Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and coats. From silky smooth to curly, a dog’s coat isn’t just for show, it’s their first line of defense against the elements. But different dog coat types mean different care routines, shedding surprises, and grooming needs.
Giulia D'Ignazio, a professional dog groomer and owner of Brandy's Canine Grooming, notes that one of the biggest mistakes pet parents make is shaving double-coated dogs. Conversely, another common mistake is not grooming dogs in the colder months.
Knowing what kind of coat your dog has is important for making these sorts of grooming decisions. Knowing how to care for their fur can make all the difference in keeping them comfortable and happy.
The Six Main Dog Coat Types
1. Smooth
Smooth-coated dogs have short, sleek fur that lies flat against their bodies. Dogs like Beagles and Boxers fall into this category. This coat type is low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean it is shed-free. These pups benefit from weekly brushing to keep shedding under control and maintain that glossy shine.
A quick wipe with Earth Rated’s Grooming Wipes works well on these coats and keeps dogs looking fresh and clean.
2. Double
Double-coated dog breeds tend to be fluffy, such as Huskies and Golden Retrievers. These dogs have a dense undercoat for insulation and a longer topcoat for protection. This combination makes them great for colder climates, but it also means that they shed…a lot.
Regular brushing (at least twice a week) is helpful to prevent matting and reduce shedding. A de-shedding tool, like an undercoat rake, can work wonders during heavy shedding seasons.
“During winter months, double-coated dogs might tend to shed less but it is still important to brush them out,” explains Giulia. “Snow also creates more knots, so it’s important to brush their legs and stomach after walks.”
3. Wire
Many terrier breeds have a wiry coat. This rough, bristly coat repels dirt and water. Their coat needs occasional hand-stripping or clipping to remove dead hairs and keep it looking tidy.
Brushing once or twice a week helps prevent tangles and keeps their wiry texture in top shape. These pups are typically considered low-maintenance and may shed less than other breeds.
4. Curly
Curly-coated dog breeds include the Poodle, Doodle and the Bichon Frise. These canines typically shed very little. But, these curly-coated dogs still require frequent grooming to avoid mats. They may also require regular clips at your local dog groomer to keep their coat under control.
5. Long
Long-haired dog breeds include the Afghan Hound and Shih Tzu. These dogs are low shedders compared to other breeds. But, they can be very prone to tangles and matting, so regular brushing is necessary. These dogs often need regular baths to keep their coats clean and shiny, too.
6. Hairless
Very few breeds are hairless, but the most common one is the Chinese Crested. Hairless dogs may seem like a low-maintenance breed, but their skin needs extra attention. Without fur to protect them, they’re more prone to sunburn and dryness. Regular moisturizing and dog-safe sunscreen applications are recommended to keep their skin soft and healthy.
Without their coat to protect them, hairless dogs can be more prone to skin issues such as infection and irritation.
Why Coat Types Matter for Grooming
A dog’s coat type will dictate their grooming needs. Double coats have seasonal “blowouts” which require extra attention in the spring and fall when they tend to shed more. Whereas, long-haired dogs may need extra trimming in the winter months, when snow may stick to their fur.
Grooming routines also depend on coat length and texture. Smooth coats need a quick weekly brush, but long-haired dogs may require daily detangling. Additionally, wire-haired dog breeds need to have their coats clipped and curly coats will need specialized brushes to maintain their unique textures.
Choosing the Right Products for Each Coat Type
Having the right tools can make all the difference when you’re grooming your dog. Here’s a quick guide to the best grooming products for each coat type:
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Smooth coats: Soft-bristle brushes, grooming mitts, and Earth Rated’s Short Coat 3-in-1 Dog Shampoo.
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Double coats: Deshedding tools, undercoat rake, and Earth Rated’s Double Coat 3-in-1 Dog Shampoo. Giulia notes “a deshedding shampoo works best for heavy shedders.”
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Wire coats: Stripping knives, clipping tools, and pin brushes.
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Curly coats: Slicker brushes, detangling combs, clipping tools, and Earth Rated’s Curly Coat 3-in-1 Dog Shampoo.
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Long coats: Pin brushes, wide-tooth combs, and detangling sprays. For mats in long coats, not at the base of the skin, Giulia recommends spraying some Earth Rated detangling spray before brushing out the mat.
