As temperatures rise, your dog’s coat needs extra attention. From shedding to matting, the summer season puts a lot of stress on your pet’s skin and fur. But not all dogs have the same grooming needs. The right summer grooming schedule depends on your dog’s coat type, breed, and lifestyle.
This guide will help you create a grooming routine tailored to your dog’s needs—so they stay cool, clean, and comfortable all season long.
Summer grooming isn't one-size-fits-all. Every dog breed has unique coat needs to stay cool and healthy when the temperatures rise.
Why Summer Coat Maintenance Is Critical
Grooming during summer is not just about looks. It directly affects your dog’s health and comfort. Without proper coat care, dogs can:
- Overheat more easily
- Develop mats and tangles
- Suffer from skin irritation
- Track excess fur and dirt around the house
Consistent grooming keeps your dog’s coat breathable, their skin healthy, and your home cleaner too.
Understanding Your Dog’s Coat Type
Each breed has a different coat texture, length, and thickness. Let’s break down summer grooming schedules by coat type.
Short-Haired Breeds
Examples: Beagle, Boxer, Pit Bull
- Brush 2 to 3 times per week to remove loose hair and dirt
- Bathe every 3 to 4 weeks using a gentle shampoo
- Use grooming gloves to massage, clean, and deshed
These dogs are low maintenance, but still need consistent care to control shedding and keep coats glossy.
Medium Double-Coated Breeds
Examples: Golden Retriever, Husky, Australian Shepherd
- Brush daily with a deshedding tool
- Bathe every 2 to 3 weeks to wash out dander and dirt
- Never shave their coat; it protects against sun and heat
Use a slicker brush or undercoat rake along with grooming gloves for best results.
Long-Haired Breeds
Examples: Collie, Shih Tzu, Afghan Hound
- Daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles
- Bathe every 1 to 2 weeks depending on outdoor activity
- Use a detangler spray and comb to work through knots
These breeds need more time and tools, but they will thank you with a soft, healthy coat.
Curly or Wavy-Coated Breeds
Examples: Poodle, Goldendoodle, Bichon Frise
- Brush every other day to prevent matting
- Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks
- Bathe every 1 to 2 weeks
Their coats trap dirt easily, so keeping a schedule is crucial. Grooming gloves are helpful for in-between maintenance and bonding.
Hairless or Thin-Coated Breeds
Examples: Chinese Crested, Greyhound
- Weekly wipe-down with pet-safe wipes
- Bath every 2 to 3 weeks
- Apply dog-safe sunscreen when outside
- Moisturize exposed skin to avoid dryness
These breeds require skin care more than fur care.
Read more: The Secret Weapon Against Summer Shedding: Your Grooming Glove Guide
Must-Have Grooming Tools by Coat Type
Make grooming easier with the right tools:
- Grooming gloves – great for all coat types, especially short and medium
- Slicker brush or undercoat rake – for double and long-haired breeds
- Steel comb and detangler spray – essential for long or curly coats
- Pet-safe wipes and shampoo – good for sensitive skin
- Fur remover roller – keeps furniture and clothes fur-free
Shop GauGauPet Grooming Essentials Now
Double-coated and long-haired breeds require more frequent deshedding to remove dead undercoat, which acts as insulation and can cause overheating.
Signs You’re Not Grooming Enough
Not sure if your routine is working? Watch for these signs:
- Fur clumps or mats
- Skin redness or bad odor
- More scratching, paw licking, or hot spots
- Shedding more than usual indoors
- Visible discomfort during walks or hot days
Consistent grooming prevents these problems before they start.
Final Thoughts: Customize and Stay Consistent
No two dogs are the same—and that means no two grooming schedules are either. Your pet’s ideal routine depends on their coat type, activity level, and lifestyle.
Set reminders to brush or bathe based on the needs we listed above, and adapt as needed. Dogs that swim often or spend time outdoors may need more frequent care.
And remember—grooming is not just about maintenance. It is also a way to bond, observe health changes early, and ensure your dog enjoys summer in total comfort.
Browse Our Full Summer Grooming Collection
Regular baths with a dog-specific shampoo can remove allergens and dirt, while proper drying prevents skin issues common in humid summer weather.
FAQs
1. How often should I brush my dog in summer
Short-haired dogs need brushing 2 to 3 times per week. Long-haired or double-coated breeds may need daily brushing to prevent mats and reduce shedding.
2. Do long-haired dogs need grooming more in summer
Yes. Long coats trap heat and dirt, so regular brushing and bathing helps prevent discomfort and skin issues.
3. What grooming tools are best for short coats
Grooming gloves and soft bristle brushes work well for short-haired breeds.
4. Should I shave my dog in the heat
No. Shaving a double-coated breed can damage their coat and increase sunburn risk. Instead, focus on brushing and undercoat removal.
5. What happens if I do not groom my dog regularly
Neglecting grooming can lead to mats, skin infections, hot spots, and excess shedding—especially during summer.