Why Grooming Your Dog in the Summer is So Important

Unlike us, dogs can’t just strip down to shorts and a t-shirt when the temperature rises. They’re stuck wearing the same coat year-round, and it’s why grooming your dog is so important, especially in the summer months. While we may enjoy the freedom of airy clothes and open windows, our canine companions rely on their natural coats to regulate their temperature, and sometimes they need a little help from us.

Summer is shedding season for many dogs. You’ve probably noticed balls of hair blowing across the kitchen floor in the breeze or more shedding on your clothes. This is a clear sign that your dog is naturally trying to adjust to warmer temperatures as this shedding helps them stay cool.

But sometimes, those hairs need a little extra help to shed. It’s why brushing out the dead fur can help your dog feel more comfortable as it warms up outside, while also keeping the inside a little less hairy!

But grooming your dog in summer isn’t just about brushing. It also includes bathing after a fun romp through grass or a dip in cool water as well as attention to teeth, ears, and noses. We know it sounds like a lot, but don’t worry. This blog is here to give you all the advice on grooming your dog during the summer, including a complete list of what you’ll need!

Now don’t worry, dog shedding is a completely natural process, especially for those pups of ours that have thicker or double coats. In the wild, seasonal moulting helps animals stay comfortable as they lose an insulating undercoat when it’s warm and grow it back as temperatures drop.

For most dogs, shedding tends to peak twice a year: in late spring or early summer, when a lighter coat replaces the thick winter fur, and in autumn, when a denser coat grows in preparation for the colder months.

However, shedding doesn’t always stick strictly to these seasonal windows. Many domesticated dogs seem to shed year-round, just in smaller amounts. That’s because, unlike their wild ancestors, our dogs live in environments with central heating, artificial lighting and more warmth than is usually found outside. These indoor conditions can confuse their natural signals, encouraging them to shed even when it’s technically not moulting season.

Now for the science bit! Hair growth in dogs follows a four-phase cycle:

• Anagen (growth): the hair is actively growing

• Catagen (transition): a short phase when growth slows and the follicle prepares to rest

• Telogen (resting): the hair sits in the follicle without growing until it falls out

• Exogen (shedding): the old hair is released so a new one can grow in its place

Several factors can influence summer shedding too. Hormonal changes, like pregnancy or heat cycles, can affect coat loss, as can diet. It’s why nutrients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 are key for healthy skin and coat!

Stress, changes in routine, or moving home can also trigger extra shedding. And of course, breed matters: some dogs, like Labradors and Huskies, shed heavily, while others, such as Poodles, tend to hold onto their hair more.

Grooming your dog during the summer is more than just a way to keep their coat looking shiny. It’s an essential part of keeping them healthy, comfortable and happy. Unlike us, dogs can’t strip off layers or reach for a fan when the sun is blazing, so proper grooming helps them manage the heat, stay clean and avoid unnecessary discomfort.

Brushing is one of the most important summer grooming tasks. Regular brushing removes loose fur, reduces matting and allows their skin to breathe, which is particularly important as dogs tend to shed more in the warmer months. It also helps you spot ticks, fleas or other irritants early, which are more active in the summer.

Bathing is another crucial step when it comes to grooming your dog. Summer walks, trips to the park, or splashes in ponds and rivers mean your dog is more likely to pick up dirt, pollen, and allergens that can irritate their skin. A refreshing bath removes these irritants, cools them down, and keeps their coat healthy.

Grooming your dog isn’t just about fur either. Cleaning your dog’s ears is vital because swimming or humidity can increase the risk of ear infections. Similarly, dental care is essential since warm weather encourages more activity and snacking, which can contribute to plaque buildup. Healthy teeth and gums prevent bad breath, discomfort, and even more serious health issues down the line.

Now that we’ve covered why grooming your dog during the summer is so important, it’s time to get practical. To make sure your pup stays cool and clean all season long, having the right tools and a solid routine is key, so we’ve put together the ultimate dog grooming checklist with everything you need to keep your dog looking and feeling their best this summer.

