When summer hits, our furry friends feel the heat too. From intense shedding to dirty paws and overheated coats, dogs need extra grooming care to stay cool, clean, and comfortable. The good news? With the right tools and routine, grooming your dog in summer doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about summer dog grooming, including brushing tips, paw care, and essential tools that make a big difference in hot weather.
Summer brings fun, but also challenges for your dog's coat and paws. Proper grooming is essential for their comfort and health in the heat.
Why Summer Grooming Matters More
Warm weather may bring more playtime, but it also brings:
- Increased shedding
- More dirt, dust, and allergens
- Risk of overheating, matting, and paw irritation
Consistent grooming during the summer helps your dog:
- Stay cooler by removing loose fur
- Avoid matted coats that trap heat and moisture
- Reduce skin issues caused by trapped debris or moisture
- Look and feel their best all season long
Essential Summer Grooming Routine
To keep your pup healthy and happy in the heat, focus on these grooming basics:
1. Regular Brushing
Brushing your dog 3–4 times per week in summer:
- Removes dead hair and undercoat
- Prevents overheating by promoting airflow
- Reduces shedding indoors
Use tools like grooming gloves to gently massage and remove hair with minimal stress.
The Secret Weapon Against Summer Shedding: Your Grooming Glove Guide
2. Bathing Schedule
Bathe your dog every 2–4 weeks, depending on activity level and breed.
Tips:
- Use cool water and gentle shampoos to avoid skin drying
- Never over-bathe—too much washes away essential oils
- Always dry thoroughly to prevent hot spots
Bonus: Add a pup jet wash attachment to speed up bath time.
3. Nail Trimming & Paw Care
Your dog’s nails grow faster in summer with more walks.
Keep nails trimmed to:
- Prevent snags, discomfort, or paw misalignment
- Reduce risk of injury during hikes or play
Also check paw pads for:
- Burns from hot pavement
- Splinters, debris, or cracks
Tip: Apply paw balm or use protective booties on hot days.
4. Ear & Face Cleaning
Dogs are prone to ear infections and eye stains in summer.
Maintain hygiene by:
- Wiping ears weekly with pet-safe solution
- Gently cleaning around eyes and snout to remove tear stains and dirt
- Checking for redness, odor, or excess moisture
Always dry ears after bathing or swimming.
Read more: 5 Grooming Tools Every Dog Owner Needs in 2025
Regular brushing removes loose hair, prevents matting, and helps keep your dog's coat healthy and breathable, essential for staying cool.
Top Grooming Tools for Summer
Having the right tools makes grooming easier, faster, and more effective.
Must-Have Tools:
- Grooming gloves – for deshedding and massage
- Pet hair remover rollers – for furniture and clothing cleanup
- Fine-tooth combs – to tackle mats and remove debris
- Cooling wipes or towels – for post-walk cleanups
- Pup jet wash hose – for easy, quick rinsing after muddy play
Compare glove vs brush effectiveness
What's the Best Way to Remove Shedding Fur: Grooming Gloves or a Brush?
Safe At-Home Grooming Tips
Follow these quick tips to keep grooming stress-free and safe:
- Groom in cool shaded areas—never under direct sunlight
- Brush before and after walks to manage fur and debris
- Avoid shaving double-coated breeds—this can damage coat health
- Watch for skin redness, hot spots, or signs of discomfort
- Reward with treats to build a positive association with grooming
Learn more
Easy At-Home Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog Fresh This Summer
Shop the GauGauPet Grooming Essentials Collection
At GauGauPet, we’ve curated a collection of grooming tools made for pet parents who care—and pets who love comfort.
Our summer grooming essentials include:
- Breathable grooming gloves with deshedding technology
- Reusable pet hair remover rollers
- Portable PupJet dog wash hose attachments
- Cooling beds and paw care accessories
With these essential grooming steps, your dog will be ready to comfortably enjoy all the joys of summer, looking and feeling their best!
Final Thoughts: Summer Grooming Keeps Your Dog Healthy & Happy
Don’t let summer heat take a toll on your furry friend. With a consistent grooming routine and the right tools, you can:
- Keep their coat healthy and breathable
- Prevent overheating, infections, and discomfort
- Strengthen your bond through gentle, at-home care
Because a clean dog is a happy dog—and nothing feels better than soft, fresh fur on a summer day.
FAQs
1.How often should I groom my dog in summer?
Brush your dog 3–4 times per week and bathe every 2–4 weeks, depending on activity and coat type.
2. What tools help reduce summer shedding?
Grooming gloves, undercoat combs, and pet-safe wipes are effective for removing loose hair.
3. Can I shave my dog to keep them cool?
No. Double-coated breeds should not be shaved. Instead, maintain airflow through regular brushing.
4. How do I protect my dog’s paws from hot pavement?
Walk during cooler hours, use paw wax or booties, and check for burns or cracks.
5. What are signs of overheating during grooming?
Panting, red gums, excessive drooling, or collapse. Always groom in a cool environment and keep water nearby.