Summer Grooming Tips for Dogs
July 11, 2023As the temperature rises and we enter the hot summer months, it's essential to modify our grooming practices to ensure our canine companions remain cool, comfortable, and healthy. Proper grooming is crucial not just for a dog's appearance, but also for their wellbeing. Here are some key summer grooming tips that can help you keep your dog in the best of health this season.
1. Regular Brushing
Regular brushing is crucial, regardless of the season, as it helps remove loose fur and reduce shedding. However, in the summer months, it becomes even more important. Brushing your dog not only keeps their coat looking neat but also improves air circulation to the skin, helping them stay cool (RSPCA, 2018).
If your dog has a long coat, consider a daily brushing routine to prevent matting and tangling, which can be uncomfortable and even cause skin conditions. For short-haired breeds, brushing every few days is usually sufficient (American Kennel Club, 2020).
2. Bathing
While it may seem like a good idea to bathe your dog more frequently during summer, overbathing can strip essential oils from their coat, leading to dry and itchy skin. Generally, most dogs should be bathed once a month. However, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, you may need to bathe them more frequently to remove dirt and prevent parasites (VCA Hospitals, 2020).
Remember to use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo that won't irritate their skin. If your dog swims in a pool, lake, or ocean, rinse their coat with fresh water afterward to remove chlorine, salt, and other harmful substances (VCA Hospitals, 2020).
3. Coat Trimming
You might be tempted to shave your dog's coat short to keep them cool during summer. While trimming can help, it's critical not to shave the coat too close to the skin. Dogs' coats provide them with heat relief and protect their skin from harmful UV rays. Therefore, leaving about an inch of hair can help protect your dog from sunburn while still helping them stay cool (American Kennel Club, 2020).
For dogs with thick undercoats, such as Huskies or Golden Retrievers, avoid shaving entirely as their undercoat helps regulate their body temperature. Instead, regular brushing to remove excess fur is more beneficial (RSPCA, 2018).
4. Paw Care
Hot pavement can cause painful burns on your dog's paws. To protect your dog's feet, try to walk them early in the morning or late in the evening when the pavement is cooler. Check their paws regularly for any signs of injury, and consider using dog booties for added protection (American Kennel Club, 2020).
5. Parasite Control
Summer is prime time for fleas, ticks, and other parasites, which can cause discomfort and lead to serious health issues. Regular grooming can help you spot these pests early. Use a flea comb to check your dog's coat, especially after they've been outdoors. Additionally, ensure your dog is up-to-date on their flea and tick preventative treatments (American Kennel Club, 2020).
6. Hydration
While not directly related to grooming, ensuring your dog stays hydrated is crucial for their overall health and well-being during the hot summer months. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water for your dog, both indoors and during outdoor activities (RSPCA, 2018).
Summers can be a great time for outdoor fun with your canine companion. With these grooming tips, you can help your dog stay comfortable and healthy throughout the season. Remember, everydog is different, so it's essential to adjust your grooming practices according to your dog's breed, coat type, and individual needs.
References:- RSPCA. (2018). How to groom your dog. https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/grooming- American Kennel Club. (2020). How to Groom Your Dog: Basic Grooming Tips. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/grooming-tips/- VCA Hospitals. (2020). Grooming and Coat Care for Your Dog. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/grooming-and-coat-care-for-your-dog