Groom’d: Tips For Deshedding & Protecting The Coats Of Double-coated Dogs

EDITOR’S NOTE: PETS+ is the media partner for GROOM’D, the annual grooming-focused pet trade show presented by World Pet Association. The PETS+ team will be reporting live from Atlanta, GA, Friday through Sunday. To not miss any of the action, like our Facebook page and sign up for the daily GROOM’D ebulletin at petsplusmag.com/subscribe.

Tonya Smith’s “Deshedding Done Right: Protecting Coat Integrity in Double-Coated Dogs” session was a hit. A packed crowd gathered to watch a live demonstration featuring an adorable Pomeranian as the star of the show. Smith discussed the techniques she uses in her salon for undercoat removal, deshedding, and drying that help protect the coat and skin while enhancing texture and shine.

What made the session especially engaging was Smith’s focus on interacting with the audience. From the beginning, she answered questions, offered advice, and even suggested products to attendees looking for solutions to specific grooming challenges.

The dog, who was a bit nervous about receiving so much on-stage attention, wasn’t quite ready for the full grooming demonstration right away. She began by gently brushing him to help loosen the hair, open the coat, and check for compaction or mats. She noted that brushing a completely dry coat can cause breakage, which is why she always recommends adding some moisture, such as a conditioning spray, before brushing.

Smith also showed some of her favorite tools, emphasizing the importance of understanding what each tool is designed to do, how to use it and when to use it.

She stressed that double-coated dogs should never be shaved because their coats act as natural insulation, keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. Shaving these dogs can lead to:

• Thermal Stress (the ability to regulate temperature)
• Follicular Dysplasia (causes the coat to grow back patchy, “crunchy,” or not at all.
• Sunburn

If a pet parent asks her to “shave it short,” Smith said she will only do so for medical reasons. Instead, she recommends options like a “tight silhouette trim” or an “outline clip.” She explained that educating owners is one of a groomer’s most valuable tools. In most cases, once she explains why double-coated dogs shouldn’t be shaved, clients are open to the alternative options.

Read more PETS+ coverage of GROOM’D 2026.