hi i have some questions to ask you

Question
1. on dogs with undercoat what would happen if you didnt get out the undercoat and left it in coat


2. why does the undercoat matt if left in coat


3. i heard groomers say that the undercoat is a cooling system.  is it proven that the undercoat does also cool the dog down.


im just wondering to all these questions. i have more later

Answer
Lauren,

1. I'll assume you mean if the dog is shedding or "dropping" its fur. If the coat is free of mats and debris, nothing will "happen". If a dog has a profuse undercoat and it is not maintained, it will become matted, full of debris and can harbor stickers and even maggots if he has open sores; which are difficult to detect without regular grooming. If you live in warm climate, you should regularly brush your dog so the double-coat (not undercoat) has a chance to insulate your dog. If the dog has an 'under-coat' which sheds, regular grooming will help. If loose or matted fur is left in your dog's coat, it can not properly do its job of protecting against the elements. Imagine wearing two layers of clothing, one of which is dirty, tied in knots and often damp. The unkempt layer would irritate your skin and cause you to overheat. If however, the under-layer were clean and constructed of material to help cool you, it would serve its function.

2. Undercoat does not always mat if properly cared for. It may become dense and difficult to manage, depending on the breed.

3. The undercoat of a double-coated breed works as a "cooling system" and a "warming system" because it protects the skin from harsh elements.

Regarding your last question, "is it proven that the undercoat does also cool the dog down?"

If you are referring to "double-coated" breeds instead of "undercoat", the answer lies in the geographical location where the breed originates. For instance, northern breeds, e.g., huskies, are bred to survive and thrive in sub-zero weather. The double-coat acts as insulation from the elements; conversely, the same breed residing in southern Ca., also benefits from the protection of its dense, double-coat.
Thank-you