To Shave or Not to Shave

Shaving dogs is done for many reasons. There is definitely a time and place but more often than not, it is done for the wrong reason or to the determent of the pet.

Some general rules to think about:

1. Never shave a short coat
2. Shaving a dog hampers its ability to control its temperature, not help it.
3. In many breeds of dogs, when shaved, the coat will go dormant and not grow back normally.
4. Never back shave (against the grain)
5. Never go less than 1” if possible
6. Dematting should be considered first; shave only if dematting is not feasible. Learn techniques and products so you can do this smarter, not harder.

Why Shaving a Dog Often Does More Harm Than Good

Many owners ask for a shave-down in summer because they assume less hair means a cooler dog. In reality, a healthy coat works like insulation in both directions. It keeps warmth in during cold weather and keeps heat and sun out during hot weather. When that coat is removed, the skin is exposed directly to the sun, and the dog loses part of its natural cooling and protection system.

The coat is also part of the skin’s barrier. Hair and the sebum layer that covers it protect the skin from UV light, insects, moisture loss and irritants. Shaving too close removes that protection, which can leave the skin dry, irritated or sunburned.

Which Coats Should Never Be Shaved?

• Short coats (for example Labradors, Pugs, Beagles): there is nothing to gain from shaving, and the skin is left unprotected.
• Double coats with a dense undercoat: in many of these breeds the coat can go dormant after shaving and may grow back patchy, slowly or with a different texture.
• Coats with existing skin problems: clipping close over irritated, infected or sensitive skin can make inflammation worse.

When Shaving Is the Right Choice

There is a time and a place for clippers. Shaving can be the kindest option when:

• The coat is pelted or matted so tightly to the skin that dematting would be painful or unsafe for the pet.
• A veterinarian needs the area clipped for treatment, surgery or to manage a wound.
• A senior or medically fragile pet cannot tolerate the time a full dematting session requires.
• The owner truly cannot maintain the coat between grooms and a shorter, manageable length is the healthier long-term option.

How to Shave Safely When You Have To

• Clip with the direction of hair growth. Never back shave (against the grain), which cuts closer and causes clipper irritation.
• Leave at least 1 inch of coat whenever possible so the skin keeps some protection.
• Keep blades cool and sharp, and check the skin often for redness or clipper burn.
• Bathe and condition after clipping to restore hydration to the skin and remaining hair.
• Protect newly exposed skin from strong sun until the coat begins to grow back.

Try Dematting Before You Reach for the Clippers

Most mats form because the hair is dry. When the sebum layer is missing, the hair shaft opens up and strands lock together. Rehydrating the hair lets you release many mats without shaving. Iv San Bernard teaches a CLOSE-OPEN-CLOSE bathing technique (hydrating conditioner, then a mild shampoo, then hydrating conditioner) followed by an oil or silicone slip to help hair slide apart. Read the full method in our article on the clipper-free option for matted hair, and see our de-matting products.

Helping a Shaved Coat Grow Back

If a coat has already been shaved and is slow to return, focus on skin health first. Gentle, hydrating bathing with conditioner every time supports the skin and hair cycle. Our hair regrowth products include Mineral H Shampoo followed by pH Balance Conditioner. If hair does not return after several months, or you see bald patches, flaking or darkened skin, ask your veterinarian to rule out a medical cause such as a thyroid or hormonal problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does shaving a dog keep it cooler in summer?

Usually not. A healthy coat insulates against heat and protects the skin from sun. Shaving removes that protection and can make it harder for the dog to regulate its temperature.

Will my dog’s coat grow back after shaving?

Most short single coats grow back normally, but in many double-coated breeds the coat can go dormant and return slowly, patchy or with a different texture. Healthy skin care helps, and a veterinarian should check hair that does not regrow.

How short is too short when clipping a dog?

As a general rule, try not to go shorter than 1 inch when possible, and never shave against the grain. Closer clipping removes the skin’s protection and increases the risk of irritation and sunburn.

Is it better to demat or shave a matted dog?

Dematting should be considered first because it keeps the coat. Shave only when the mats are too tight to the skin to remove safely or comfortably.