Does My Dog Really Need a Haircut?

Breed-Specific Grooming Advice in Coquitlam 

As a dog owner in Port Coquitlam and Port Moody, you might wonder: Does my dog actually need a haircut? While regular grooming is essential for every dog, not all breeds require trimming. In fact, for some, cutting their coat can do more harm than good. Let’s break down which breeds need haircuts, which don’t, and how to ensure your pup’s coat stays healthy. 

Dogs That Don’t Need Haircuts 

Some breeds have coats that naturally regulate their temperature and protect their skin. Trimming or shaving these coats can interfere with their ability to stay comfortable in different weather conditions. Here are some coat types that typically don’t require haircuts: 

Smooth-Coated Breeds 

These dogs have short, sleek fur that doesn’t grow long enough to require trimming. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and maintain shine, but no haircut is needed. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Short-Haired Dachshunds 

 ✔️ Dobermans 

 ✔️ Weimaraners 

 ✔️ Vizslas 

Short-Coated Breeds 

Short-coated dogs shed naturally and don’t need haircuts, though regular deshedding treatments can help keep shedding under control. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Labrador Retrievers 

 ✔️ Pugs 

 ✔️ Jack Russell Terriers 

 ✔️ Corgis 

 ✔️ Beagles 

Double-Coated Breeds (with Shorter Undercoats) 

Breeds with thick, insulating double coats should never be shaved, as their fur helps regulate body temperature. Instead, they benefit from de-shedding treatments to remove loose undercoat hair. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Huskies 

 ✔️ Shiba Inus 

 ✔️ Akitas 

Hairless Dogs 

While they don’t require haircuts, hairless breeds still need regular grooming. Keeping their skin clean and moisturized is key to their overall health. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Xoloitzcuintli 

 ✔️ Chinese Crested (Not Powderpuff variety) 

Breeds That Do Need Regular Haircuts 

While some dogs don’t need trims, many breeds require regular haircuts to prevent matting, maintain coat health, and keep them comfortable. 

Long-Haired and Fluffy Breeds 

Dogs with continuously growing hair need routine trims to prevent mats and keep their coats manageable. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Shih Tzus 

 ✔️ Maltese 

 ✔️ Yorkshire Terriers 

 ✔️ Lhasa Apsos 

Doodles & Poodle Mixes 

These popular mixed breeds often have thick, curly coats that easily mat if not regularly brushed and trimmed. Routine grooming every 4-8 weeks is essential. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Goldendoodles 

 ✔️ Labradoodles 

 ✔️ Bernedoodles 

 ✔️ Cockapoos 

Spaniels & Setters 

These breeds have feathered coats that require trimming to prevent dirt buildup and matting, especially around their ears and paws. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Cocker Spaniels 

 ✔️ Cavalier King Charles Spaniels 

 ✔️ Irish Setters 

Terriers & Wire-Coated Breeds 

Wire-haired breeds often need hand-stripping or trimming to maintain their coat texture and health. Examples include: 

 ✔️ Schnauzers 

 ✔️ West Highland White Terriers 

 ✔️ Scottish Terriers 

Professional Dog Grooming in Port Coquitlam & Port Moody 

Whether your dog needs a haircut, de-shedding treatment, or just a good bath, our professional groomers at Good Dog  are here to help! We specialize in breed-specific grooming to keep your pup looking and feeling their best. 

Book an appointment today at our Port Coquitlam or Port Moody locations!