Best Summer Grooming Practices in the California Heat!
Summer in Orange County means beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and unfortunately, scorching temperatures that can be tough on our furry friends. As temperatures climb, proper grooming becomes not just about keeping your dog looking good, but about their health and comfort too. I've spent years helping pet parents navigate the California heat, and I'm excited to share some tried-and-true summer grooming practices that will keep your pup cool and comfortable all season long.
Understanding Your Dog's Summer Needs & How to Keep a Dog Cool During the Summer
Before we dive into specific grooming tips, let's talk about why summer grooming is so important. Dogs don't sweat like we do – they primarily cool themselves by panting and through the pads of their feet. This makes them especially vulnerable to overheating in our Orange County summers, where temperatures can easily soar into the 90s.
The Great Shaving Debate: Should I Shave My Dog in Summer?
This is probably the most common question we get when temperatures rise. The short answer? Usually not.
Contrary to what seems logical, shaving most dogs can actually make them more susceptible to overheating and sunburn. Your dog's coat provides natural insulation and protection from the sun's harmful rays.
For double-coated breeds like Huskies, German Shepherds, Great Pyrenees, and Golden Retrievers, their undercoat serves as natural temperature regulation. Shaving these breeds can permanently damage their coat's texture and growth patterns.
However, there are exceptions. Some breeds with continuously growing hair (not fur) like Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichons can benefit from shorter summer cuts. These "dogs summer cut" styles keep them cooler while maintaining enough length to protect their skin.
If you want to learn more about whether or not you should shave your dog in the summer, check out this post answering all of your dog shaving questions!
3 Best Summer Grooming Practices for How to Keep a Dog Cool in the Summer
1. Regular Brushing is Your Best Friend
We can't stress this enough – daily brushing is crucial during summer months. It helps remove loose fur and prevents matting, which can trap heat against your dog's skin.
For double-coated breeds:
- Use an undercoat rake 2-3 times weekly
- Follow with a slicker brush to remove loose fur
- Finish with a bristle brush for shine
For single-coated or short-haired breeds:
- A rubber curry brush works wonders
- Brush in the direction of hair growth
- Even short-haired dogs need regular brushing!
2. Professional Grooming Services
While at-home maintenance is important, professional grooming every 4-6 weeks during summer offers benefits you can't achieve at home:
- Proper thinning techniques that reduce bulk without damaging the coat's protective qualities
- Sanitary trims to keep sensitive areas clean and cool
- Paw pad trimming to remove excess fur between pads that can trap heat
We at Pup Scouts would absolutely love to help keep your dog cool during the summer with our mobile grooming services! You don’t even have to leave your house!
3. Bathing Practices to Keep Dogs Cool
Bathing your dog properly can significantly help them stay cool:
- Use lukewarm water (never hot)
- Choose a moisturizing, dog-specific shampoo to prevent dry skin
- Consider an occasional cool (not cold) rinse on extremely hot days
- Always dry thoroughly, especially in skin folds to prevent hot spots
We keep unscented baby wipes in the refrigerator for quick cool-downs on our dog's paws and belly during heat waves!
Beyond Grooming: Additional Ways to Keep Pets Cool in Summer
While grooming is essential, it's just one part of summer heat management:
Cooling Products Worth Trying
- Cooling mats provide a chilled surface for your dog to rest on
- Elevated beds allow air circulation underneath your dog
- Cooling bandanas can be soaked in water and worn around the neck
Hydration and Timing
- Always have fresh water available
- Walk early morning or evening when temperatures are lower
- Consider indoor enrichment activities like dog puzzles or a fun frozen treat during peak heat hours
Signs Your Dog Is Overheating
Even with perfect grooming, it's important to watch for signs of heat distress:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Lethargy or disorientation
- Vomiting or diarrhea
If you notice these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area immediately and contact your vet.
Summer Grooming Schedule for Orange County Dog Parents
To make this practical, here's a summer grooming schedule you can follow:
| Frequency | Grooming Task |
| Daily | Brushing, check paws for hot pavement burns |
| Weekly | Check ears and eyes, wipe down with cool cloth |
| Bi-Weekly | Bath (if needed), nail trim |
| Monthly | Professional grooming appointment |
Final Thoughts on Summer Dog Grooming
The California heat doesn't have to mean summer misery for your four-legged friend. With thoughtful grooming practices and heat management strategies, your dog can enjoy summer just as much as you do.
Remember that each dog is unique – what works for one might not work for another. Pay attention to your dog's comfort level and adjust accordingly. And when in doubt, consult with a professional groomer who understands the specific needs of dogs in our Orange County climate.
What summer grooming practices have worked best for your dog? I'd love to hear your experiences in the comments below or tag us on Instagram!
