Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Will Shaving a Dog Help With Shedding? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

a shetland sheepdog shedding a lot

It’s getting hot outside, and your dog is showing signs of being affected by the heat. They are panting excessively and are shedding more often. You want to do something to cool off your dog while reducing that shed hair in your home.

Would shaving your dog help them cool down? The short answer is no, it wouldn’t help and it’s not a good idea to shave your dog. Keep reading to learn more.

divider single dog paw oct 2024

Why You Shouldn’t Shave Your Dog’s Coat

Dogs can have double coats or single coats, but either way, a dog’s coat should never be shaved. It works to regulate the dog’s body temperature in both cold and hot weather. Without their coat, a dog could freeze or overheat, depending on the time of year.

For double-coated dogs, their inner hair sheds while their outer hair creates air between the two layers, which is what cools them off.

For both double- and single-coated dogs, their coats function as an insulator. Some single-coated dogs, like Poodles, can benefit from a cut or even a shave. But there should still be at least 1 inch of hair left afterward. This will help ensure that they can regulate their body temperature during extreme weather.

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your pet, seek veterinary advice for the best course of action.

Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1


divider single dog paw oct 2024

Ways to Reduce Shedding Without Shaving Your Dog

woman pouring shampoo on hand, washing her dog in bathtub
Image Credit: RossHelen, Shutterstock

Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to reduce your dog’s shedding without shaving their coat. First, focus on combing or brushing them. Try to groom your dog’s coat two or three times a day during the shedding season.

If you can, do it outside so the shed hair can fly away. Also, consider investing in a de-shedding tool that connects to your vacuum and sucks away fur as it combs the coat.

Other options include:
  • Bathe your dog at least once a week to get rid of extra fur and dander.
  • If your dog has a single coat, consider taking them to the groomer for a trim.
  • Schedule a checkup with your veterinarian to ensure that no health problems are contributing to excessive shedding.
  • Give your dog a quick rubdown with your hands every time you enter your home together.

Our Favorite Products

Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner makes the world of a difference when grooming your pup. Our favorite products are the duo by Hepper. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat. The Pet Conditioner works at eliminating tangles and taming frizz and static. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent. 

Image Product Details
Hepper Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Hepper Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
  • Safe for Dogs & Cats
  • Lightly Scented
  • Soothing Oatmeal
  • Hepper Pet Conditioner Hepper Pet Conditioner
  • Detangles and reduces friction
  • Nourishing, coconut-based formula
  • pH balanced
  • At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!

     

    divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

    Ways to Cool Your Dog Off Without Shaving Them

    Cavapoo eating Ice Cube
    Image Credit: Scot Col, Shutterstock

    Keeping your dog cool during the summer months can be tricky, but it’s far from impossible. First, bring them inside where the air conditioner is running. If you’re not at home, find a tree to hang out under and give them water to drink. You can even splash water on their coat for a temporary cooling effect.

    Here are a few other things that you can do:
    • Fill a small kiddie pool with cool water so your dog can splash around in it.
    • Trim your dog’s paws and ears to get rid of excess hair.
    • Take frequent breaks during long walks and while at the dog park.
    • Head outside for exercise during the early morning or evening hours, whenever it’s the coolest outside.
    • Put a few ice cubes in your dog’s water dish.

    divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

    Conclusion

    It’s never a good idea to shave your dog’s coat to try to reduce shedding or to keep them cool when it’s hot outside. Instead, utilize the techniques and tactics outlined here to address these problems.

    It’s important to remember that you can’t eliminate shedding, so don’t get frustrated with your dog when it happens.


    Featured Image Credit: Filmbildfabrik, Shutterstock

    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) for Dogs: Big Benefits for Osteoarthritis (Vet Answer)

    Avocado or soybean unsaponifiables are a natural supplement derived from avocados and soybeans. They contain several useful compounds, including fat-soluble vitamins and phytosterols....

    What Breed of Dog Is Santa’s Little Helper? The Simpsons’ Dog

    If you’ve ever watched “The Simpsons,” chances are that you’ve seen Santa’s Little Helper at some point. He’s the family’s beloved pup and...

    Dog-Friendly Portland: 25 Great Things to Do With Your Pooch

    Vacationing with your favorite canine companion will always be more fun than vacationing on your own. However, bringing your pup when you travel...

    Can a Dog’s Nose Get Sunburned? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

    Most of us understand the dangers of sunburn when it comes to humans. It’s not only painful, but it enhances the likelihood of...

    More related

    Hyperkeratosis in Dogs: Guide, Symptoms & Treatment (Vet Answer)

    Canine hyperkeratosis is a skin condition in which dogs produce too much keratin. Keratin is one of the most important structural proteins found...

    The 3-3-3 Rule for Dogs: What Are the Phases of Adoption? (Vet-Approved)

    Making the decision to adopt a dog is often life-changing and worthwhile for both you and your new dog. While dogs are known...

    15 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Austin, Texas, You Can Visit in 2025

    Having your favorite canine join you while you’re out and about is a great time, but in most places, your pup will have...

    PetArmor Plus vs Frontline Plus Flea Treatment: The Differences (Vet Answer)

    Fleas are the number one parasite that veterinarians see in practice. The most common type of flea is Ctenocephalides felis (the cat flea)...

    Keep reading

    Aldi Pure Being Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary Aldi Pure Being is made with meat as the main ingredient in their foods. The dog food is an excellent option for pet owners on a budget. You can rest assured that the food is balanced and nutritious...

    Dogster_Aldi Pure Being Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Greek Yogurt? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

    Dogs are known for wanting whatever their human has, and if you are a dog owner, you will know what we are referring to! No matter what is on your plate, your dog will be at your feet, with its...

    Can Dogs Eat_Greek Yogurt

    What Human Foods Can I Feed My Diabetic Dog? 6 Vet-Approved Options

    Dogs can get diabetes just like humans can. It typically happens when they’re older, but if your pooch isn’t in good health, it can happen at any time. Providing your dog with a quality diet and ensuring that they get...

    dog eating carrot

    Thanksgiving Food for Dogs: Safe Options & What to Avoid (Vet Verified)

    Thanksgiving is an important holiday for many families and friends in various countries. Since we count our dogs as members of our families, it’s only natural that we want to include them on this special day. For most families, Thanksgiving...

    family-with-dog-celebrating-thanksgiving

    Retriever Dog Food Review 2025: Pros, Cons and Recalls

    Review Summary Introduction There are many smaller dog food brands that get overlooked and are rarely discussed, and Retriever dog food is one of those. Their recipes are produced in the United States and have been around for a good...

    Dogster_Retriever Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Coconut? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

    Coconut and coconut oil are not only tasty treats but they are also said to have health benefits, especially for people. However, does that mean it’s okay to feed this treat to your dog? Coconut is not toxic to dogs...

    Can Dogs Eat Coconut

    What Is Fish Meal in Dog Food? Vet-Approved Safety Facts & FAQ

    If you’re a dog owner who likes to read pet food labels, you’ll probably find quite a few unfamiliar ingredients listed. One such product is fish meal, commonly found in allergy-friendly diets. But what is fish meal in dog food,...

    Wet and dry pet food made of natural ingredients

    9 Best Automatic Dog Feeders in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Automatic feeders are an excellent option for dog owners. They allow your dog to get meals at routine intervals throughout the day and night, even if you’re not home. They are a great option if you have an unusual schedule...

    dog automatic feeder