Technique by coat type
Should a dog be shaved or trimmed?
Shaving and scissoring are not interchangeable. The safest technique follows the way a coat grows, its condition and what can be maintained comfortably.
3 min read · Reviewed 22 August 2026
Short answer
Continuously growing coats can often be clipped or cut. Healthy double coats are usually washed, dried and de-shed rather than shaved very short. Severe matting or a medical reason may change the plan.
Identify how the coat grows
Curly and silky growing coats require regular shortening. Wire coats may be stripped when condition and dog allow. Double coats use guard hair and undercoat for protection and should not automatically be shaved for summer.
- Growing coat: clipping or scissoring
- Wire coat: stripping may suit
- Double coat: washing and de-shedding first
Let welfare override style
A tight felted coat can pull with every movement and prevent safe brushing. A shorter clip may then be the kindest reset. Skin disease, wounds or unexplained hair loss require veterinary assessment.
- Do not force painful de-matting
- Discuss realistic length before starting
- Medical skin concerns go to a veterinarian
Maintain the chosen finish
Ask how often the coat needs brushing and professional work. A beautiful long finish only remains comfortable when a comb reaches the skin throughout the coat.
- Choose length for available home-care time
- Check friction and moisture zones
- Book the next visit before overgrowth
Editorial review
Written by the Trimsalon Tilburg editorial team and reviewed on 22 August 2026. This article provides coat-care information and does not replace veterinary diagnosis.
Sources used
Frequently asked questions
Practical details
Does shaving keep every dog cooler?
No. Coat type and condition matter; double coats are not routinely shaved simply for warm weather.
Will clipped hair always grow back normally?
Regrowth varies with coat, health and age, so discuss risks before a major change.
Keep reading
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