Summer Grooming for Dogs: Myths, Mistakes, and Must-Dos

As the proud owner of a dog grooming business (and a very fluffy Labrador named Max), summer grooming is more than just a seasonal checklist- it’s a topic I live and breathe. Every year, as the temperatures rise, so do the myths flying around pet parks and Facebook groups. I wanted to share a real-world look into what’s actually going on with summer dog grooming, what pet owners are getting wrong, and what practices really work.

Myth1: Shaving My Dog Keeps Them Cooler

Let me guess-you’ve heard this one before. And maybe even believed it. It sounds logical, right? Less fur = less heat? Well… not exactly.

While shaving might seem like a great way to help dogs cool down, it can backfire, especially for double-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and Pomeranians. These dogs have a special insulating coat that actually helps regulate body temperature, keeping them cool in summer and warm in winter. Shaving them strips away this natural system.

“Shaving a double-coated breed can do more harm than good,” says Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer of the AKC. “It can lead to sunburn, overheating, and long-term coat damage.”

Takeaway? Trim, don’t shave. A tidy groom, de-shedding treatment, and regular brushing are better (and safer) ways to beat the heat.

Myth2: Dogs Don’t Need Sunscreen

This one feels like a joke until you realize it’s dangerously common. Yes, dogs can get sunburned- especially those with thin coats, light skin, or exposed noses and bellies. I’ve seen this firsthand with clients’ dogs who love sunbathing more than lounging under the A/C.

Now, I’m not saying you should raid your own sunscreen stash. Human sunscreen often contains zinc oxide, which is toxic to dogs. Instead, opt for pet-safe sunscreen sprays or balms. They’re not just gimmicks; they really work and are recommended by most vets.

Myth3: Bathing My Dog Frequently Is Bad

Here’s where things get nuanced. Frequent baths can strip natural oils if you’re using harsh shampoos or overdoing it. But using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo once every couple of weeks during summer- especially after beach days or muddy hikes-can help your dog stay clean and healthy.

I usually recommend oatmeal-based or aloe-infused shampoos for dogs with sensitive skin. And yes, if your dog rolled in something unspeakable (again), don’t hesitate-lather up.

Real Talk: Not All Dogs Are Into Grooming

I’d be lying if I said every pup walks into the salon wagging their tail. Grooming can be scary – especially for rescue dogs or those with bad past experiences.

We’ve worked with anxious dogs using slow-introduction techniques, grooming in stages, and even playing classical music in the background (seriously it works). It’s not one-size-fits-all, and I always encourage owners to find a groomer who takes the time to build trust.

The Online Buzz: TikTok Grooming Trends

Let’s talk about something I find equal parts hilarious and horrifying: TikTok DIY dog grooming videos. From “summer transformation hacks” to the infamous “vacuum clipper challenge,” some of these clips are… creative, to put it mildly.

I get the appeal of saving time and money, but grooming isn’t just cosmetic – it’s healthcare. I’ve had to fix a lot of botched home jobs, including one poor Schnauzer who came in looking like a failed topiary. It’s funny now. It wasn’t then.

Final Thoughts: What Still Feels Unclear?

While we know a lot about dog grooming, some things are still evolving. For example, how climate change is affecting seasonal shedding cycles—or how breed-specific grooming needs may shift as hybrid dogs (like doodles) continue to rise in popularity.

And I’ll be honest no matter how many grooming appointments I handle, every dog teaches me something new. Sometimes it’s patience. Sometimes it’s how not to hold a peanut butter treat during a nail trim.

Looking Ahead

If there’s one takeaway from all this, it’s that summer grooming isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a blend of comfort, hygiene, and canine well-being. The myths are slowly being replaced with better-informed choices, thanks in part to online education, vet input, and yes, even the occasional viral TikTok (used responsibly).

As trends change and new products hit the market, I’ll keep testing, trimming, and learning. Because at the end of the (sunny) day, a happy, healthy dog is what it’s all about.