Nope—shaving isn’t always the answer.
As the weather starts to heat up, your dog will be looking for ways to keep cool. One of the best ways to help your pooch stay comfortable during the summer months is to stay on top of the best summer grooming practices. Grooming needs vary from dog to dog, so staying informed about what’s best for your breed is important.
We spoke with Kristin Morgan CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, Senior Program Manager, Canine Training & Grooming at PetSuites of America to get answers to your most pressing summer grooming questions.
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Does My Dog Need a Summer Haircut?
While it may seem like a no-brainer to have your dog shaved down during the toastiest months of the year, think again. For some dog breeds, having a shaved coat can cause more harm than good.
“Double-coated dogs, like huskies and German shepherds, should not be shaved because their coats regulate temperature and protect their skin from sunburn,” says Morgan. Instead, she offers an alternative. “Using a de-shedding tool to remove excess undercoat will reduce shedding and help with airflow.”
Unsure if your canine is a double-coated doggo? Speak with your vet, research your dog’s breed, or talk to a groomer for their advice.
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How Often Should I Groom My Dog in the Summer?
Morgan says you should plan to have your dog groomed at least every 4-6 weeks in the summertime, depending on how much maintenance their coat requires, and some breeds may require more frequent grooming.
“Breeds with longer or thicker coats, such as golden retrievers or shih tzus, may need more frequent grooming to prevent matting and manage shedding,” says Morgan.
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And if your dog loves to cool off in a backyard kitty pool or nearby pond, make sure to give their coat a once-over with a towel post-swim, and a brush if they’re super curly, to prevent residual moisture from leading to hot spots. The same advice goes for dog parents who live in a more humid climate.
“If you live in a humid climate, always do your best to completely dry your dog after any water-related activities,” Morgan says. “Dogs with double coats commonly get moisture trapped close to the skin that can lead to skin infections and hot spots.”
And regardless of dog breed, everyone needs a bath. You should pop your dog in the bathtub every 3-4 weeks in the summer, Morgan says, depending on how active they are outdoors. Just be sure to only bathe when necessary and to use products made for your pup.
“Be cautious not to over bathe, as it can strip natural oils from [your dog’s] coat,” Morgan says. If you live in a dry environment, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Sulfate-free shampoos are a great choice if your dog requires more regular baths, Morgan says, as they are specially formulated to prevent dry skin.
Summer At-Home Grooming
If you prefer to leave dog grooming to the professionals, frequent summer grooming appointments can add up. But don’t fret—there’s a lot of grooming you can do at home, including:
- Regular nail trims to ensure comfortable walking
- Moisturize paw pads when spending time on potentially hot or rough surfaces
- Regular ear cleaning to prevent infections and reduce yeast, especially for avid swimmers
For more breed-specific summer grooming tips, you can always connect with your veterinarian or a professional groomer to help further tailor your dog’s grooming routine to their needs.