Well-groomed from head to paw – this is how dogs not only look good but also feel comfortable all over. We provide tips for coat care in dogs.

Coat Care in Dogs: A Matter of Type

With over 300 different dog breeds, there are also many different coat types. Over centuries, dogs’ coats have adapted to various requirements. In many dogs, the coat consists of guard hairs and insulating undercoat.

The undercoat can be very lush, for example in breeds like the Samoyed. Other dogs, such as Dalmatians, have little or no undercoat. Depending on hair structure, coat care varies.

Stock-Haired Dogs – The Prototype

Stock hair is considered the prototype of dog fur – even the wolf has stock hair. Characteristic of this type is the presence of a substantial undercoat alongside the guard hairs.

In spring, dogs shed a significant portion of it, resulting in heavy shedding, and in autumn, there is a coat change towards thicker winter fur. During these times, dogs require especially thorough coat care.

Typical examples of stock-haired dogs include the German Shepherd. Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Spitz breeds, and all sled dogs also have stock hair. “Short stock hair” has a length of up to four centimeters. “Long stock hair” can be up to ten centimeters long. The undercoat can reach the same length.

Short-Haired Dogs Mean Little Maintenance

Smooth hair – also known as “short hair” – refers to short, smooth fur with little or no undercoat. Since the coat is almost entirely made up of guard hairs, the coat change is mild. The dog loses hair throughout the year but relatively little. Breeds like the Boxer or Pinscher fall into the category of short-haired dogs.

Long Hair – Allocate More Time for Dog Coat Care

The name says it all: Long-haired dogs are recognized by their long fur. We differentiate between long-haired dogs with a lot of undercoat and those with little.

Most long-haired hunting dogs, such as the Irish Red Setter, have little undercoat. This requires regular brushing, which is not very time-consuming.

If long-haired dogs with lengthy fur also have a lot of undercoat, be prepared to spend more time on coat care! This coat type is prone to matting. Examples include dogs like the Bobtail or Tibetan Terrier.

Curls Due to Frizzy Hair

The most famous representative of “wavy-haired” dogs is the Poodle, whose curls cover the entire body. This category also includes water dogs like the Barbet. Wavy-haired dogs are always long-haired; the fur consists almost entirely of soft undercoat, which hardly sheds.

There is no coat change. Therefore, these dogs require regular trimming. Ear care is also crucial: for some curly-haired dogs, it is necessary to regularly remove hair from the ear canals.

Wire Hair – Robust Fur for Woodland and Fields

The fur of wire-haired dogs is coarse, water-resistant, and often comes with a lush undercoat. The German Wirehaired Pointer even has this coat characteristic embedded in its breed name. Schnauzers, Border Terriers, and many other terriers also have wire hair. The guard hairs of these dogs do not shed on their own, requiring trimming.

Rare “Special Coats”

Naked dogs like the Chinese Crested have minimal fur, making the care of these dogs relatively easy. However, on sunny days, sun protection may be necessary.

Another unique coat type belongs to the corded-haired dogs, such as the Puli. Their coat, much like curly fur, is primarily composed of undercoat. Due to its thick, soft structure, it naturally forms cords after a few centimeters of growth, providing optimal insulation without harming the skin. Owners of corded-haired dogs should seek advice from breeders or dog groomers for optimal coat care.

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Combing and Brushing Support Dog Coat Care

Whether curly, wire-haired, or short-haired: coat care is beneficial for every dog. Combing and brushing remove dead hair from the skin, preventing matting. Simultaneously, they act as a small massage, enhancing blood circulation. Additionally, regular coat care strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

But how often should a dog be brushed? Dogs with long, silky fur like the Havanese require coat care every one to two days. Thoroughly brushing a Bobtail can take about an hour and should be done once a week. Utilize regular coat care sessions to check the ears and claws.

The key to coat care: Get the dog used to brushing

It is easiest to accustom the puppy to regular coat care. A good time for brushing training is when the puppy is tired from playing or a walk. Choose a quiet place and time, and use a soft puppy brush or a natural hairbrush. Limit the initial grooming sessions to one to two minutes and praise the four-legged friend afterward.

It is essential for the dog to learn two things: coat care is a pleasant ritual, and the two-legged one decides when it’s done. Always end the little wellness session with ample praise and a treat if the dog has cooperated.

Which Brush for Which Dog Coat?

Classic short and stock hair can be maintained with combs or massage brushes. Those who think Poodles and similar breeds need little coat care are mistaken: these dogs can also develop matting! For example, under the armpits or in the hindquarters. In addition to a comb, a slicker brush helps. Also, they require regular grooming. Wire-haired dogs, especially, benefit from slicker brushes that remove dead hair.

For all coat types: In case of small matting, a dematting tool can help. For larger mats, scissors are necessary.

The Furminator is popular among many dog owners. It is perfect for removing loose undercoat. It is available for both long and short-haired dogs. However, it is not a substitute for trimming and is not suitable for dogs without an undercoat.

Special Care Needs in Dog Coat Care

Combing or brushing forms the basis of regular coat care, but some breeds have higher demands: regular trimming and shearing are necessary for them.

Trimming

“Trimming” refers to the plucking of dead hair with the fingers. Rough-haired dogs, in particular, depend on this because their hair does not shed on its own. Trimming is essential to prevent skin irritations and infections, which can quickly develop under dead fur.

This specific type of coat care should be done every eight to twelve weeks. Those who value the breed-specific look need a lot of practice or an expert by their side.

Shearing

If the dog doesn’t lose hair, is it easy to care for? Usually not, as these dogs need shearing every two to three months; otherwise, the fur becomes too long, leading to matting and skin infections.

Dogs need to get used to the sound of the clipper – start in puppyhood and with a lot of positive reinforcement! Often, manual trimming is required around the head and paws. In doubt, leave shearing to a dog groomer.

Visit to the Dog Groomer

Even those who want to trim and shear themselves should learn it from an expert. It is best to ask the breeder of your dog – many breeders provide tips on dog care to their buyers.

If you don’t want to trim and shear yourself, visit a dog groomer. Again, it is advisable to start training with the puppy. Many dog groomers offer a trial session for puppies, focusing on positive associations and minor coat corrections.

When Should You Bathe the Dog?

The rule for bathing dogs is: as often as necessary, as little as possible. Often, dirt can be brushed out of the dog’s coat when it is dry. Infrequent bathing protects the dog’s skin from irritation. Always use dog shampoo, as it is tailored to the pH of the dog’s skin. Bathing the dog is necessary, for example, in the following situations:

Healthy Coat Thanks to Balanced Nutrition

A crucial prerequisite for a shiny coat is balanced nutrition. Pay attention to high-quality proteins, meaning a high meat content, and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. If the dog’s fur looks dull or falls out excessively, consult a veterinarian.