Summertime is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the weather. For dog owners, it can also be a great time to brush up on their grooming knowledge. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the things that change dog grooming needs during the summer months. We will also cover some of the hazards that dogs face during summertime, and provide tips on how to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable in the heat!
What changes in summer for dogs?
Summer is not known only for the heat and ubiquitous sunshine, there is more to that, that heavily influences the life of your pet. The days are longer, and there is more daylight which means that your dog will probably be spending more time outside. A lot of bugs and infections thrive in warm and damp weather too. All of these changes mean that you need to take a few extra steps to help your dog go through summer 2022.
Top dog grooming changes in summer
Here is the list of the dog grooming changes happening in summer & potential threats, that your pup can encounter:
Increased shedding
As the weather gets warmer, you may notice that your dog’s coat starts to shed more. This is perfectly normal! In fact, it is a sign that your dog’s coat is getting thinner in preparation for summer. To help with the shedding, be sure to brush your dog regularly – at least once a day. You may also want to consider using a de-shedding tool, which can help to remove loose hair from your dog’s coat.
Odor
With the warmer weather comes increased sweating – and that goes for your dog, too! You may notice that your dog’s fur starts to smell a bit more during summer. To help combat this, be sure to bathe your dog regularly. A good rule of thumb is to bathe them every two weeks, or as needed. Be sure to use best smelling dog shampoo, with deodorising effect & prolonged signature smell, that stays up to 7 days!
More oily skin
In addition to shedding, you may also notice that your dog’s skin gets oilier in the summer months. This is because the sebaceous glands produce more oil in response to the heat. To help keep your dog’s skin healthy, be sure to use a shampoo that is designed for oily skin. You may also want to consider using a conditioner to help keep your dog’s coat soft and shiny.
Hot spots
Hot spots are a common problem in dogs during the summer months. Hot spots are areas of inflamed skin that can be painful and itchy. They are often caused by allergies, insect bites, or excessive licking and scratching. If you notice a hot spot on your dog, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can help to soothe your dog’s skin by using a cool compress.
Insects
Another hazard that dogs face in the summertime is insects. Bugs like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can cause irritation and disease. To protect your dog from insects, be sure to use a monthly preventative treatment (such as Frontline or Advantage). You may also want to consider using a natural repellent, such as cedar oil or lemon juice.
Summertime is our favourite season, but it can be very dangerous for your dog! Be sure to take extra care of your furry friend during the hot summer months. Use these tips to help keep your dog safe, comfortable, and healthy all season long! Do you have any other tips for keeping dogs cool in the summer? Share them with us in the comments below!