What the Floof: Shaving Your Dog for Summer—Smart or Dangerous?
Summer’s here, and we get it—you’re sweating, your dog’s panting, and you’re eyeing those fluffy thighs thinking: Should I just shave them down to a buzzcut?
Hold the clippers. Before you take grooming into your own hands, let’s break down the truth about shaving your dog in summer.
Spoiler: for many breeds, shaving can actually make things worse.
Myth: Less Fur = Cooler Dog
Truth: A dog’s coat is smarter than it looks.
Double-coated breeds (think Huskies, Goldens, and Labs) have a built-in cooling system. That thick outer layer you’re tempted to shave? It actually protects them from UV rays, helps regulate body temperature, and prevents overheating. Removing it can do more harm than good—including patchy regrowth, sunburn, and a messed-up insulation system.
But Not All Dogs Are the Same
Some pups do benefit from a trim—or even a full-body clip—during the hotter months. It all depends on their coat type.
Here's your cheat sheet:
Summer Shaving Guide for Popular Breeds
|
Breed |
Coat Type |
Shave Guidance |
Why |
|
Golden Retriever |
Double Coat |
❌ Do Not Shave |
Shaving disrupts insulation & regrowth may be patchy |
|
Poodle |
Single Coat |
✅ Can Be Clipped |
Grows continuously—benefits from trimming |
|
Shih Tzu |
Single Coat |
✅ Can Be Clipped |
Hair-like coat, clipping keeps them cool |
|
Husky |
Double Coat |
❌ Do Not Shave |
Double coat regulates temperature naturally |
|
Labrador Retriever |
Double Coat |
❌ Do Not Shave |
Double coat helps cool air circulate |
|
Yorkshire Terrier |
Single Coat |
✅ Can Be Clipped |
Silky hair benefits from trimming in heat |
|
Samoyed |
Double Coat |
❌ Do Not Shave |
Thick undercoat protects skin from sunburn |
|
Maltese |
Single Coat |
✅ Can Be Clipped |
Light coat that can be trimmed safely |
|
German Shepherd |
Double Coat |
❌ Do Not Shave |
Shaving damages protective outer coat |
|
Doodle Mixes |
Varies (Often Double) |
⚠️ Depends on Coat |
Consult a groomer—coat types can vary widely |
If your dog has a double coat, the general rule is: brush, don’t buzz.
If your dog has hair that grows continuously (like Poodles or Shih Tzus), a summer cut might be just what they need.
So What Should You Do Instead?
If shaving is a no-go, here’s how to help your dog stay cool, clean, and comfy all summer long:
1. Brush That Floof—Frequently
-
Use the Brodie Brush to tackle thick undercoats and reduce heat-trapping mats.
-
For toy breeds or tidying smaller areas, try the Brodie Mini Brush.
2. Use a De-shedding Comb
-
The Everydog Comb is perfect for loosening that hidden undercoat layer. Works on just about any floof.
3. Freshen Up Without Over-Bathing
-
A spritz of Floof Juice detangles, deodorizes, and keeps your dog’s coat looking shiny without drying out their skin.
Final Word: Shave with Care (Or Not at All)
Shaving might seem like a summer shortcut—but for most dogs, it’s just not worth it.
When in doubt, brush it out. Keep up with regular grooming, keep walks shady and cool, and let their natural floof do its job.
Because summer isn’t about being bald.
It’s about being breezy.