Did you know your Labrador’s coat needs care? Tools like using the proper shampoo and brush, and actions like not clipping the hair all attribute to a healthy coat for your American Labrador retriever. One common Labrador retriever fact some pet owners don’t know is they actually have two coats. The undercoat keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while the outer coat consists of shorter and sleeker hair to help repel water. Because of the dual-coat, extra care is needed to help them be comfortable and attractive. Here are some of the best ways to care for your lab’s coat.
Brush Frequently
One of the most common Labrador retriever traits is the constant shedding. This is especially true in the spring, since the temperatures begin to rise and your Lab’s undercoat loses its winter protection. The result is having hair everywhere in your home. Brushing your American Labrador retriever frequently can help speed up the shedding process and make them more comfortable. Be sure to brush both the top coat and the undercoat for best results, and do so on a regular basis throughout the year.
Avoid Clipping Your Lab’s Hair
One of the worst things a Lab owner can do is clip the hair. It may make sense to clip or shave your Lab’s hair off in the spring and summer to keep them cool, but you will be causing more harm than good by doing so. A Lab’s coat is designed to naturally keep them cool, even when it may seem like they are hot. If you cut the hair, you are leaving your dog vulnerable to the weather elements and removing the natural protective layer they need.
Be Careful Using Too Much Shampoo
Use a mild shampoo on your American Labrador retriever, and don’t shampoo them too much. Your Lab’s coat creates natural oils in order to repel water and keep it smooth and shiny. By shampooing too much, you could be removing those natural oils and causing the coat to become dry, brittle and potentially tangled and uncomfortable for them. Instead, just wash your Lab off with water and use a mild shampoo only when needed.
Taking proper care of your Lab’s coat is important for the health and safety of your dog. Sometimes the best thing a pet owner can do is let nature take its course and only intervene when it’s absolutely necessary. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to keep your Lab’s coat healthy.
