Shaving a dog for the summer???

i know that double coated dogs don't need it but i have a hienz 57 dog is there anyway i can find out if its a double coated breed???? if not i may get its hair cut for the summer

Shaving a dog for the summer???

Without pics, I can' tell. You can take him to a groomer. It won't cost you anything just to show them your dog and ask them the question.

Double coated dogs have a dense, thick downy fur underneath their longer hair that is on top.

Shaving a dog for the summer???

It is usualy really bad for their skin and causes more problems than it solves

Shaving a dog for the summer???

Do you have a photo of your dog? A double-coated dog will have a harsher, longer outercoat and if you spread the hairs, you will see a lighter, fluffy, downy undercoat, which is usually a lighter color. If you're still in doubt, make an appointment with a groomer to discuss your dog and available options.

If you decide you want him shaved for the summer, stress to the groomer not to take his coat down too closely. A good groomer can leave a nice haircoat an inch long or so that will still provide the dog some protection from the sun, other weather, and biting insects while offering the advantages of keeping him cool. There is no reason to completely shave the dog unless his coat is in poor condition and badly matted, in which case a complete shave is a necessity.

Another option would be to have them shave an 'air conditioning strip.' This is a trim from the bottom of the breastbone or armpits continuing along the abdomen to the groin and down the insides of the thighs. A clip like this will help to keep the dog cool by shortening the hair over the major blood vessels while still maintaining the look of an unclipped dog since you won't see the trimmed spot easily, especially if the dog has a longer coat. Many people do this clip on hunting dogs and older double-coated dogs that may have a heavy spay/neuter coat and a tendency to mat, or on dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors where mud and weeds would mat on a wet undercoat. The dog still retains the look and protection of the body coat, while still gaining some of the benefits of a summer trim.

Shaving a dog for the summer???

Unless you plan on applying sunscreen religiously, I do not recommend shaving your dog. Your dogs coat protects them from the sun's harmful rays and prevents sunburn.

If your dog suffers from the heat it is better to keep him/her inside during the hottest part of the day allowing him/her to enjoy play time outside in the morning and in the evening when the sun is not as strong (not as warm, as well). If you need to let your dog out in the middle of the day (warmest) please provide your baby with PLENTY of water (bowls, sprinkler, kiddie pool, ice cubes) and shade outside only if you are home to carefully look for signs of heat exhaustion/shock which could lead to death.

Shaving a dog for the summer???

Take it to a groomer and have them make a suggestion of what's best grooming-wise - stripping down the coat or clipping. I had a border collie/ retriever mix that was black and we did clip her successfully - but not too short - they need some coat to protect them from the sun. She was much cooler and happier. She looked a little bit like a poodle with a puppy cut (not a show cut).

Shaving a dog for the summer???

A double coated breed has 2 diffferent types of hair in their coat , guard hairs which is on top tends to be shinier and stiffer and the undercoat is kind of wooly and soft usually thickest on the hips/flanks and often will clump or matt there if you don't brush out

Shaving a dog for the summer???

I dont think its a good idea to shave your dog. You will be applying sunscreen all the time... Put a kiddie pool in your backyard. Put ice in his water. Theres a few ideas for you.