Is it ethical to have a shaved Goldendoodle? This is a question that has been debated by many dog owners. Some people believe that shaving a Goldendoodle is necessary in order to keep them cool during the summer months, while others think that shaving a Goldendoodle is cruel and unnecessary. In this blog post, we will explore both sides of the argument and let you decide for yourself what you think is best for your Goldendoodle.
Stance #1: It is Ethical to Have a Shaved Goldendoodle
Thick coats vs. shaved
Some people believe that shaved Goldendoodles are actually more comfortable than those with full coats. They argue that the thick fur of a Goldendoodle can be quite heavy and hot during the summer months, and that shaving them down will help to keep them cool. Some people refer to this as the “goldendoodle summer cut”. After a Goldendoodle shave, they’ll have less fur to shed, which can be a benefit for those with allergies.
Matting
Another argument in favor of shaving Goldendoodles is that it can help to prevent matting. Matting occurs when the fur becomes tangled and matted together, and it can be very painful for dogs. Shaving the fur can help to avoid matting and keep your Goldendoodle comfortable.
Less grooming required
Those who shave their Goldendoodles also argue that it requires less grooming overall. Without the thick fur, there is less need to brush and groom on a daily basis, which can save you time and money in the long run.
Less home cleanup required
Another benefit of shaved Goldendoodles is that there is less fur to shed around the house. This can be a great benefit for those who are tired of cleaning up dog fur all over their floors and furniture. A Goldendoodle’s coat is highly prone to attracting dirt, dust, mud, and other debris that can be spread around your home, ultimately creating more to clean up.
Dogs can sometimes seem happier without their coats
Some shaved Goldendoodle owners report that their dogs seem happier and more relaxed without their thick coats. They argue that the shaved Goldendoodles have an easier time moving around and playing, and don’t seem to be as burdened by their fur.
Stance #2: It is Unethical to Have a Shaved Goldendoodle
Dogs are not meant to be shaved
Those against having a shaved doodle argue that dogs are not meant to be shaved. They argue that the thick fur of a Goldendoodle is there for a reason, and that it helps to protect them from the sun, heat, and cold weather. Shaving a Goldendoodle down to the skin leaves them vulnerable to all of these elements, and can ultimately be harmful to their health.
Sunburn
One of the main arguments against shaving Goldendoodles is that they are more likely to get sunburned. The thick fur of a Goldendoodle provides natural protection from the sun, and when this fur is shaved off, they are more susceptible to getting sunburned. This can be extremely painful for dogs and can even lead to skin cancer.
More likely to get cold
Shaved Goldendoodles may have a hard time regulating their body temperature, which can lead to health problems in extreme weather conditions. Some shaved Goldendoodle owners choose to use sweaters or coats to help their dogs regulate their body temperature, but this is not always practical, especially in warmer climates.
Skin infections
Another health concern for shaved Goldendoodles is that they are more prone to getting skin infections. The thick fur of a Goldendoodle helps to protect their skin from bacteria and other contaminants, but when shaved down, they are much more susceptible to these types of infections.
Behavioral problems
Some experts believe that shaved Goldendoodles are more likely to have behavioral problems. They argue that the shaved Goldendoodles may feel uncomfortable and anxious without their fur, which can lead to increased levels of stress. This stress can manifest itself in different ways, such as excessive barking, chewing, and digging.
How to Shave Your Goldendoodle
If you have decided to shave your Goldendoodle, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
An experienced groomer
First, you will need to find a good groomer who is experienced in shaving Goldendoodles. You are able to shaved your Goldendoodle at home, but we recommend finding a professional groomer to avoid any accidents.
The right equipment
You will also need to make sure you have the right equipment. A good set of clippers is a must, as well as sharp scissors. You will also need a slicker brush and a comb to help remove any knots or tangles in your Goldendoodle’s fur.
Groom your Goldendoodle
Before you start shaving your Goldendoodle, you will need to brush their fur to remove any knots or tangles. You should also trim their nails and clean their ears to avoid any accidents while shaving.
The shavedown process
Before you are ready to start shaving, we recommend taking a look at our guide on How to Groom Your Goldendoodle at Home.
You will need to use a clipper with a guard to avoid cutting your Goldendoodle’s skin. You should start by shaving the fur on their legs and work your way up to their body. Be sure to go slowly and be careful not to cut your dog’s skin.
After you have shaved your Goldendoodle’s fur, you will need to use a slicker brush and comb to remove any loose fur. You should also give your dog a bath to help remove any shaved fur that may be irritating their skin.
Prepare for the outcome
Finally, you need to be prepared for the possibility that your Goldendoodle may not look exactly like you want them to.
So, what’s the verdict?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to whether or not it is ethical to shave a Goldendoodle. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you feel is best for your dog. If you do choose to shave your Goldendoodle, be sure to take proper precautions to avoid any health risks. And, as always, consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s grooming routine.