Keeping your dog groomed and well maintained is important at any time of the year, but especially so in the hot summer months. Pampering your pooch can make the difference between an enjoyable hot weather season or one where they are miserable, fatigued and at risk of heat stroke.
Grooming is also a great way to bond with your pet, as it's a chance for you to spend time together and if done properly, your dog will enjoy the experience of having the skin and coat massaged and brushed. These are the main focus points for grooming your dog in the summer.
This should be done as regularly as possible during the hot weather. It will remove any dead or malted hair, instantly allowing your dog to feel lighter and cooler. It removes any debris and dust that your dog may have picked up in the garden or out on walks, which can often lead to allergies if allowed to sit in sweaty fur for too long. It also gives you an opportunity to check for fleas and ticks, pests which like to breed during the warmer conditions. Select a brush or comb that is suited to your dogs hair, whether it be thick or fine, matted or smooth. This will help your dog to get used to the experience much more quickly and actually allow them to enjoy it.
Some dogs love it, some hate it, but bathing is a necessity for keeping the skin and coat in good condition. Brush your dog before tempting them into the bath - an Aquapaw Slow Treater Bath Time Feeder could help you with that - as the fur will be much easier to scrub and rinse if it is knot free. Ensure the water is not too hot or too cold, then start from the neck and work your way down the body, avoiding the face and ears as much as possible. Use a sensitive shampoo to lather up the suds and really work your fingers into the coat. Many dogs will love this massage, so if done correctly you may never need to persuade them into the bath again! There is a wide range of shampoos and conditioners to choose from, with lots of lovely fragrances that you both will love.
If your dog is particularly furry with a thick coat that seems to grow uncontrollably during the summer, a trim might be in order. Dog clippers are very easy to use and will be gentle on your dog's coat. If your dog is not comfortable with being shaved, this might be the time to take them to a professional groomer. They will know exactly how to approach the situation and will have lots of different tools at their disposal. If the hair simply needs a trim around the ears, tail and tummy areas, you can do this yourself with a pair of grooming scissors. Have someone there to hold your dog still whilst you work, being extremely careful around these sensitive areas so that you do not catch the skin. Once the coat has been thinned out your dog will thank you for being so much cooler and comfortable in the summer heat.
Whilst you are grooming your dog's hair, it is also a good time to trim their nails. They can often become sharp and uncomfortable, taking a very long time to wear down naturally, if at all. Choose a strong pair of nail clippers or scissors and trim them gently, after a bath if possible as the nails will be a little softer. You may need to ask someone to help hold your dog still at this point, just to ensure that you do not hurt them with the scissors if they move suddenly.
Regular grooming can really improve the wellbeing and temperament of your dog, especially in the summer months where the heat can cause discomfort. Browse our full range of dog grooming accessories to ensure you have everything you need to make the process as easy as possible for both you and your dog.
