Introduction: Real Experience First
Last July, a client walked into our center worried about her Golden Retriever panting heavily in the UAE heat. Thinking it was the best solution, she had shaved the dog’s coat completely. Within days, the dog developed skin irritation and even mild sunburn. This experience raises an important debate many pet parents face: Is shaving dogs in summer really better than regular grooming? At Jackpet, we’ve worked with countless dogs in the UAE, and our experience shows the answer isn’t as simple as it looks.
Why Pet Owners Consider Shaving in Summer
UAE summers are harsh, and many owners believe a shorter coat automatically means cooler pets. While shaving may seem like a quick fix, it doesn’t always align with canine biology. A dog’s coat often works as insulation, keeping heat out and regulating body temperature. Shaving without considering breed or coat type can cause more harm than good.
For those unsure, professional services like Pet Grooming Abu Dhabi provide tailored solutions that prioritize comfort and health over shortcuts.
Benefits and Risks of Shaving Dogs in Summer
Benefits of Shaving
- Reduces heavy shedding.
- Makes it easier to spot parasites like ticks and fleas.
- Can provide temporary relief for thick-coated breeds in extreme conditions.
Risks of Shaving
- Double-coated breeds (like Huskies or Retrievers) lose natural insulation.
- Higher risk of sunburn due to direct UV exposure.
- Hair may grow back unevenly or with texture changes.
- Skin irritation becomes more common without coat protection.
Regular Grooming: A Safer Alternative
Regular grooming offers a middle ground that keeps dogs comfortable without exposing them to risks. Key elements include:
- Brushing: Removes dead hair, reduces matting, and improves air circulation.
- Bathing: Keeps coats clean and skin healthy.
- Trimming: Shortens hair in problem areas like paws, belly, and behind the ears.
- Ear and nail care: Supports overall hygiene and comfort.
For many breeds, this routine achieves cooling and cleanliness without the dangers of full shaving.
Real Case in the UAE
A client with a Siberian Husky booked a session for Dog Grooming Abu Dhabi after noticing excessive shedding during summer. Instead of shaving, we recommended de-shedding treatments and light trimming. The Husky stayed cooler, retained its natural insulation, and avoided sun-related issues. This example shows how grooming strategies can be more effective than shaving, especially for double-coated breeds.
Expert Insights
Veterinarians and grooming experts agree that shaving should only be considered for certain breeds or medical conditions. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), most dogs benefit more from consistent grooming than from shaving, which can disrupt natural protection.
At Jackpet UAE, our approach combines expert evaluation of breed, coat type, and climate conditions before suggesting shaving. This ensures both safety and comfort for pets.
Authoritative References
- The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) highlights the risks of shaving double-coated breeds.
- PetMD advises regular brushing and coat care as a safer option than complete shaving.
- Studies confirm that coats help regulate body heat and protect against sun exposure.
These sources validate why shaving should not be the default solution for summer heat.
Practical Tips for Pet Owners
- Brush your dog at least twice a week during summer.
- Use grooming tools suited for your dog’s coat type.
- Provide shaded areas and plenty of water outdoors.
Schedule professional grooming regularly, especially before peak summer months.
Important Reminder Before Final Section
When building summer care routines, some owners focus only on clipping and baths but overlook alternatives like the use of dry shampoo for dogs. This option helps maintain coat freshness between grooming sessions without frequent water baths, which can sometimes dry out the skin.
Conclusion
The debate between shaving dogs in summer and regular grooming comes down to breed, coat type, and professional guidance. While shaving may provide short-term relief for some dogs, regular grooming offers safer, long-term comfort. At Jackpet UAE, we’ve helped countless pet parents make informed decisions that keep their dogs cool, healthy, and protected in the UAE’s extreme climate. When in doubt, consult experts who understand both the science of coat care and the unique challenges of summer heat.