Should You Shave a Double-Coated Dog in Florida?
Most groomers advise against shaving a double-coated dog just for the heat: the coat helps protect skin from sun. A de-shedding service removes loose undercoat instead. Western Grooming's Deputy De-Shedding includes a deep bath, high-velocity drying and undercoat removal at your home, from $100. Severely matted coats may still need a shave-down.
What a double coat is
A double-coated dog has two kinds of hair: a short, soft, dense undercoat close to the skin, and a layer of longer, tougher guard hairs on top. It is the typical coat of breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds.
The undercoat renews itself and comes loose in large amounts, especially when the seasons change. If it is not removed, it gets trapped, your dog sheds all over the house and the coat starts to pack down.
Why shaving for heat usually isn't the answer
It makes sense to think a dog without hair will feel cooler. Still, many groomers recommend not shaving a double-coated dog just for the heat: the coat is part of how they protect themselves, and the outer layer helps shield the skin from the sun.
What does help is removing the loose undercoat that builds up, so air can move through the coat. Every dog is different, so if you have questions about your dog's health or skin, ask your veterinarian.
What de-shedding does (Deputy De-Shedding)
Our Deputy De-Shedding is designed for double-coated breeds and includes:
- Deep bath with hypoallergenic shampoo (Biogance Elixir)
- De-shedding treatment
- High-velocity drying
- Extensive coat blowout & brushing
- Deep undercoat removal
- Nail trim & filing
- Ear cleaning
- Paw care
- Basic cosmetic teeth brushing (where applicable)
- Fragrance
- Bandana/bow
When a shave-down is the kind option
Sometimes shaving is the kindest choice for the dog: when the coat has severe mats close to the skin. Forcing a brush through a coat like that is uncomfortable, and a shave-down lets them start fresh with healthy hair.
In those cases there may be an extra charge. We always check the coat before we start and walk you through the options.
5 signs your dog needs grooming
Keeping your dog comfortable in Florida heat
- Walk early in the morning or late in the evening, when it is cooler.
- Make sure there is always fresh water and shade, in the yard too.
- Before a walk, touch the pavement with the back of your hand: if it is too hot for you, it is too hot for their paws.
- Never leave your dog in the car, not even for a few minutes.
- Dry your dog well after the lawn or the pool; moisture trapped in the undercoat irritates the skin.
Guide: when your lawn irritates your dog’s skin
Price & how often
Deputy De-Shedding is priced by your dog's weight:
| Size | Regular price | Wrangler, every 4 weeks | Trail Boss, every 2 weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| S (0–15 lb) | $100 | $92 | $85 |
| M (16–30 lb) | $139 | $128 | $118 |
| ML (31–45 lb) | $160 | $147 | $136 |
| L (46–60 lb) | $180 | $166 | $153 |
| XL (61–75 lb) | $200 | $184 | $170 |
| XXL (76–90 lb) | $220 | $202 | $187 |
| Giant (91+ lb) | $240 | $221 | $204 |
How often depends on your dog's coat and the time of year; your groomer will recommend what works for them. If you de-shed regularly, our memberships save you up to 15% per visit, and with both plans you pay for 12 grooms and the 13th is free.