Summer Grooming to Keep Your Pets Cool

Summer’s great for backyard BBQs, lazy porch evenings, and long walks with your pets. But when the temperature rises, your pets feel it too. Grooming in the summer isn’t just about keeping your pets looking neat. It helps them stay healthy, comfortable, and cool.

Why Summer Grooming Matters

1. Keeps body temperature in check – Dogs and cats don’t sweat like we do. Instead, they rely on panting and limited sweat glands in their paws to cool off. A well-maintained coat helps air move more freely around their body (which is especially important for double-coated dogs and long-haired cats).
2. Prevents skin problems – Hot, humid weather can lead to skin issues like rashes, irritation, or infections, especially if your pet’s coat is matted or tangled. Mats trap moisture and block airflow. Keeping fur clean and trimmed reduces that risk.
3. Helps flea and tick prevention work better – Flea and tick prevention products work best when they reach your pet’s skin. A thick, dirty coat will get in the way. Brushing and bathing your pets regularly clears the path for these treatments to do their job.

Grooming Tips to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer

Here’s how to help your pup stay cool, comfortable, and safe through the hottest months.

Choose the Right Summer Cut

A good trim will make a big difference, but not every dog needs a close shave.

• When a summer cut helps: Breeds with long, fine coats like Shih Tzus or Poodles will benefit from a light trim. It helps them stay cool without stripping away too much protection.
• When to skip the shave: Double-coated dogs like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and Aussies shouldn’t be shaved. Their coats are designed to trap cool air and protect against sunburn. Shaving will mess with that natural cooling system.
• At-home trims vs. pros: If you’re just tidying up around the paws or trimming flyaways, at-home grooming will work. But for full cuts, it’s safest to go with a pro groomer, especially if your dog’s coat is thick or easily matted.

Bathing and Brushing

Your dog’s coat is like built-in climate control, but only if it’s in good shape.

• Brush regularly – Brushing clears out dead fur and helps air move through the coat. It also keeps tangles from turning into painful mats. Brushing a few times a week is usually enough, but do it daily if your dog’s a heavy shedder.
• Bathe when needed – In summer, most dogs only need a bath every 3–4 weeks (unless they’ve rolled in something questionable). Use a gentle, pet-safe shampoo that won’t dry out their skin.
• Use the right tools – For dogs that shed a lot, a de-shedding tool like a slicker brush or undercoat rake is a game-changer.

For more information, check out Grooming Tips for Dog Shedding and The Easiest Way to Wash Your Pup.

Paw and Nail Care

Your dog’s paws take the heat – literally.

• Hot pavement hurts – Sidewalks and asphalt will burn paw pads fast. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for theirs. Walk early or late, and stick to grass or dirt trails when you can.
• Nail maintenance matters – Long nails snag, crack, or change how your dog walks. Keep them trimmed regularly, about every 3–4 weeks.
• Protect with paw balm – Dry heat can make paw pads rough or cracked. A good paw balm keeps them moisturized and helps prevent damage from hot surfaces.

Grooming Tools to Keep On Hand

1. Slicker brush or de-shedding tool
2. Pet-safe shampoo
3. Nail clippers or a grinder
4. Flea comb
5. Paw balm
6. Grooming wipes (for quick clean-ups)

Summer Grooming Tips for Your Cat

Cats are good at keeping themselves clean, but summer brings extra shedding and a higher chance of mats, especially for long-haired breeds. A little grooming help from you goes a long way.

Brush Often

Long-haired breeds like Persians, Ragdolls, and Maine Coons need extra brushing during summer. Their thick coats will trap heat and tangle quickly.

• Brush 3–4 times a week (or more) to prevent mats and help with airflow.
• Use a slicker brush or wide-toothed comb that gently detangles without pulling.
• For short-haired cats, a weekly brushing is usually enough to manage shedding.

