Caring for a Golden Retriever's double coat in Florida
Golden Retrievers were bred in the Scottish Highlands. Florida is the opposite of Scotland. The good news: Goldens adapt, and a smart grooming routine makes the difference between a comfortable Golden and a miserable one.
The cardinal rule: never shave a Golden Retriever. The double coat is their air conditioning — the topcoat reflects sun, and the undercoat traps a layer of cooler air against the skin. Shaving it removes the natural cooling system and exposes pink skin to Florida sun.
Instead: aggressive de-shedding. A Golden in Florida needs an undercoat rake or de-shedding treatment every 6 weeks. The high-velocity dryer used by salons is the gold standard — it blasts loose undercoat out without cutting the topcoat.
Brushing at home: 10 minutes daily during shedding seasons (March–May and October–November), 3 times a week the rest of the year. Use a slicker brush followed by a long-pin metal comb to catch tangles behind the ears and on the leg feathering.
Ear care is critical. Goldens have heavy floppy ears that hold moisture. Clean weekly with an enzymatic ear cleaner. Watch for head-shaking or pawing at ears — those are infection signs.
Cooling cuts (trimming feathering and belly hair short while leaving the topcoat) are the right summer compromise.