Health & Wellness - May 2021

Heatwave approaching! Should you shave you pet's coat?

Summer is around the corner and as pet owners, our first instinct might be to send our pup to the groomer.  Like dog breeds, coat length varies and what might be best for one dog could leave another dog panting for help.  Here are some helpful tips to better understand your dog's needs during the hot summer months. 

A majority of dog breeds are double-coated. Some breeds are bred to handle colder climates, be in the water for long periods of time or running through fields. Their coat is there to protect them from these elements. Your pet may not serve the way they were originally bred to their coat and should never be significantly altered. 

Long-coated and winter breeds: In the summer, these breeds might be miserable at the beach, but they were bred to benefit from having a longer coat. These types of coats have a mix of both coarse guard hairs and fuzzy undercoat hairs. The balance of the hair allows these breeds to cool themselves naturally by reflecting light and heat. It may seem like your dog is melting in the sun, but they are more comfortable than you think. Panting is a normal process for dogs to regulate their body temperature. 

Small dogs with long coats: There are no benefits for small dogs with longer coats to shave their coat. It disrupts the natural balance and cooling function of their coat. It is recommended to consult with a professional groomer before deciding on a shorter haircut. 

Wire-coated coats: These breeds can be shaved if proper precautions are taken. Wire-haired coats require carding or stripping before shaving to remove dead hair from the dog's coat and allow the new hair to grow in its place. If you do not strip the dead coat before shaving, the coat could lose color, or the hair could get stuck beneath the skin's surface and cause skin issues. 

Shaving your pet's coat in the summer can affect the skin. Just like humans, your dog can sunburn in the summer especially if his coat is cut too short. You can apply sunblock to the dog's sensitive spots including the ears and underside. 

Good grooming is necessary year-round and should be a regular routine with your pet. Hotter temperatures and increased outdoor activity do require extra care.