Brushing also cuts down on hairballs and gives you a chance to check for fleas, ticks, or burrs (especially if your cat roams outdoors).

To Trim or Not to Trim?

Most cats don’t need a summer haircut, but there are exceptions.

• When trimming helps: If your cat has dense mats that can’t be brushed out, a trim from a groomer might be the safest option.
• Skip the full shave: Shaving a cat’s coat will cause stress and remove their natural sun protection. Unless your vet recommends it, it’s better to stick with brushing and spot trims.

If unsure, ask your vet or a professional groomer before cutting any fur.

Keep Outdoor Cats Clean and Comfortable

Outdoor cats shed more in summer and are likelier to come home with debris or tangled fur.

• Check their coat regularly for ticks, leaves, burrs, and tangles.
• Wipe down with a damp cloth if they’re dusty or muddy.
• Keep a shady spot and fresh water available outside to help them cool off.

Grooming Tools to Keep On Hand

1. Wide-toothed comb or slicker brush
2. Pet-safe shampoo (if needed)
3. Flea comb
4. Nail clippers
5. Detangling spray (great for long coats)
6. Grooming wipes

Flea and Tick Prevention Is Grooming Too

Grooming isn’t just about fur. It’s also your first line of defense against pests. Summer is peak season for fleas and ticks, and staying on top of grooming helps you catch problems early. Every time you brush or bathe your pet, check for signs of pests.

• Fleas leave behind black “flea dirt” (which looks like pepper flakes).
• Ticks tend to hide around ears, under collars, and between toes.
• Red or irritated patches might mean bites or an allergic reaction.

The earlier you find a pest, the easier it is to treat and the less likely it is to spread.

Use the Right Preventatives for Your Pet

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but here are the most common options:

• Spot treatments – Easy to apply between the shoulders once a month.
• Flea collars – Long-lasting and great for pets who swim or bathe often.
• Oral meds – Chewable pills that protect from the inside out.

Read Protecting Your Dog From Fleas & Ticks During Summer and Year-Round Flea Prevention for a deeper dive.

Extra Cooling Ideas Beyond Grooming

Grooming helps a lot, but your pets may need extra help staying cool when the heat kicks in. Here are a few simple ways to beat the summer heat and keep your pets comfortable.

Set Up Cool Spots Around the House and Yard

1. Set up cooling mats – These pressure-activated mats absorb heat and don’t require electricity. Great for crates, porches, or shady corners.
2. Use fans for airflow – A small fan near your pet’s bed (but not directly on them) can help move warm air out of the way.
3. Create shade – Whether it’s a tree, patio umbrella, or DIY sun sail, giving your pet a shady hangout spot can make a huge difference.

Keep Pets Hydrated

1. Keep water bowls full and place extras around your home or yard.
2. Add ice cubes to their water dish or offer pet-safe electrolyte mixes for dogs on the go.
3. Bring water with you and offer it often if you’re going on a walk.

Choose Safe Times and Activities

1. Walk early in the morning or after sunset when it’s cooler.
2. Avoid blacktop or pavement – hot surfaces will burn paw pads fast.
3. Limit rough play during the hottest parts of the day, especially for flat-faced breeds or older pets.

Explore 33 Safe and Fun Summer Activities and Keeping Pets Cool During the Dog Days of Summer for more ideas.

Use Cool Treats and Gear

1. Offer frozen treats like ice cube trays with frozen broth, watermelon chunks, or a smear of peanut butter for a fun way to cool down.
2. Try pet-safe cooling vests to help regulate your dog’s body temperature on walks or hikes. Soak them in cool water and wring them out before putting them on.

One Last Brush Before You Go

Brushing, bathing, checking paws, and staying ahead of fleas and ticks all work together to keep your pet cool, clean, and happy when the heat rolls in. And when it’s time to restock your supplies, stop by your local Wilco Farm Store or shop online for everything you need. We’ve got the gear to keep tails wagging all summer long.