Double-coated dogs have a dense undercoat and a coarser outer coat. This unique structure helps them regulate body temperature. During seasonal changes, particularly in spring and fall, these dogs shed their undercoat to adapt to the weather. A proper bath can help release this loose hair, making the shedding process more manageable for both you and your dog.
Why Double Coats Shed
Your dog’s double coat is designed to protect them from heat and cold. The soft, dense undercoat provides insulation, while the longer, tougher guard hairs of the outer coat repel water and dirt. When seasons change, the undercoat sheds heavily to make way for a new coat suited to the coming temperatures. This natural process can create a lot of loose hair around your home. Regular bathing and grooming can help remove this shedding undercoat efficiently, preventing mats and keeping your dog comfortable.
Preparing for the Bath
Before bathing, a thorough brush-out can remove some loose hair and minor tangles. Use a slicker-style brush designed to reach through dense coats. The Big Size Metallic Brush is a good choice for larger dogs and broad areas. If your dog has a smaller frame, the Small Size Metallic Brush with Extra Long Tines works well. This initial brushing helps the shampoo penetrate better and prevents any existing mats from tightening.
Gather all your supplies before you start. You will need your chosen shampoo and mask, a towel, and your brushes and combs.
The Bathing Process
For the first bath to address heavy seasonal shedding, start with a deep cleanse. Use Stripper, a chelating and purifying shampoo. It opens the cuticle and lifts away every kind of residue and product buildup. This is important for removing old oils and dead hair that might be clinging to the coat. Lather twice in warm water, rinsing thoroughly after each application.
After shampooing, it is time for a mask. Fortaleza Treatment is an excellent choice for double coats. It provides maximum nutrition and extraordinary shine without changing the coat’s natural volume. It also seals dry or damaged ends. Blot your dog’s coat with a Big Size Microfiber Towel until it is damp, but not dripping. Apply the mask in three zones: chest, front legs, neck, and head; back and underside; hips, skirts, tail, and rear legs. Massage it into the ends of the coat.
Once the mask is applied, wrap your dog in plastic, then a towel and a warm blanket. This helps the product work for 20 to 30 minutes. Do not use an absorbent towel directly against the coat during this time, as it can pull the product back out. After this period, let your dog cool for five minutes, then rinse with plenty of cold water to seal the cuticle and lock in moisture.
For ongoing maintenance baths, you can switch to a routine that supports coat health and volume. Bathe your dog with Gluttony shampoo, which adds body and texture without drying the skin or coat. Follow with Gossip, a collagen concentrate conditioner that provides expansive volume.
If you are looking for other shampoo options, you can explore the full range of Starfire’s shampoos to find what best suits your dog’s specific needs.
Drying and Brushing
After the cold rinse, blot the coat again with your Big Size Microfiber Towel to remove excess water. Then, spray Fortaleza Spray evenly over the coat. This light leave-in hydration and daily conditioning spray helps protect the coat during drying and makes brushing easier. Dry your dog completely, working through the coat with your Big Size Metallic Brush to lift and separate the hairs. This helps to release any remaining loose undercoat.
Once the coat is dry, run a Professional Comb from root to tip. This is your final check for any missed knots or tangles and ensures the coat is fully detangled.
Between Baths
Regular brushing between baths is key to managing shedding. A quick daily brush-out with a Big Size Metallic Brush can remove a surprising amount of loose hair. Lightly mist the coat with Fortaleza Spray before brushing to help prevent breakage and keep the coat hydrated. This routine helps prevent mats from forming and keeps the shedding under control, making your home cleaner and your dog more comfortable.
What you need
- Big Size Metallic Brush: for initial brushing and drying.
- Stripper: for the first deep-cleaning bath to remove buildup.
- Fortaleza Treatment: as a hydrating mask after deep cleaning.
- Big Size Microfiber Towel: for blotting excess water before and after masks.
- Gluttony: for maintenance baths to add body and texture.
- Gossip: as a conditioning mask for maintenance baths.
- Fortaleza Spray: for daily conditioning and protecting the coat during drying.
- Professional Combs: for checking for knots after drying.
For a routine built specifically for your dog, explore our Grooming Advisor.