If you share your home with a double-coated dog—like a Husky, Golden Retriever, Border Collie, or German Shepherd—you already know their beautiful, thick fur is one of their most defining features. That plush double layer helps protect them from harsh weather, but it also comes with some challenges—especially when it comes to fleas and ticks.
Many pet owners are surprised to learn that double-coated dogs are more vulnerable to hidden infestations than short-haired breeds. Their dense undercoat can trap fleas, flea dirt, and even ticks without you noticing right away. Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments, and a double coat can create exactly those conditions, especially during the warmer months. Ticks, meanwhile, can crawl deep into the fur, attaching themselves near the skin—where they’re hard to see and even harder to remove.
Left untreated, fleas and ticks aren’t just irritating—they can cause serious health problems. Fleas can lead to intense itching, allergic reactions, and even tapeworm infections. A heavy infestation can also result in anemia, especially in puppies and smaller breeds. Ticks are even more dangerous, as they’re known carriers of diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Because double coats provide such excellent hiding spots, these parasites can feed longer without being noticed, increasing the risk of transmission.
That’s why preventative flea and tick treatment isn’t optional for double-coated dogs—it’s essential.
So what’s the best way to protect your dog? While topical treatments like spot-ons can work, they need to be applied directly to the skin to be effective. With a thick coat, it can be difficult to part the hair far enough, meaning the medication may not reach where it needs to go. That’s why many pet owners with double-coated breeds prefer oral flea and tick preventatives. These chewable medications work from the inside out—no need to worry about coat thickness. Once ingested, the active ingredients circulate in your dog’s bloodstream, killing parasites that bite. Products like NexGard, Bravecto, and Simparica Trio are excellent choices and offer monthly or extended protection.
Flea and tick collars are another convenient option. Brands like Seresto offer up to 8 months of protection by slowly releasing pest-repelling ingredients that spread across the skin and coat. However, keep in mind that in extremely dense fur, some areas might not be fully reached by the collar alone. Collars work best as part of a broader prevention plan.
Of course, whatever treatment you choose, regular grooming is key. Brushing your dog at least a few times a week not only helps control shedding and matting—it also gives you the opportunity to spot fleas, flea dirt, or ticks early. During flea and tick season, a consistent grooming and treatment routine can make all the difference.
In short, double-coated dogs need proactive flea and tick prevention more than most. Their lush fur may be great for cold climates and Instagram photos, but it also provides ideal conditions for pests to hide, breed, and cause serious health problems. Protecting your dog means protecting their health, your home, and your peace of mind.
