What dog coats should not be clipped?

When the clippers in the pet grooming shop are buzzing, many pet owners instinctively want to clip their dogs' fur, thinking that this can make them feel fresher and more comfortable. However, not all dogs' fur is suitable for clipping. Some coats have special functions, and clipping them casually may cause unexpected harm to the dogs. Let's explore which dogs' coats need our careful protection and should not be trimmed easily.

Nature has bestowed each dog breed with a unique coat. These coats are not only beautiful decorations but also important barriers for them to adapt to the environment and protect themselves. Dog breeds from cold regions such as the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky have a thick double coat. The coarse outer guard hairs can effectively block the invasion of wind, snow, and rain, preventing water from seeping into the skin. The soft and dense inner down is like a natural thermal insulator, trapping heat in extremely cold environments and maintaining a constant body temperature. When we see them running freely in the snow, their fluffy fur dancing in the wind and snow, they seem to be the most perfect creations of nature. If we rashly shave off their fur, it's like removing their armor. Without protection, the dogs will shiver in the cold and are highly likely to suffer from diseases such as colds and pneumonia, and it may even endanger their lives. There will be unease and helplessness in their originally lively eyes, which makes us feel extremely sorry.

In addition to cold-region dog breeds, some hounds, such as the Afghan Hound and the Saluki, have long and flowing coats. Their coats not only have a unique aesthetic appeal but also can reduce air resistance when they run, helping them achieve their best speed when chasing prey. The hair structure of these dog breeds is special, and each hair has evolved over a long period to form a shape suitable for high-speed movement. When they gallop across the vast prairie, their long hair fluttering in the wind, they exude elegance and vigor. If their fur is clipped, destroying the natural shape of the hair, it will affect their athletic performance, just like dressing an athlete in ill-fitting equipment, preventing them from fully unleashing their nature. Moreover, during the regrowth process of the clipped hair, problems such as matting and deformation may occur. The original beauty will disappear completely, and the dog's confidence will also be damaged. It will no longer hold its head high and be full of energy as it used to be.

There are also some dog breeds, such as the Maltese and the Shih Tzu. Although their single coats do not have the strong warmth-keeping and protective functions like double coats, their protective effect on the skin should not be ignored. These soft and silky hairs can block the damage of ultraviolet rays to the skin, reduce the direct contact between dust, bacteria, and the skin, and lower the incidence of skin diseases. Their hair is like a delicate gauze garment, gently covering the skin. Once it is cut off, the skin is directly exposed to the external environment. It's like losing a protective umbrella and is extremely vulnerable to irritation. Especially in the summer with strong sunlight, the skin without the protection of hair is easily sunburned, causing problems such as redness, swelling, and itching. Watching the dog scratching frequently due to skin discomfort and even getting wounds, the owner will feel full of self-blame and distress.

In addition, a dog's coat is also closely related to its mental health. Every time we comb a dog's hair, it is a time for an intimate interaction between the owner and the dog. Gentle strokes and soft words of comfort can make the dog feel full of love and a sense of security. However, suddenly changing the state of their hair may make the dog confused and anxious. When they look in the mirror and see a strange self, or notice that their companions give them strange looks, the unease in their hearts will gradually spread. Some dogs may even become withdrawn and timid, no longer willing to be close to and play with their owners. This emotional harm is much more serious than we can imagine.

A dog's coat is a gift from nature, carrying the wisdom of survival and the sustenance of emotions. When we pursue beauty and convenience, we should respect the characteristics of each dog breed even more and understand the unique functions and meanings of their coats. For those coats that are not suitable for clipping, we should take care of them with a sense of awe, and use our professional knowledge and warm love to protect their health and happiness. Let every dog be able to accompany us through wonderful times in the most natural and comfortable state, and continue to light up our lives with their unique charm.