Dogs That Shouldn't Get Haircuts

When it comes to dogs that shouldn't get haircuts, canine breeds with double coats that evolved for insulation and weather protection. Also known as double-coated dogs, these breeds rely on their natural fur to regulate body temperature, repel water, and shield skin from sun and bugs. Shaving them doesn’t make them cooler—it breaks their built-in climate control system.

Think of a double coat, a two-layered fur structure with a dense undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat. Also known as undercoat and guard hairs, this combo keeps dogs warm in winter and cool in summer by trapping air next to the skin. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies, and Border Collies have this. Their undercoat sheds seasonally—called "blowing coat"—and brushing removes loose fur. Cutting or shaving disrupts this cycle. Without the topcoat, the undercoat can grow back unevenly, or worse, not at all. That leaves the dog vulnerable to sunburn, overheating, and skin irritation.

Even in hot weather, these dogs don’t need a buzz cut. A light trim around the paws and sanitary areas helps, but the main coat should stay intact. Grooming for these dogs means regular brushing, not clipping. A good slicker brush and an undercoat rake do more than any clippers. Skipping brushing leads to mats, which trap heat and moisture, causing hot spots. Brushing daily during shedding season prevents that.

Some groomers push haircuts because they’re faster and more profitable. But it’s not care—it’s convenience. Real dog care means understanding coat biology, not following trends. If your dog is a Labrador, a Malamute, or a Chow Chow, their natural coat is their best protection. Let it do its job.

What about single-coated dogs? That’s a different story. Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichons need regular trims because their hair grows continuously, like ours. But if your dog has a thick, fluffy undercoat, cutting it is like removing a winter coat in October—you think you’re helping, but you’re just making things harder.

Below, you’ll find real advice from dog owners and professionals on how to care for these breeds the right way. No myths. No shortcuts. Just what actually works for dogs with natural coats.