• Winter: Keep the coat clean and brushed so it insulates well. See winter grooming tips.

Health checks

While brushing, check for hot spots, parasites, lumps and skin problems. Thick coats can hide issues. See also how to remove mats for tangles behind the ears and in the feathering.

Common mistakes

• Brushing only the top coat
• Using a rake too hard
• Bathing without thorough drying
• Shaving to reduce shedding
• Skipping regular brushing and letting mats form

Professional help

A groomer can offer deshedding treatments with a blow-out and bath. They are useful during heavy shedding or for owners with limited time. See how to choose a professional dog groomer.

The takeaway

Brush often, bath and dry well and leave the coat intact. A healthy double coat is a natural climate control system.