🐶 Dog · double (with undercoat) coat

Coat care: Labrador Retriever

Short, straight and very dense coat with a harsh topcoat and a soft, weather-resistant undercoat.

The Labrador has a short, straight and very dense double coat: the harsh topcoat repels water, while the soft undercoat protects against cold and damp. The coat needs no clipping, but it sheds all year round and especially heavily about twice a year. Home care therefore comes down to regular brushing to remove loose hair, and bathing only as often as necessary so the skin's natural oils are not stripped away.

🛁 Bathing

For Labradors that live mostly indoors, usually every 4–6 weeks, as well as whenever the dog gets dirty or after swimming in a pool, to rinse out the chlorine. Professional shampoos are often concentrated – dilute them according to the label and rinse well down to the skin.

🪮 Brushing

Once a week with a rubber grooming glove or a slicker brush, and during heavy shedding every day with a metal comb or an undercoat rake. Brush in the direction of hair growth, reaching down to the undercoat without pressing on the skin. Always brush before bathing.

🍂 Shedding and coat change

The Labrador sheds all year round, and about twice a year it blows its undercoat and loses hair “by the handful”. During those weeks, daily brushing and a bath in warm water help the loose hair come out faster instead of ending up on the floor.

Tips for home

  • Check the ears once a week – drop ears trap moisture, so dry them after bathing and swimming.
  • Trim or file the nails every 3–4 weeks if they do not wear down naturally.
  • Do not clip or shave the coat – the Labrador's short double coat needs no shaping.
  • Use brushing time to check the skin for ticks, fleas and changes; if in doubt, consult a vet.

Shampoos and conditioners for Labrador Retriever

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I bathe a Labrador?

Labradors that live mostly indoors are usually bathed every 4–6 weeks, and more often when needed – for example after mud or swimming in a pool. Bathing too often strips away the natural oils that make the coat water-repellent. Brush thoroughly before the bath, use a dog shampoo diluted according to the label, and rinse until the water runs completely clear.

Do Labradors shed a lot?

Yes. The Labrador has a double coat and sheds all year round, and about twice a year it blows its undercoat and loses far more hair. Brushing once a week, and every day during seasonal shedding, significantly reduces the hair around the home. If you notice patchy thinning of the coat, redness or itching, consult a vet.

Can a Labrador be clipped in summer?

It is not recommended. The double coat acts as insulation and protects the skin from the sun, and after shaving the undercoat may grow back faster than the topcoat, leaving the coat uneven and with a different texture. Shaving does not stop shedding. In summer it is more helpful to regularly brush out the loose undercoat and provide shade, water and walks in the cooler hours.

Care for other breeds

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This advice is general. For skin or ear problems, consult a vet.