The heat is coming, the thermometer is rising, and with it, the classic temptation arises: seeing our dog panting and thinking the best thing to do is take them to the groomer to keep them "cool" with a radical haircut. But are we really helping our best friend, or are we disrupting their natural cooling mechanism?
It depends on their genetics. Before picking up the clippers, it is essential to understand that not all dogs manage heat in the same way.
The science of fur: More than just a coat
For many owners, fur is simply a "coat," but biologically, it is an essential thermal insulation system.
The key lies in the biological connection. Many breeds possess what we call a "double coat":
- Undercoat: Dense and woolly, responsible for regulating body temperature.
- Outer coat: Longer and more resistant, which protects against solar radiation, insects, and humidity.
This system acts like a thermos: it protects against extreme cold in winter, but also against suffocating heat in summer, maintaining a layer of cool air close to the skin. Cutting the hair of a dog with a double coat is counterproductive, as you remove their natural protection, exposing them directly to overheating and the risk of sunburn.
What does your dog's DNA say?: Identifying high-risk coats
At Koko Genetics, we don't just analyze breeds to satisfy curiosity; our test examines specific genetic traits of the coat, such as length and texture.
Your decision-making tool
Thanks to our report on dog physical traits, you can know with scientific precision what type of coat your dog has. Your DNA doesn't lie: it is the ultimate guide to caring for your dog according to their own biological reality.
Breeds that should "never" be shaved
Certain Nordic breeds, such as the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute, or the Samoyed, possess a structure designed exclusively to self-regulate their temperature. Unnecessary cutting can cause post-clipping alopecia (where the hair loses its ability to regenerate and grows back irregularly) and a critical vulnerability to the sun.
Quick maintenance guide:
Before booking an appointment at the groomer, leave fads aside. Most of the time, frequent brushing to remove dead hair is infinitely more effective than a radical cut, as it allows air to circulate through their natural coat.
Thanks to the dog DNA test from Koko Genetics, you can make informed decisions about your dog's well-being based on their genetic reality and not on assumptions.
