Dog Grooming: Should I Shave Down My Dog for Summer?

As a former dog groomer I heard this question many times from clients. Some pet owners think their dog is too hot in the summer for a heavy coat. Others want less hair flying around the house. No matter the reason, there are some dogs that should not be shaved down or given a field clip.

Outside Dogs
If you keep your dog outside during the summer you should not shave him down. While you have the best intentions in mind, removing all of the dog's fur is likely to cause more harm than good. Dogs do sunburn. Their fur helps protect them from the harmful rays and helps insulate them against the heat. The best thing a pet owner can do is to always provide adequate cool shade and plenty of cold water for an outside dog. Use a shedding comb to remove the undercoat also helps and cuts down on shedding. Bring the pet in during extremely hot days.

Herding and Other Double Coated Dogs
German Shepherds and other double coated breeds (Shetland Sheepdog, Corgi, Golden Retriever) should never be shaved down except for medical purposes. The outer coat on these dogs reflects heat away from the their bodies. The coat also has oils in it that keep the dog's skin healthy. Shaving the dog can lead to dry skin issues.

Once you shave the dog, the hair may come in differently and will have a different texture than before. It's best to keep double coated dogs indoors during extreme heat. Schedule a full grooming with a professional when the shedding is at its heaviest to cut down on the fur flying in the home.

Expenses of Shaving Dogs Down
Consider the temperament of your dog. If the dog is large and hard to handle it will likely cost more money to have the dog shaved by a groomer. Even small dogs may not like the process. Again, the price will go up according to the amount of work involved. If the dog develops skin problems as a result of the field clip, it may require a veterinarian.

I've seen dogs of all sizes run to hide after being shaved down. Others of the same breed love the experience. You have to get to know your dog and take into account any health issues that may arise from a field clip. Consider a puppy cut or a teddy bear trim instead if you don't mind a small amount of daily grooming.

References:
Personal: Professional dog groomer for 10 years

Oregon State Extension: Catch Pen (Page 7)
The Dog House - Grooming Tips by K-9 Companion