1. Brush Regularly
Brushing your dog's coat regularly helps to remove loose fur and prevent matting, which can trap heat and cause discomfort. It also helps to distribute natural oils throughout the fur, keeping the coat healthy and shiny. Here are some tips to effectively brush your dog's coat:
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Choose the most suitable brush for your dog’s coat type. Common types include slicker brushes, bristle brushes, and shedding tools.
Create a comfortable environment. Find a quiet and well-lit area where you and your dog can comfortably brush - Begin brushing your dog's coat with gentle strokes, working from the head towards the tail.
- Brush in the direction of hair growth
- Pay extra attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
2. Trim the Fur
If your dog has a long or thick coat, consider trimming or shaving it to keep them cool and prevent overheating. During the summer, your dog’s fur is prone to matting, getting dirty and sweaty, and also collecting parasites like fleas and ticks. Trimming helps prevent all of this.
However, it's important to note that not all dogs should have their fur trimmed in the summer. Some breeds have fur that serves as insulation and protection from the sun, so cutting it too short may expose them to sunburn or skin damage.
It's best to consult with a professional groomer or your veterinarian to determine the appropriate length and style of trim for your dog, taking into account their breed, coat type, and individual needs.
3. Bathe them Frequently
Regular bathing can help remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria from your dog's fur and skin, which can prevent skin irritations and infections. Use lukewarm water and a dog-specific shampoo and avoid bathing too frequently, as this can dry out the skin. In general, bathing your dog every 4-8 weeks is often sufficient for most dogs during the summer. If they get visibly dirty, develop a strong odour, or their coat becomes excessively oily or greasy, it may be time for a bath.
4. Check for Parasites
Ticks and fleas thrive during the summer months, so checking your dog regularly for these parasites is crucial. Carefully inspect your dog’s body all over, including the paws, between the toes and in their fur using a flea comb. Use a tick and flea preventative recommended by your veterinarian.
5. Protect their Paws
It’s said that one can fry an egg on the sidewalks during the summer.
With temperatures so high, hot surfaces like pavements or sand can burn your dog's paw pads. It is best to walk them during cooler parts of the day, in grassy areas. You can also protect their paws with booties or paw wax or apply a pet-safe paw balm or moisturizer to prevent cracking and dryness.
Maintaining proper paw hygiene by trimming their paw fur and wiping them regularly is a good start.
6. Keep their Ears Clean
Dogs with floppy ears are prone to ear infections during the summer months. Make sure to check your dog's ears regularly for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odour. These can be indications of an ear infection or other ear-related issues
Clean their ears regularly with a dog-specific ear cleaner to prevent infection, and make sure to never insert any cotton swabs or sharp objects inside.
Grooming for your dog should be regular to help keep them hygienic and healthy, but even more so in these summer months.
By following and implementing just a few of these grooming tips, you can help your pet spend the summer feeling cool and comfortable! If you have any concerns about your dog's health or grooming routine, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian for expert advice.