Dog Brushes

A good dog brush is one of the most essential tools in your summer grooming kit. Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, dirt and debris, keeping your dog’s coat clean and reducing the risk of mats and tangles. But beyond aesthetics, brushing supports healthy skin by distributing natural oils, promoting circulation and keeping your pup comfortable in the warmer months.

Different coat types need different brushes. Long-haired or double-coated breeds benefit from brushes that can reach the undercoat to remove dead fur, while short-haired dogs do well with softer bristles that smooth the topcoat and remove surface dirt

Shampoo Brushes

Shampoo brushes for dogs are a game-changer for summer bath time. Unlike regular brushes which you’ll likely want to use just before bathtime, these tools are used during, helping to massage shampoo deep into your dog’s coat and down to the skin.

This ensures a thorough clean, allowing you to loosen dirt and stubborn undercoat fur better than before. They’re also amazing at stimulating blood flow and promoting a healthy, shiny coat.

Dog-Safe Shampoo & Conditioner 

Choosing the right dog shampoo and conditioner is a crucial part of grooming your dog, especially during the warmer months when their skin and coat can be more exposed to dirt, pollen and the sun.

Human shampoos are a definite no-go, as they can disrupt your dog’s natural skin balance and cause irritation or dryness. Instead, choose dog-safe formulas that are specifically designed to clean gently and maintain healthy skin pH.

On-the-Go Pet Wipes

We know that summer usually means more adventures, whether that’s long walks, beach days or maybe even trips abroad. So while regular baths keep your dog clean, sometimes you need a quick, convenient solution between washes. 

That’s where on-the-go pet wipes come in. They’re perfect for wiping down paws, cleaning ears, freshening up a smelly coat or removing dirt after a dip in the lake.

Dog Toothbrushes & Dental Wipes

When you think of grooming your dog, brushing and bathing usually come to mind, but dental care is just as important. Our dogs need clean teeth to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease and the bad breath that can sneak up on even the sweetest pups. That’s where dog toothbrushes and dog dental wipes come in, making it easy to keep your dog’s mouth healthy without stress.

Microfibre Dog Towels

After a good brush and bath, it’s also worth having some microfibre dog towels about to get them dry. The soft, highly absorbent fibres soak up water faster than traditional towels so it’s a lot easier for you when it’s time to tackle wet paws and muddy coats.

Dog Nail Grinders & Clippers

Keeping your pup’s nails at a healthy length is another essential part of grooming your dog. Overgrown nails can be uncomfortable, affect the way your dog walks, and even lead to joint strain or injury. Regular trimming also prevents nails from snagging on carpets or furniture, keeping both your pup and your home happy.

For an easy and stress-free trim, the DogsLife Dog Nail Grinder is a great grooming tool. This electric nail grinder allows you to shape and shorten nails safely, offering more control than traditional clippers. 

Before you start, make sure your dog is comfortable with the tool. We suggest turning it on nearby so they can get used to the sound and reward them with lots of treats and praise. Gradually introduce your dog to the grinder by letting them sniff and explore it, then start gently filing a nail at a time. Your vet can also help you trim your pup’s nails if you’d prefer a helping hand!

Paw & Nose Balms

Finally, we can’t forget about those adorable little toe beans and nose boops! Just like the rest of your dog, their paws and noses need care to stay clean and healthy too, especially during the summer months when hot pavements, sun and outdoor adventures can take their toll.

There you have it! Grooming your dog during the summer isn’t just about keeping them looking good, it’s about keeping them comfortable and happy throughout the warmer months.

With rising temperatures and more outdoor adventures, summer often exposes your dog to more dirt, pollen and other irritants that can affect their skin, coat, and overall wellbeing. It’s why regular brushing helps manage shedding and prevents matting while shampooing and bathing removes debris and keeps their skin clean. And of course, don’t forget their teeth, nails, paws, and noses, which all benefit from extra care during the summer season.

Here at WOOOF, we’ve got everything you need to make summer grooming your dog simple and stress-free. From dog brushes and shampoos to toothbrushes for dogs, paw and nose balms, and microfibre towels, we have all the essentials to keep your dog looking their best.

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