🐶 Dog · double (with undercoat) coat
Coat care: German Shepherd
Medium-length double coat – a dense, straight, harsh, close-lying topcoat and a softer undercoat; a longer-haired variety also exists.
The German Shepherd has a medium-length double coat: a dense, straight and harsh topcoat that lies close to the body, and a softer undercoat that protects it from cold and damp. Dogs with longer hair are also found. The breed sheds all year round and more heavily once or twice a year. Home maintenance is simple but regular: brushing every few days, every day during seasonal shedding, and bathing only when truly necessary.
🛁 Bathing
Rarely – only when needed, for example when the dog gets muddy or very dirty; frequent bathing strips the natural oils from the skin and coat. Dilute concentrated shampoos according to the label, rinse well and dry thoroughly down to the undercoat.
🪮 Brushing
Every few days (for example every other day) with a deshedding tool or an undercoat rake, and a slicker brush if needed; in shedding season, every day. Work in sections in the direction of the hair and do not press the tools into the skin – incorrect use can damage the topcoat.
🍂 Shedding and coat change
Sheds all year round, and once or twice a year it blows its undercoat and loses considerably more hair. During those weeks, daily brushing limits the amount of hair around the home.
Tips for home
- Trim or file the nails roughly once a month if they do not wear down naturally.
- Check the erect ears for dirt every time you brush.
- Do not shave or shorten the coat – the double coat insulates against both cold and heat, and after shaving it struggles to grow back properly.
- Get the puppy used to brushing and nail trimming early so it accepts grooming calmly as an adult.
Shampoos and conditioners for German Shepherd
More in the finder →-
TropiClean PerfectFur Thick Double Coat Shed Reducing Dog Shampoo 473ml
€19,99 Unit price €42,26/L -
iGroom Deshedding + Detangling Shampoo for Shedding and Easy Brushing
€43,50 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €91,97/L -
TropiClean PerfectFur Short Double Coat Deodorizing & Shed Reducing Dog Shampoo 473ml
€19,99 Unit price €42,26/L -
TropiClean PerfectFur Shampoo for Golden Retrievers, Collies and More
€19,99 Unit price €42,26/L -
Groom Professional Dirty Dogs Shampoo Concentrate 20:1, 4 l
€21,80 Size: 450ml · 2 sizes Unit price €48,44/L -
Crown Royale Biovite #2 Shampoo, Concentrate 4:1 for Medium-Density Coat Texture
€42,85 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €90,59/L -
iGroom Deshedding + Detangling Conditioner – Anti-Shedding and Detangling Conditioner
€45,40 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €95,98/L -
Chris Christensen Ice on Ice Detangling Shampoo
€34,99 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €73,97/L -
iGroom Pro-Keratin Leave-In Conditioner for Intensive Repair and Protection, No-Rinse, 473 ml
€60,75 Size: 473ml · 2 sizes Unit price €128,44/L -
TropiClean Lime and Cocoa Butter Shed Control Conditioner for Dogs and Cats 355ml
€12,99 Unit price €36,59/L
Frequently asked questions
How often should I bathe a German Shepherd?
The German Shepherd does not need frequent bathing. Many breeders bathe their dogs only when they get truly dirty, for example after mud, because frequent bathing strips the natural oils from the skin and coat. Between baths, keep the coat clean with regular brushing. When you do bathe, dilute the shampoo according to the label and dry thoroughly down to the undercoat.
Can a German Shepherd be clipped in summer?
Shaving or shortening a German Shepherd's coat is generally not recommended. The double coat acts as insulation in both summer and winter and protects the skin from the sun, and after shaving it often grows back unevenly. It is more helpful to regularly remove the shed undercoat with a suitable tool and provide shade, water and walks in the cooler hours.
When do German Shepherds shed?
The German Shepherd loses hair all year round, and once or twice a year it blows its undercoat and sheds considerably more heavily. The frequency also depends on the climate: in warmer conditions shedding may be more frequent or last longer. During these periods, brush every day. If you notice patchy thinning of the coat or irritated skin, consult a vet.
Care for other breeds
All breeds →This advice is general. For skin or ear problems, consult a vet.