Should You Shave Your Dog in the Summer? (Spoiler: Not Always!)

Ah, summer. The season of sunshine, barbecues, and fur—lots of fur. If your dog is leaving fluffy reminders of themselves on every surface, it can be tempting to grab the clippers and give them that “summertime shave.”

But before you turn your pup into a mini lion, it’s important to understand why not all dogs should be shaved—and how proper grooming can keep them comfortable, healthy, and looking great.

Not All Coats Are Created Equal

Just like we’ve got a closet full of clothing for every season, dogs come equipped with their own built-in wardrobe—it’s called a coat.

Some dogs have single coats (think Poodles, Maltese), while others wear a double coat (like Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Huskies, and Shelties). That double coat is made up of a soft, insulating undercoat and a tougher outer layer that helps regulate body temperature year-round.

When you shave a double-coated dog, you’re not just giving them a new ‘do—you’re removing their natural defense system. That fur acts like a thermos: keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer by insulating against heat and helping protect their skin from sunburn (yes, dogs get sunburn too!).

After shaving, their coat may grow back patchy, coarse, or may not properly insulate again.

But It’s Hot—What Can I Do Instead?

That’s a fair question. We want our dogs to stay comfortable too. That’s where regular grooming becomes your dog’s best friend (well… second-best friend after you).

Instead of shaving, here’s what can help:

De-shedding treatments
These remove excess undercoat without damaging the outer layer. Less shedding and a happier pup.

Regular brushing
Keeps the coat smooth and helps reduce shedding. Plus, it’s bonding time.

Trims (for certain breeds)
Dogs with hair instead of fur (like Havanese or Shih Tzus) benefit from a summer trim, but this is very different from a shave.

Baths with coat-safe shampoo
Helps loosen fur and keeps skin healthy. A cool rinse is even better.



And most importantly—talk to your groomer. They can guide you based on your dog’s breed and coat type.

Local Groomers That Know Their Stuff

Need help in Abbotsford? The ever-gentle Debbie and awesome team at Abbotsford Dog & Cat Grooming specialize in smaller breeds. Or check out Tracey Primrose of The Wagging Tail, Leslie and team at The Doggy Shop—all located in Abbotsford and they all know their way around a double coat (and a wiggly customer).

• Abbotsford Dog & Cat Grooming – https://www.facebook.com/AbbotsfordDogCatGrooming
• The Wagging Tail – https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Wagging-Tail-100057232428833/
• The Doggy Shop – https://www.doggyshopgrooming.com/
• Fresh Fido Grooming – https://www.facebook.com/freshfidogrooming/

Trust the Fluff

At the end of the day, your dog’s coat is there for a reason. With a little extra TLC, it can keep them cool on summer walks, protect them on sunny days, and even reduce shedding in the house.

Still tempted to shave? Chat with your groomer first. Your pup will thank you—with tail wags, not sunburns.

Want to learn more about why shaving a double coat could be more risky than rewarding? Here’s a great resource: https://www.petmd.com/dog/grooming/evr_dg_summer_shave