If you are a dog lover like us, you surely have noticed how some dogs of the same breed have different fur or pelage coats. In fact, some dogs have what is referred to as double-coated fur.
And in many cases, that depends on how the owners groom their pet. Among dog races, the double-coated breeds are the most sensitive to careless handling.
That’s why we want to give you some advice about how to groom your double-coated dog properly!
You can trust your dog will thank you with an incredible-looking fur coat and little fur shed!
Image Source
How do I know if my dog has a double coat of fur?
As you probably know, not all dogs are the same. And, when it comes to their fur and hair, this is quite evident.
Double coated fur is the most common type of fur among dogs, and there are many popular dog breeds with it. Those include Labradors, German Shepherds, Huskies, Collies, and Golden Retrievers are examples of double-coated dogs.
If you are unsure if your dog has a double coat of fur, keep on reading!
What exactly is double-coated fur?
One of the main differences between dog hair and dog fur is that hair grows permanently, while the fur has a predetermined length.
Double coats are composed of two layers of fur. The upper coat is the outer layer that we can see and protects your dog from sunrays and most of the harsh environmental conditions.
The underlying layer of fur (undercoat) is generally formed by thinner and softer fiber that keeps the dog warm or fresh depending on the weather.
Please be aware that double-coated dogs have natural processes for replacing their fur, like shedding their undercoat twice a year.
Double coat care
To properly take care of your dog’s double coat, you should follow these few steps:
- DO NOT SHAVE your dog: This is probably the fundamental mistake many people make. Shaving a double coat will interrupt the natural fur-replacing cycle, provoking health issues even for the rest of the dog’s life.
- The very best way to groom your double-coated dog is by combing his fur to de-shed the undercoat and remove any other loose hair on the coat.
- Products containing essences or chemicals that have been proven to be harmful to fur and skin should never be used. They can irritate the nose and lungs of your dog too.
Consider that shaving a double-coated dog may result in a loss of proper fur structure. This can lead to other health issues. Coats appear mixed in a messy mash-up, with no shine or bright, and even alopecia can appear.
If you love your pup (and we know you do!), please groom your double-coated dog properly!
