It's summer and it's hot. Many dog parents think it's a good idea to shave their dogs when the heat strikes, but is it really? It sounds like a great idea. Just looking at a hairy dog is enough to make a person start sweating.
However, many pet professionals actually discourage completely shaving a dog's fur for the summer, including the ASPCA. It seems like such a practical thing to do, so why not?
A dog's coat provides insulation. Many dogs have double coats which keep them warm in the winter months and cool in the summer months. Some dog experts claim that shaving your dog completely could actually further their risk for becoming overheated. It's OK to trim long fur up a bit and brushing can help get rid of extra fur.
Fur offers protection from the sun. The sun can be harmful to your dog's skin and they can get sunburned. Dogs can even get skin cancer. A dog's fur can help protect them from overexposure to the sun's rays.
The topic of shaving a dog for summer is a bit controversial in the dog community and many people choose to do it. Some veterinarians will even recommend it for certain breeds of dogs.
Depending on the breed of the dog, a shave may be practical. If you have a breed of dog that comes from a very cold climate, living in very hot climates can be hard for them. Imagine an Alaskan Malamute living in Texas where the temperatures can easily soar above 100 degrees during the summer. Extra care should be taken with breeds of dogs with thick coats during the summer to prevent heat exhaustion.
If a dog spends a lot of time outdoors, extra attention should be given to proper grooming. Long-haired dogs can become easily matted. Mats can cause a dog discomfort and pain.
Also, dogs who's coats are not taken care of properly can actually house maggots in their fur. This is mostly common in dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors when it's hot out. Definitely not something any pet parent wants to deal with.
To shave or not to shave? Whichever path you choose, make sure it's an informed decision based on your dog's breed and coat type. Your veterinarian should be able to help you with any questions you may have about shaving your dog for the summer.
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