When the heat rises, grooming becomes less about beauty and more about keeping your dog cool, healthy, and safe from heat-induced troubles. However, summer grooming often comes with a mixture of myths and misconceptions that can mislead pet owners into harming their pets.
Whether you are grooming at home or relying on pet grooming in Abu Dhabi, knowing the dos and don’ts of summer grooming is common sense and makes a whole difference in giving your dog an enjoyable summer without a lot of suffering.
Common Summer Grooming Myths for Dogs
Summer heat calls for a different approach to treating the coat of the dog. However, some summer ideas about dog grooming are simply wrong. Here are some myths that would deceive pet owners.
Myth 1: Shaving a Dog’s Coat Keeps Them Cool
Shaving appears to be a reasonably simple way to help a dog withstand the heat. Such is not the case because fur provides a natural sunblock for a dog, protecting its skin from dreadfully damaging UV rays. Removing it entirely exposes them to sunburn and skin damage, potentially making them suffer more in hot weather.
Instead of shaving, trim long fur and keep the coat clean and well-brushed to allow air to pass through easily.
Myth 2: Bathing More Often Will Help Prevent Heat Stroke
A cool bath provides a refreshing feeling, but bathing can cause its own set of problems when done excessively. Bathing removes natural oils from the skin and coat, resulting in dry skin, irritation, and increased susceptibility to infections.
Bathing as necessary should normally happen about once a month or when your dog gets dirty. Use a dog-specific shampoo that is gentle and promotes moisture and protects the skin.
Myth 3: Dogs Don’t Need Grooming in Summer
Reducing the grooming session might seem tempting during summer, as one would think less grooming would help with the shedding or growth of a dog. In reality, summer grooming is important all year long. As such, extra care of the coat is required in hot weather to minimize further complications with the shedding of fur, skin problems, and keeping the dog cool and comfortable.
Good summer grooming contributes to mat prevention, dead fur removal, and identification of many early signs of irritations or parasites.
Classic Summer Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Taking care of your dog’s summer coat means avoiding some common pitfalls. These mistakes may cause much discomfort and health hazards to your beloved dog. However, developing good habits can enable you to prevent them effortlessly.
Mistake 1: Ignoring Paw Care in Hot Weather
Your dog’s paws are on the front line when it comes to heat. Hot pavement or sand can burn and crack paw pads, making it painful to walk or play outside.
Here are the things that protect those paws:
- Avoid walking your dog on hot surfaces, especially during midday.
- Soothing and protecting pads with paw balm or moisturizer for dogs
- Trim any excess fur between the paw pads to prevent dirt buildup
- Consider using protective booties on extremely hot days.
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Grooming Tools for Summer Coats
Not all grooming tools work the same when it comes to summer coats. Heavy clippers or the wrong brushes can bruise the skin and leave an uneven coat on dogs.
Always look for the gentle de-shedding brushes, undercoat-combing combs, and grooming scissors for grooming long fur. These give just enough control over shedding without taking away too much fur or irritating skin.
Mistake 3: Failing to Check Skin Irritations and Parasites
The extra heat and outdoor activity make fleas, ticks, and skin rashes even more probable. Missing signs of irritation at grooming can lead to further compromise.
Make the most out of your grooming sessions by:
- Checking for signs of redness, bumps, or bald patches on the skin
- Searching for ticks, fleas, and any other pests
- Documenting any noticeable odors or excessive scratching behavior
- Discuss with your veterinarian any noticeable signs of infection or discomfort.
Understanding the true benefits of dog grooming goes beyond appearance. It is about early detection, comfort, and seasonal protection. If done properly, grooming becomes one of the best ways to safeguard your dog’s health during summer.
Must-Do Summer Grooming Procedures for Dogs
Proper summer grooming balances hygiene, comfort, and a heat barrier. Here are a few crucial habits that will keep both you and your dog in good spirits through the season.
1. Regular Brushing for Shedding Control
Brushing removes loose hair and prevents mats that trap heat and create discomfort. Also, brushing helps in the even distribution of the dog’s natural oils, which is beneficial for coat health.
2. Bath Properly and at the Right Frequency
Bathing your dog with lukewarm water will help. You can use dog-friendly shampoos that are moisturizing and won’t dry up skin. Avoid giving your pup a cold bath as this could shock him, and also avoid giving him a bath with hot water as it will dry his skin further in the worst way.
It is best not to bathe more than once every few weeks unless your dog is visibly dirty. Always dry your dog thoroughly, especially around folds in the skin and between toes.
3. Pampering of the Paws & Protection
Healthy paws ensure happy adventures for your dog. Keep their nails trimmed so they won’t feel discomfort. Keep their paw pads moisturized so they can avoid burning on hot ground. You may also want to consider using paw wax or booties if your dog walks on very rough terrain. Make sure to regularly check paws for cuts, swelling, or any debris.
4. Protect Against the Sun and Cool Down
The sun can burn dogs, especially on the tips of their noses, ears, and bellies. Apply sunblock that is safe for pets, especially before long outdoor sessions.
Along with that, you should have cooling products, such as cooling mats or vests, to help with temperature management. Shade and fresh water should always be made available.
Conclusion
Summer grooming for dogs isn’t just about looking good. It’s about keeping your dog protected and comfortable in the heat. Myths such as shaving for coolness and over-bathing, and mistakes such as neglecting paw care or missing signs of irritation, should be avoided. What is rather important is regular brushing, careful bathing, paw protection, and sun safety.
If you are short on time or prefer professional care at home, mobile dog grooming in Abu Dhabi is a convenient way to keep up with your dog’s summer grooming needs. Getting all these right will surely keep your pet dog happier and healthier all summer long, making for an even better summer for both of you.