Dog grooming in the summer does not necessarily mean getting the “buzz-cut.” Dog owners may think that they are providing their dogs relief, but may actually may be increasing their dog’s discomfort.

For some dogs their coat provides insulation and protection against ultraviolet rays. Dogs don’t sweat like us. Dogs pant and sweat through their paws. Plus the sun is hard on dogs’ skin especially if they have a long coat. Although dogs do not tan, they do burn.

So what should dog owners do? According to Erica Richter, owner of Salon Poochini in Bal Harbor, FL the best thing you can do for your dog’s skin and coat is to keep your dog well-groomed. A healthy coat, no matter what the length, is always better than a shorter one that is tangled and matted. Tangles and mats can actually lead to dry skin and hot spots.

Even well-groomed dogs can face other summer skin irritants. Fleas and ticks are always unwelcome summer guests. So it’s important to have a good reliable flea/tick control product.

And finally consider switching to a good dog shampoo that has a built in conditioner. Dogs tend to get more baths in the summer as they are outdoors more and getting dirtier. Frequent shampooing can actually dry your dog’s skin adding to his discomfort. So its good to supplement bathing with deodorizing spritzes and waterless foam shampoos to keep your dog looking and smelling great.

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