Should I Shave My Dog This Summer?

We wouldn’t want to wear a giant fur coat in the summer, so should your dog? As always, there’s no black and white answer. It’s entirely dependent on the type of coat your dog carries.

Non-Shedding Coats

There are several breeds that do not shed. Dogs like Poodles, Soft Coated Wheaton Terriers or Shih Tzus do not shed their coats naturally. That means they need periodic haircuts to keep their coat neat and tangle free. What’s important to remember is that you’re not truly “shaving” the dog, like you would your legs. You’re just clipping parts of the coat very close to the skin. Leaving a thin layer will help to protect your dog from elements like sunburn and skin cancer.

Single-Coated Breeds

Single-coated dogs, like Dalmatians or Vizslas shed quite frequently. Their coats are short, but dense, and they provide insulation and protection to the dog. Nothing short of a drastic medical requirement should convince you to shave a single-coated dog.

Double-Coated Breeds

Double-Coated breeds are dogs that require thick coats to combat the elements. They are…