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Hairless dogs: Dog-safe moisturizers, sunscreen, and gentle shampoos.
Common Mistakes in Dog Coat Care
Let’s tackle some of the most common grooming mistakes and how to avoid them.
Overwashing
Frequent bathing can strip your dog’s natural coat oils, leading to dryness and irritation. While some dogs might need regular baths, most do not. The frequency will depend on your dog’s activity levels but in general:
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Double-coated dogs: About 2-3 times a year, unless they roll in something stinky!
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Smooth-coated dogs: No more than once a month due to skin sensitivities.
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Curly-coated dogs: Every 6-8 weeks with regular grooming is plenty.
It’s important to bathe your dog well and be sure to use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo.
Using the Wrong Tools
Not just any brush will do when you’re grooming your pup. The wrong tool can be ineffective, and there are just as many tools as dog coats!
You should match your grooming tools to your dog’s coat type. For instance, undercoat rakes work well for double-coated breeds, but you probably don’t want to use one on a short-haired dog.
Neglecting Seasonal Shedding
Double-coated dogs experience shedding during seasonal changes, so consider upping your grooming routine during these periods. Consider brushing heavy shedders daily during the fall and spring months, when they tend to shed more.
Skipping Regular Brushing
The easiest way to keep your dog’s coat clean and smooth is to brush them regularly. Dogs with long fur, like Shih Tzus, may require daily brushing unless you choose to have them trimmed short (which is common due to their coat’s tendency to mat).
You may need to experiment to determine the most efficient schedule to brush your dog. Don’t be surprised if this changes, too! Dogs can experience fur changes as they get older, and this may impact how much they need to be brushed.
Ignoring Skin Health
Your dog’s coat is important, but their skin is just as important. When you brush, keep an eye out for dry, flaky, or irritated skin, as this can signal an underlying problem like allergies.
Seasonal Grooming Tips
Grooming is a year-round task, but the changing seasons bring their own set of challenges.
Spring
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Heavy shedding: Double-coated dogs often shed in abundance to make way for lighter summer coats. Consider brushing daily to manage shedding and reduce hair around the house.
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Bathing: All the mud of spring can lead to your pup getting dirtier, so consider a dry shampoo like Earth Rated’s No Rinse Shampoo.
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Skincare: Increased pollen can sometimes lead to increased allergies, which can cause skin irritation. Wipe your dog’s paws with Earth Rated’s Grooming Wipes after walks if your dog has allergies.
Summer
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Prevent matting: Longer coats can mat after getting wet from sweat or swimming so consider getting them trimmed during this time.
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Hydrate and moisturize: Dry, hot weather can strip moisture from your pet’s skin. Some dogs may need some extra moisturization.
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Regular brushing: Though double-coated dogs shed less in the summer, they still need regular brushing to remove dirt and dander.
Fall
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Heavy shedding: Fall, like spring, is a shedding season as pets grow their winter coat. If your dog starts shedding more, extra brushing sessions can help!
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Coat protection: Cooler, windier weather can cause dry, brittle fur, so a good conditioning treatment is essential.
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Skin moisturizing: Many dogs may experience dry skin as the weather cools, especially hairless breeds.
Winter
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Dry skin: Just like your skin might dry out a bit in the winter, your dog’s might, too. Some dogs may do better with fewer baths to protect their skin’s natural oils.
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Keep coats clean: Winter might be a white wonderland, but the salt and mud can do a number on your dog’s paws and coat. Consider having Earth Rated’s No-Rinse Shampoo for quick cleanups that don’t involve a full bath.
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Trim for comfort: Consider trimming around your dog’s paw pads to help reduce snowballs!
How Earth Rated Can Help
Understanding your dog’s coat type and the unique grooming needs that come with it is essential for maintaining a healthy, shiny coat all year long. Whether it’s managing seasonal shedding, preventing matting, or dealing with dry skin, the right grooming routine can make all the difference!
That’s where Earth Rated comes in. Our range of grooming products is designed to support every aspect of your pet’s coat care. We offer high-quality solutions that make grooming easier, safer, and more effective. Shop our grooming line today!
