Grooming double-coat dogs through the autumn shed in Japan
Double-coat breeds shed twice a year in Japan, with the autumn shed typically beginning in late September and running through November. The undercoat loosens before the outer coat, which means surface brushing alone does not remove the bulk of the shed hair. The right tool sequence makes a significant difference to both the dog's comfort and the amount of hair that ends up on furniture.
Why the undercoat matters
The undercoat is the dense, soft layer closest to the skin. In autumn, the summer undercoat loosens to make way for the thicker winter coat. If the loose undercoat is not removed, it mats against the skin, traps moisture, and can cause skin irritation. This is particularly common in breeds like Shiba Inu, Akita, and Siberian Husky, all of which are kept in Japan in significant numbers.
A slicker brush removes surface tangles and loose outer coat hair but does not reach the undercoat effectively. An undercoat rake or a double-sided comb with wider-spaced teeth on one side is necessary to work through the undercoat without pulling.
Tool selection for Japanese breeds
For Shiba Inu and similar medium-sized double-coat breeds, a combination of a medium-pin slicker brush and a stainless steel double-sided comb works well. The slicker brush is used first to remove surface tangles, followed by the comb to work through the undercoat in sections. For larger breeds such as Akita, an undercoat rake with rotating teeth reduces pulling significantly.
The grooming tools we stock at Solar Pioneer are sourced from a domestic manufacturer in Aichi Prefecture. The pin spacing and handle design are suited to Japanese breed coat types, which tend to be denser and shorter than the coats of many European breeds.
Frequency during the shed
During the peak autumn shed, daily brushing for 10-15 minutes is more effective than a single long session once a week. Short, regular sessions also keep the dog more comfortable with the process. If the coat is already matted when you begin, work from the tips inward rather than pulling from the root, and use a detangling spray if necessary.
If you are unsure which tools are right for your dog's specific coat, bring the dog into the shop and we will match the tools to the coat in person.