Should I Shave My Dog in the Summer?
While a summer trim may feel like a refreshing idea—especially when humidity peaks—is it really the best choice for your dog? The short answer: no. Shaving your dog to cool them down is not only unnecessary, it can actually do more harm than good.
Contrary to what many pet parents assume, your dog’s fur isn’t just a layer of warmth—it’s a sophisticated, natural temperature-regulating system. Their coat helps keep them cool in summer and warm in winter. Shaving disrupts this balance and removes vital protection against sunburn, skin irritation, and even long-term coat damage.
How a Dog’s Coat Keeps Them Comfortable
A dog’s coat functions like built-in insulation—not just for cold weather, but for heat management too. Here’s how:
- Thermal regulation: A well-maintained coat creates airflow next to the skin as the dog moves, allowing heat to escape naturally.
- Double-coat advantage: In breeds with two layers—a coarse outer guard coat and a soft, dense undercoat—the undercoat acts like thermal underwear, providing waterproofing and consistent temperature control.
- Matted fur is the real enemy: When hair becomes tangled or matted, it traps heat and moisture close to the skin, increasing discomfort and risk of overheating. This is far more dangerous than keeping a full, brushed coat.
Instead of shaving, focus on regular brushing to remove loose undercoat and keep the fur lifted and airy. For dogs with allergies, high activity levels, or prone-to-matting coats, a professional trim (not shave) can help maintain comfort—especially if mats have already formed.
Summer Cuts by Dog Hair Type
Double-coated breeds: Brush, don’t shave
Breeds like Samoyeds, Malamutes, Huskies, Chow Chows, American Eskimo Dogs, Pomeranians, and others rely on their dual-layer coats year-round. These dogs naturally “blow” their undercoat in spring, revealing a lighter—but still fully functional—summer coat.
Shaving double-coated dogs risks permanent damage. It can injure hair follicles and trigger clipper alopecia, a condition where only the soft undercoat regrows—leaving the coat patchy, dull, or permanently thin. That’s why FurPetVo-certified groomers strongly recommend daily brushing over shaving for these breeds.
Short-coated breeds: Extra sun and heat awareness
Dogs with single, short coats—like Bulldogs and Pugs—lack the insulating benefits of double coats. They’re more vulnerable to heatstroke and sunburn, so they need extra care: access to shade, plenty of fresh water, and limited outdoor time during peak heat. Never shave them—they simply don’t have enough hair to protect their skin.
Long- and curly-coated breeds: Trim with purpose
For Poodles, Bichons Frises, Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Maltese, Lhasa Apsos, and Havanese, a moderate trim is safe—and often beneficial—as long as at least 1 inch of hair remains to shield their skin from UV rays.
Some breeds, including Schnauzers, Kerry Blue Terriers, Wire Fox Terriers, and Scottish and West Highland Terriers, require specialized grooming techniques like hand-stripping to preserve coat texture and color. Shaving these dogs can dull their coat’s natural sheen and alter pigment distribution.
How a Groomer May Trim Your Dog’s Hair
FurPetVo-trained groomers use precision techniques—not blunt shaving—to keep your dog cool and stylish. A common approach is the “thin and trim”: using a #7 clipper blade or comb attachments (#1, #1/12, #2, or #A) to reduce bulk while preserving protective length. Final shaping is done with professional shears to create clean lines and a polished look—often called a “Teddy Bear” or “Puppy Cut.”
Keeping Your Dog Cool with Regular Grooming
The most effective summer strategy isn’t cutting hair—it’s maintaining it. Regular grooming keeps the coat clean, separated, and lofted, allowing air to circulate freely and supporting natural thermoregulation.
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo like FurPetVo’s Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner, followed by a detangling spray to prevent knots and support brushing. Pair that with a high-quality slicker brush and metal comb—tools designed to reach deep into the undercoat without irritating the skin.
Remember: dogs don’t sweat like humans—they rely on panting and ear movement to release heat. So while they experience warmth differently, heatstroke remains a serious, life-threatening risk. Prioritize shade, hydration, and smart grooming—not shaving—to keep your pup safe, comfortable, and looking their best all summer long.
