Should You Shave Your Dog in the Summer?
It might seem logical, but it could actually have the opposite effect.
Reviewed by Alycia Washington
When temperatures begin to soar, you might wonder, should you shave your dog in the summer? After all, dogs are covered in fur, and logic would lead most of us to assume that those coats make dogs awfully warm in summer, especially for thick-coated breeds. However, those long coats can actually help keep dogs cool in summer.
Here's everything you need to know before shaving your dog this summer.
Is It a Good Idea to Shave Your Dog for Summer?
Shaving a dog necessarily doesn’t help keep them cooler. Shaving a double-coated dog changes the coat texture, eliminating their natural insulation against the sun and preventing air from reaching the skin to help cool them. When the hair grows back, it might not look the same as it did before. Some dogs never regain their original texture and look of their coat after being shaved. Shaving a dog too close to the skin also leaves them susceptible to sunburn.
Dog hair coats come in many different types, from smooth and sleek to long and thick. Dog coats can also be single (one layer of hair) or double (two layers of hair—a longer outer coat and a shorter undercoat). Dogs shed more when temperatures rise, so they have less hair for the warm months. Double-coated dogs shed most of their undercoat in summer, leaving just the longer outer coat, or guard hairs.
To help a double-coated dog stay cool, focus on these tips instead of shaving their hair:
Brushing their coat regularly to remove the shedding undercoat, especially during heavy shedding periods
Keep your dog indoors during extreme temperatures
Don't allow your dog to overexert themselves while playing in the heat
What Dog Breeds Should Not Be Shaved?
Shaving dogs with short coats is not necessary and increases the risk for sunburn. Most dogs can stay cool through panting. Shaving double-coated breeds is rarely recommended. For these dogs, focus on brushing instead. Some breeds with double coats include:
When Is It Okay to Shave a Dog?
Single-coated breeds that have continuously growing curly, wavy, or straight hair can be shaved any time of the year. The hair will grow back the same as before, without affecting the texture. Taking some of the length off these dogs in the summer months can help keep them cooler, but always be sure to leave the hair at least 1 inch long for sun protection—never shave any dog to the skin.
There are times when a double-coated dog with a very thick, profuse coat might benefit from having it shaved down. This is sometimes the case when breeds meant for or acclimated to cooler climates live in very hot places. Shaving may also help some dogs that have difficulties cooling off, such as brachycephalic dogs or dogs with other health issues. If your dog can’t seem to stay cool, focus on providing a safe environment and talk to your veterinarian. A trip to the groomer may be something to consider.
