Summer coats, heat & your pet’s fur ☀️🫧
when summer hits, one of the biggest questions pet parents ask is:
“should i shave my dog’s coat off for the heat?”
the answer? not always 👁️
a lot of pets actually rely on their coat to help regulate body temperature and protect their skin from direct sun exposure. completely shaving certain coat types can sometimes make overheating worse, not better.
so what should you do during warmer months?
brush, brush, brush 🧽
regular brushing helps remove:
- trapped undercoat
- loose fur
- dirt + buildup
this allows air to flow through the coat much more easily and helps keep pets comfortable in the heat.
matted fur can trap heat close to the body and make summer much harder on your pet.
keep the coat clean 🫧
a clean coat is a healthier coat. buildup from dirt, oils, and outdoor play can weigh the coat down and affect airflow.
gentle bathing with hydrating products can help the coat feel lighter, softer, and more manageable during hot weather.
trims > full shaves ✂️
for many pets, a light summer trim is often better than fully shaving down to the skin.
certain breeds with double coats especially benefit from:
- deshedding
- thinning
- sanitary trims
- paw pad trims
rather than complete shaving.
don’t forget the paws 👁️
hot pavement can seriously irritate paw pads during summer walks.
try to:
- walk earlier mornings or evenings
- avoid peak heat hours
- moisturize dry paw pads regularly
- test pavement with your hand first
if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
signs your pet may be overheating 🚨
watch for:
- excessive panting
- drooling
- lethargy
- bright red gums
- weakness
- vomiting
always provide:
- cool water
- shade
- breaks from outdoor heat
and contact your vet if symptoms seem severe.
summer grooming isn’t about making pets look “perfect.” it’s about helping them stay comfortable, healthy, and happy while still embracing all the weird + wonderful fluff that makes them who they are 💚
-love, the monstr pets team 👁️💚