Summer is almost here. That means it’s time to start thinking about your dog’s summer haircut. While some people shave their pets short during the summer, others prefer to leave the hair long. As long as your pet doesn’t have any mats in their fur, there are numerous haircuts to choose from. Summer is the perfect time to experiment with a new haircut.
Shaving
Despite what many people believe, shaving your pet does not make them cooler in the summer. A pet’s coat helps keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer, regardless of how long it is. However, there are exceptions to this rule.
Our Southern California heat can reach extreme temperatures. Dogs with heavy coats designed for year round cold climates might have a harder time staying cool throughout summer. Unfortunately, many of these breeds are not meant to be shaved completely. They have a double coat and shaving them can actually affect the way it grows back. For these dogs, we recommend a tummy shave. This allows them to lay on cold floors to cool off, without affecting the integrity of their coat.
Shedding
Another common belief is that shaving your dog will help prevent shedding. Unfortunately, this isn’t true. Short haired breeds still shed when shaved, the hair that falls is just shorter. These tiny hairs can become sharp little slinters, sticking into everything they encounter.
Dirt Build-Up
Certain breeds like cocker spaniels and poodles have a lot of thick hair on their legs. This hair can collect sand, dirt, and other debris during a trip to the beach. If your plan to take your pet to the beach this summer, you might want to consider keeping the fur on their legs short.
Personal Preference
Personal preference is the main factor when it comes to choosing a summer haircut. As Orange County’s premier grooming salon, we’ve seen everything from traditional breed cuts to Mohawks. If you’re unsure what’s best, please stop by our salon to discuss your options with our experienced groomers.