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It is hot, and if we have a dog with long or thick fur, we may have wondered at one time, would the dog feel more comfortable if we shaved him? Before we get out the clippers or run to the groomers, we must consider a few things.
First of all, you must know if your dog has a single or double coat, as this will impact your decision whether or not to share. Different coats have different needs, and their coats have different benefits and drawbacks in the heat. If your dog is a single coated dog, such as a poodle, then shaving may be an important grooming step to keep your dog cool. It is important to remember that fur provides protection against sunburn, so it should never be shaved too close to the skin. Keep at least an inch or so in place.
If your dog has a double coat, such as a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd you must tread more carefully. Undercoats and outercoats grow and shed at different rates so shaving now could impact your dog's ability to insulate in the winter. Which brings us to the next point in dogs with undercoats - that double coat insulates against the heat too! A better solution should be a good brushing that helps pull out the dead hairs from the undercoat.
If you are not sure what kind of coat your dog has, go for a consultation with a knowledgeable groomer or your vet to discuss your specific circumstances. And make sure you know the signs of heat related illnesses and how to keep your dog cool!
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