PET SHAVING: Should I have my Dog Shaved?
On a day where the sun burns your skin, and the heat makes you melt, it may be tempting to shave your dog.
Just look at that poor thing! Panting, tongue out and drooling.
What a pitiful sight. Add to that- if your dog’s got a thick coat, it must feel even worse.
So what exactly should you do? Call up your groomer and set a shaving appointment?
Well, not exactly.
PET SHAVING: Double and Single Coated Dog Fur
Do consider a few things. Each breed of dog has different fur types. Many dog breeds have what is called a “doable-coat” such as golden retrievers, german shepherds, pomeranians and samoyeds to name a few.
You might be wondering what a double coat is. However, if you are aware of its existence, you’d know that dogs with this fur type have an inner coat which acts as an insulating layer. This inner coat helps dogs regulate their temperature whether in heat or in cold.
In the hotter weather, a bit of this insulating layer is shed, meaning that air can be caught between the 2 layers of fur. In the cold, they keep the inner layer for extra warmth.
What happens when you shave this layer? Well, for one thing it can cause damage in the long-run.
If you shave a double-coated dog’s fur down to the skin, it decreases their protection to the seasons, and causes improper hair growth.
But what about single-coated dogs? Dogs with only one layer of fur?
For dogs such as poodles, maltese, boxers and greyhounds, you mustn’t shave down to their skin either. For both fur types, vets recommend at least one inch to protect them from sunburn or keep them warm on cool evenings.
The only situation when you should completely shave your dog’s fur-whether double coated or single coated, is when their fur is so matted that brushing gets you nowhere. But hopefully, you’re too much of a good pet owner for that.
How about declawing are you considering it? Here’s why I do not support declawing.
Pet Owners, if you still need guidance on your pet’s grooming do not hesitate to bring in your pet at Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Message us here on our Facebook or Instagram account or call to book your appointment 0908-896-7113 | 8896-6386 | 8896-2860 or email us for further information at makatidogandcathospital@gmail.com.
Enjoy peace of mind,
Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Pet Happiness Expert
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC