13 Double Coated Dog Breeds & How to Groom Them

let’s Dive into the world of canine glamour as we explore 13 enchanting double-coated dog breeds that boast luxurious fur. These breeds, ranging from the majestic Siberian Husky to the charming Shetland Sheepdog, carry a unique elegance in their double-layered coats.

Understanding the grooming needs of these furry companions is essential for maintaining their beauty and overall well-being.

What Is a Double-Coated Dog?

A double-coated dog is like nature’s way of giving them a built-in weather-resistant jacket. Imagine two layers of fur working together – a soft, plush undercoat close to their skin and a longer, protective outer coat. This design helps them stay cozy in the cold and cool in the heat. Breeds like the fluffy Golden Retriever or the resilient Siberian Husky often boast these dual layers.

Regular grooming is crucial for these furballs to keep both layers healthy and radiant. Understanding if your dog has a double coat is as simple as feeling their fur – a soft undercoat beneath longer guard hairs is a telltale sign. It’s like having a natural, all-weather outfit that keeps them comfortable and looking fabulous!

Double-Coated Dog Breeds

1. Golden Retriever

Welcome to the world of the Golden Retriever, a shining star in the sporting group. Standing gracefully at 21.5 to 24 inches and weighing a heartwarming 55 to 75 pounds, these friendly companions boast a medium double coat in dark golden, golden, and light golden hues.

Known for their intelligence and affectionate nature, Golden Retrievers are not just delightful family pets but also excel in various roles, from therapy dogs to search and rescue heroes. With a lifespan ranging from 10 to 12 years, they bring enduring joy and loyalty to households.

• Group: Sporting
• Size: 21.5-24 inches
• Weight: 55-75 pounds
• Fur & Color: Medium double coat in dark golden, golden, and light golden
• Lifespan: 10-12 years

Grooming a Golden Retriever is a shared experience of love and care. Regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons, not only maintains their coat’s gleaming allure but also strengthens the bond between pet and owner. Whether retrieving a ball with enthusiasm or lounging on the sofa, the Golden Retriever remains a timeless symbol of devotion and warmth.

2. Labrador Retriever

Meet the Labrador Retriever, a versatile charmer in the sporting group. Standing proudly at 21.5 to 24 inches and weighing a dynamic 55 to 75 pounds, Labradors are celebrated for their short, dense double coat, available in classic black, yellow, and chocolate colours.

Renowned for their friendly disposition and adaptability, Labradors seamlessly transition from loyal family pets to indispensable service dogs. With a lifespan extending from 10 to 14 years, they leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those lucky enough to share their lives.

• Group: Sporting
• Size: 21.5-24 inches
• Weight: 55-75 pounds
• Fur & Color: Short, dense double coat in black, yellow, and chocolate
• Lifespan: 10-14 years

Grooming a Labrador is a joyful task. Regular brushing keeps their coat in prime condition, ready for any adventure, especially considering their love for water. Labradors, with their innate intelligence and eagerness to please, embody the perfect blend of companionship and utility, enriching households with their boundless energy and unwavering loyalty.

3. German Shepherd

Enter the world of the German Shepherd, a stalwart figure in the herding group. These noble dogs stand at 22 to 26 inches, and weigh 50 to 90 pounds, with a striking double coat that comes in various colours, including black and tan.

Revered for their intelligence and versatility, German Shepherds excel in roles ranging from police and military work to loyal family guardians. With a lifespan of 9 to 13 years, German Shepherds form enduring bonds with their human companions.

• Group: Herding
• Size: 22-26 inches
• Weight: 50-90 pounds
• Fur & Color: Double coat in various colours, including black and tan
• Lifespan: 9-13 years

Grooming a German Shepherd requires regular attention to their dense double coat. Brushing helps minimize shedding and keeps their coat healthy. These regal dogs, with their confident demeanour and unwavering loyalty, continue to be a symbol of courage and devotion.

4. Australian Shepherd

Step into the energetic world of the Australian Shepherd, a dynamic herding breed. With a height ranging from 18 to 23 inches and a weight of 40 to 65 pounds, Australian Shepherds captivate with their stunning double coats in a variety of colours, including blue merle and red merle.

Known for their agility and intelligence, these herding champions excel in dog sports and various activities. With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, Australian Shepherds bring vibrancy and joy to their families.

• Group: Herding
• Size: 18-23 inches
• Weight: 40-65 pounds
• Fur & Color: Double coat in various colours, including blue merle and red merle
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Grooming an Australian Shepherd is a delightful experience. Regular brushing keeps their coat in top condition, highlighting the beauty of their unique colour patterns. These spirited companions, with their boundless energy and quick wit, continue to be beloved members of households, embodying the spirit of adventure and loyalty.

5. Alaskan Malamute

Step into the rugged charm of the Alaskan Malamute, a powerful member of the working group. Standing at 23 to 25 inches and weighing 75 to 85 pounds, these sturdy dogs showcase a dense double coat in various shades, including sable and red.

Renowned for their strength and endurance, Alaskan Malamutes have a history of pulling sleds in Arctic conditions. With a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, they form strong bonds with their families.

• Group: Working
• Size: 23-25 inches
• Weight: 75-85 pounds
• Fur & Color: Dense double coat in various shades, including sable and red
• Lifespan: 10-14 years

Grooming an Alaskan Malamute requires special attention to their double coat. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy. These majestic dogs, with their friendly demeanour and impressive work ethic, continue to capture the hearts of those who appreciate their rugged beauty and gentle spirit.

6. Akita

Discover the regal presence of the Akita, a dignified member of the working group. With a height ranging from 24 to 28 inches and a weight of 70 to 130 pounds, Akitas boast a thick double coat in various colours, including brindle and pinto.

Known for their loyalty and noble appearance, Akitas have a rich history as Japanese royalty’s cherished companions. With a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, they form profound connections with their families.

• Group: Working
• Size: 24-28 inches
• Weight: 70-130 pounds
• Fur & Color: Thick double coat in various colours, including brindle and pinto
• Lifespan: 10-15 years

Grooming an Akita involves regular brushing to maintain their luxurious double coat. These dignified dogs, with their courageous nature and gentle demeanour, continue to be symbols of loyalty and strength, embodying a timeless elegance that resonates through the ages.

7. Bernese Mountain Dog

Step into the majestic world of the Bernese Mountain Dog, a gentle giant in the working group. With a commanding presence, these dogs stand at 23 to 27.5 inches and weigh 70 to 115 pounds, showcasing a thick double coat in distinctive tricolour patterns.

Known for their friendly nature and devotion, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a heart as warm as their luxurious coat. With a lifespan of 6 to 8 years, they leave an enduring impression on those fortunate enough to share their company.

• Group: Working
• Size: 23-27.5 inches
• Weight: 70-115 pounds
• Fur & Color: Thick double coat in distinctive tricolour patterns
• Lifespan: 6-8 years

Grooming a Bernese Mountain Dog involves regular brushing to maintain their coat’s lustre and prevent matting. These affectionate companions, with their gentle demeanour and striking appearance, continue to be cherished members of families, bringing joy and warmth wherever they go.

8. Newfoundland

Dive into the gentle world of Newfoundland, a water-loving giant in the working group. With a stature ranging from 26 to 28 inches and a weight of 100 to 150 pounds, these dogs boast a dense double coat in various colours, including black and Landseer.

Known for their calm temperament and natural swimming abilities, Newfoundlands excel as water rescue dogs. With a lifespan of 9 to 10 years, they form deep connections with their families.

• Group: Working
• Size: 26-28 inches
• Weight: 100-150 pounds
• Fur & Color: Dense double coat in various colours, including black and Landseer
• Lifespan: 9-10 years

Grooming a Newfoundland is a labour of love. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy. These water enthusiasts, with their sweet disposition and protective instincts, continue to be beloved companions, exemplifying the perfect blend of strength and gentleness.

9. Siberian Husky

Embark on an Arctic adventure with the Siberian Husky, a captivating member of the working group. Standing at 20 to 24 inches and weighing 35 to 60 pounds, these dogs showcase a thick double coat in various colours and striking facial masks.

Known for their friendly demeanour and distinctive appearance, Siberian Huskies have a rich history as sled dogs. With a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, they bring a touch of the wilderness to their families.

• Group: Working
• Size: 20-24 inches
• Weight: 35-60 pounds
• Fur & Color: Thick double coat in various colours and facial masks
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Grooming a Siberian Husky involves regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons, to maintain their coat’s health and lustre. These spirited companions, with their playful nature and captivating blue eyes, continue to capture hearts worldwide, embodying the spirit of adventure and loyalty.

10. Pomeranian

Enter the delightful world of the Pomeranian, a petite charmer in the toy group. With a height ranging from 6 to 7 inches and a weight of 3 to 7 pounds, these dogs boast a luxurious double coat in various colours.

Known for their vivacious personality and fox-like expression, Pomeranians are spirited companions. With a lifespan of 12 to 16 years, they leave a lasting imprint on their families.

• Group: Toy
• Size: Varies
• Weight: Varies
• Fur & Color: Fluffy double coat in various colours
• Lifespan: 12-16 years

Grooming a Pomeranian is a delightful experience. Regular brushing helps maintain their fluffy coat and prevent matting. These lively and affectionate dogs, with their boundless energy and confident demeanour, continue to be cherished companions, bringing joy and laughter into their homes.

11. Keeshond

Discover the enchanting world of the Keeshond, a lively member of the non-sporting group. With a height ranging from 17 to 18 inches and a weight of 35 to 45 pounds, these dogs showcase a distinctive double coat in shades of grey, black, and cream.

Known for their friendly nature and fox-like expression, Keeshonds are adaptable companions. With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, they form enduring connections with their families.

• Group: Non-Sporting
• Size: 17-18 inches
• Weight: 35-45 pounds
• Fur & Color: Distinctive double coat in shades of grey, black, and cream.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Grooming a Keeshond involves regular brushing to maintain their coat’s fluffiness and prevent matting. These lively and alert dogs, with their captivating “spectacles” and friendly disposition, continue to be cherished companions, bringing a touch of elegance and warmth into their homes.

12. Old English Sheepdog

Step into the charming world of the Old English Sheepdog, a distinctive member of the herding group. With a stature ranging from 21 to 22 inches and a weight of 60 to 100 pounds, these dogs showcase a dense double coat in shades of grey and white.

Known for their amiable nature and signature “bobtail,” Old English Sheepdogs excel as herding and family companions. With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, they create a lasting impact on those who welcome them into their homes.

• Group: Herding
• Size: 21-22 inches
• Weight: 60-100 pounds
• Fur & Color: Dense double coat in shades of grey and white
• Lifespan: 10-12 years

Grooming an Old English Sheepdog is a labour of love. Regular brushing helps maintain their iconic coat, and occasional trims keep them looking their best. These amiable and gentle dogs, with their distinctive appearance and playful personality, continue to be cherished members of families, bringing joy and laughter wherever they go.

13. Great Pyrenees

Enter the majestic world of the Great Pyrenees, a gentle giant in the working group. With a height ranging from 25 to 32 inches and a weight of 100 to 150 pounds, these dogs showcase a thick double coat in white. Known for their calm demeanour and protective instincts, Great Pyrenees has a rich history as livestock guardians. With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, they form profound bonds with their families.

• Group: Working
• Size: 25-32 inches
• Weight: 100-150 pounds
• Fur & Color: Thick double coat in white
• Lifespan: 10-12 years

Grooming a Great Pyrenees involves regular brushing to manage shedding and prevent matting. These regal and gentle giants, with their serene nature and majestic presence, continue to be cherished protectors and companions, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to call them family.

Grooming Tips for Double-Coated Dogs

Caring for your double-coated dog’s fur is a breeze with a few simple grooming tips. Regular brushing is key to keeping their coat healthy and shiny. Choose a slicker brush or an undercoat rake, depending on your dog’s breed, to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Baths are important but don’t overdo it—once every few months is usually enough to keep them clean without stripping away their natural oils. Pay attention to tricky spots like behind the ears and under the tail.

If you’re not confident with grooming, consider professional help during heavy shedding times. This way, your furry friend stays comfortable and happy with a coat that’s as radiant as their personality.

Can Dogs With Double Coats Be Shaved?

Shaving dogs with double coats are generally not recommended. You see, their furry double coat is like Mother Nature’s thermostat, helping them stay cool in the heat and warm in the cold. When we shave them, it’s like messing with their built-in temperature control system.

Also, their fur doesn’t grow back the same way our hair does. Shaving can mess with the texture and colour permanently. Plus, it might lead to issues like sunburn in the summer or feeling chilly in the winter.

If you’re worried about your fluffy friend’s coat, it’s best to chat with a vet or a pro groomer. They can give you advice tailored to your pup’s needs. Just remember, regular brushing is usually enough to keep their coat comfy and healthy!

FAQs

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has a Double Coat?

You can usually tell if your dog has a double coat by feeling the fur. Double coats consist of a soft, dense undercoat beneath longer guard hairs. Breeds like Huskies or Golden Retrievers often have double coats. If you feel a soft, thick layer close to the skin, your dog likely has a double coat.

Is the Golden Retriever Double-Coated?

Yes, indeed! Golden Retrievers have a double coat. Their luxurious fur consists of a dense undercoat that helps insulate them from the cold and a longer outer coat that provides protection. Regular grooming is essential to keep their double coat healthy and radiant.

Do Double-Coated Dogs Get Cold?

While double coats provide insulation, it doesn’t mean double-coated dogs are immune to colds. In extreme weather conditions, especially for breeds adapted to warmer climates, they might feel the chill. It’s essential to monitor your dog in cold weather, consider providing them with appropriate protection, and ensure they have a cozy spot indoors when temperatures drop.

Final Thoughts

In wrapping up, it’s vital to understand your dog’s coat for their overall well-being. To check if your furry friend has a double coat, just run your fingers through their fur – a soft undercoat beneath longer guard hairs usually indicates a double coat. Popular pals like the Golden Retriever fall into this category, needing regular grooming for a healthy coat.

Despite the insulation they provide, double-coated dogs can still feel the cold. Keep an eye on them in extreme weather and consider providing extra protection. If you ever feel unsure, reaching out to a vet or a professional groomer ensures you’re meeting your pup’s specific needs. Ultimately, showing love and care for your dog’s coat, no matter the type is key to having a happy and healthy canine companion.