Double Coats & Groomouts

Double coats need to be thoroughly saturated, with water and shampoo reaching through the outer coat to the skin. A hydrobath can be particularly useful for dense coats, helping distribute products and loosen dirt and undercoat.

Work methodically through the dog, paying attention to the feet, legs, chest, belly and areas where dirt and grease accumulate. A deep-cleansing shampoo may be useful for removing heavy grime and product build-up, while a second shampoo helps ensure the coat is thoroughly clean.

Specialised deshedding shampoos can assist with releasing loose undercoat during bathing, reducing the amount of brushing required afterwards.

Rinse carefully, working through the coat to ensure shampoo is removed from both layers. Thorough cleansing makes the subsequent drying and groom-out considerably easier.

Conditioning is an essential part of maintaining healthy double coats. Appropriate conditioners help restore manageability, improve the condition of the hair and reduce friction during drying and brushing.

Choose a conditioner suited to the coat's texture, condition and intended finish. Fuller, standing coats may benefit from lighter formulations, while longer furnishings and areas prone to tangling may need additional conditioning.

Conditioning and deshedding products can also help loosen dead undercoat. A rubber curry brush may be useful for distributing conditioner through shorter double coats and releasing loose hair while the coat is wet.

The more loose undercoat that can be released during bathing and drying, the less mechanical brushing may be required afterwards.

Rinse thoroughly according to the product's directions.

Thorough drying is particularly important for double coats, where moisture can remain trapped beneath an apparently dry outer layer.

A high-velocity dryer helps separate the coat, remove excess water and release loose undercoat. Work systematically in sections, directing airflow towards the roots and drying from the skin outwards.

For longer or denser coats, line drying allows the groomer to open the coat with one hand and direct airflow into the exposed section. Continue progressively through the coat, ensuring each area is thoroughly dry before moving on.

Adjust the nozzle and airflow to suit the coat's length and density. Concentrated airflow can be effective for removing moisture, but may create tangles in longer, softer coats. A more open nozzle provides gentler airflow where needed.

As the coat approaches dryness, brushing and combing can be introduced to help separate the hair and remove remaining loose undercoat. A hands-free dryer (such as a neck or stand dryer) may be useful during this finishing stage.

Check that the coat is completely dry through to the skin, particularly around the chest, hindquarters and other dense areas. Avoid excessive heat and adjust the process according to the dog's comfort and tolerance.

Effective deshedding begins with thorough bathing, conditioning and drying. These processes help loosen and release undercoat, reducing the amount of mechanical brushing required afterwards.

Once the coat is dry, work through it systematically using tools appropriate to its length, density and texture. Longer coats may benefit from line brushing with a pin brush and comb, while shorter double coats often respond well to a rubber curry brush.

Work in small sections, gradually exposing the coat beneath. Progress from wider-toothed tools to finer ones where appropriate, rather than forcing a fine comb through compacted hair.

Avoid repeatedly brushing the same area or using excessive pressure, particularly where the skin is sensitive or the coat is already thin.

The aim is not to remove every loose hair. Work until the majority of shedding undercoat has been released, taking the dog's comfort, skin condition and tolerance into account. Excessive brushing can damage healthy hair and irritate the skin without providing meaningful additional benefit.

Double coats consist of an outer layer of guard hairs and a softer undercoat. These layers have different growth and shedding cycles, with the undercoat providing insulation and the outer coat contributing protection from the environment.

Many double-coated dogs experience periods of increased shedding, often referred to as blowing coat or moulting. Seasonal changes, daylight hours, hormones and individual coat characteristics all influence these cycles.

During a heavy shed, large amounts of undercoat may loosen and become trapped within the surrounding hair. Without appropriate maintenance, this can lead to compaction, tangling and reduced airflow through the coat.

Regular brushing, thorough bathing and effective drying help remove released undercoat while preserving the healthy outer coat.

Not every double-coated dog sheds in the same way or at the same rate. Coat density, breed characteristics, age and individual health all influence the amount of maintenance required.

A double coat has several important functions. The outer guard hairs help protect the skin from sunlight, weather and environmental exposure, while the undercoat contributes insulation. Together, these layers help the dog manage changing conditions.

Removing the coat with clippers changes this natural structure and reduces the protection it provides. Shaving also does not stop shedding; it simply makes the shed hairs shorter.

Some double-coated dogs experience changes in coat texture, colour or regrowth following clipping. Regrowth may be uneven or prolonged, particularly in dogs with certain coat types or underlying health conditions. Although permanent changes are possible, they are not inevitable.

A well-maintained double coat, with loose undercoat removed, allows air to move more freely through the hair. However, coat management is only one part of keeping a dog comfortable in warm weather. Access to shade, water, ventilation and appropriate environmental temperatures remains essential.

There are circumstances where clipping may be appropriate, including medical needs, severe matting, welfare concerns or situations where an elderly or unwell dog cannot comfortably tolerate extensive coat maintenance.

Where clipping is being considered, discuss the potential outcomes with the owner, explain the limitations and document informed consent. This may include acknowledging that:

• Coat regrowth cannot be guaranteed to return to its previous appearance or texture.

• Clipping may cause temporary skin irritation.

• Shaving does not necessarily make the dog more comfortable in hot weather.

• Shaving does not prevent shedding.

The dog's immediate welfare and individual circumstances should guide the decision rather than applying an absolute rule to every double-coated dog.

Once drying and deshedding are complete, check the coat thoroughly for remaining moisture, tangles and compacted undercoat.

Pay particular attention to the chest, hindquarters, behind the ears and other dense areas. Use a comb to check that the hair is separated and manageable without unnecessary pulling.

The finished coat should be clean, thoroughly dry and free of excessive loose undercoat, with its natural structure and appearance preserved.

A successful groom is not measured by how much hair has been removed, but by the condition of the coat and the comfort of the dog.