Grooming a Double-Coated Dog: Brushing and Blowouts

Brush a double-coated dog once or twice a week with a slicker or pin brush, and add an undercoat rake every day or two when the coat "blows" in spring and fall (autumn). Brush right down to the skin. Don't shave a double coat unless your vet advises it: the undercoat helps protect against heat and cold, and often grows back unevenly.

A thick-coated spitz-type dog being brushed outdoors, a cloud of soft undercoat on the grass — Shedding season: brush outside if you can.

Which Dogs Have Double Coats?

A double coat has a soft, dense undercoat beneath longer outer hairs. Huskies, Malamutes, German Shepherds, Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies, Corgis, Pomeranians, Akitas and many mixes have one. If brushing pulls out fluffy, wool-like fur, your dog has an undercoat.

The Undercoat Rake and the Blowout

Brush outside if you can; there will be a lot of fur.
Work in sections, lifting the outer coat and raking the undercoat in the direction it grows.
Follow with a slicker brush, then a comb to check for missed tangles behind ears and in the "trousers".
Repeat every day or two until loose undercoat stops coming out.

Deshedding blades remove a lot quickly but can cut and thin the outer coat if overused; save them for shedding season and use gently.

Why Shaving Usually Backfires

The undercoat traps air, which insulates against both cold and heat, while the outer coat shields the skin from sun. Shaving removes that protection and can leave the coat patchy or slow to grow back. A bath and a thorough de-shed in spring does more for a hot dog than clippers. Your vet may need to clip an area for a medical reason; that's different.

Check the Skin Under the Fur

A thick coat can hide mats, damp patches and sore spots. Part the fur as you brush and look at the skin. Tight mats close to the skin are best removed by a groomer. Redness, a smell, lumps or a hot, damp patch are reasons to see your vet. See skin and coat care.

Tools for a Double Coat

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An undercoat rake does the heavy lifting in shedding season. A slicker brush handles everyday upkeep and a metal comb finds tangles. A detangling spray helps with knots, and a pet hair vacuum deals with the aftermath.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fur everywhere? These answers help.

How often should I brush a double-coated dog?

Once or twice a week most of the year, and every day or two when the coat is blowing.

Can I shave my double-coated dog in summer?

It's usually best not to. The coat helps protect against heat and sun. De-shed thoroughly and keep your dog cool instead.

Does diet affect shedding?

A complete, balanced diet supports a healthy coat, but no food stops a double coat from shedding. Brushing is the answer.