Summer dog grooming tips every pet owner needs (UK)

Introduction

Table of contents

You’ve never looked forward to summer walks more. The sun is out, the air feels warm, but you might notice your dog panting heavily, slowing down, or shaking off more than usual. You wonder: when should you book that grooming appointment?

Summer dog grooming is more than a grooming session. It’s a way to keep your dog cool, healthy and comfortable through the hottest days. Your dog’s coat, whether long, wiry, double or smooth, plays a big role in temperature control. If it’s matted or dirty, it can trap heat and make the skin sore.

You might worry you’re not sure how often to visit a groomer. Or you wonder how to tackle that thick coat at home without hurting your dog. I’ve been there—hair everywhere, mud tracked in, tangles that refuse to budge. That’s why I’ve put together practical, evidence‑based guidance you can trust.

I’ll walk you through smart, simple ways to care for your dog’s coat this summer:

  1. Know how coat type changes care needs
  2. Tackle matting before it becomes a real problem
  3. Use the right tools for the job
  4. When to book a professional groomer
  5. DIY grooming that keeps your home clean and your dog happy

Throughout, I’ll lean on research from trusted UK sources like the RSPCA and kennel clubs. And I’ll invite you to try small changes that build up into lasting, low‑stress summer care.

1. Understand why grooming matters in the summer

If your dog seems hotter than usual, it’s not just the sun. Thick coats can trap warmth and moisture, inviting skin irritation. Tangled fur holds debris from field walks. That mud, leaves or twigs cling and irritate after even a short stroll.

One dog owner I know, Emma, trims her long‑haired collie more often in summer. She found brushing every other day, plus a light trim around the paws, cut down her dog’s panting—not because the heat changed, but because the coat was lighter.

Have you noticed your dog shaking off more often after walks? That’s a cue to check for hidden tangles or damp undercoat.

2. Match grooming to coat type

Smooth-coated dogs

They’re usually low maintenance. A brush a few times a week works fine. These coats stay cleaner and don’t trap as much heat or dirt—unless your dog enjoys marshy puddles.

If you see shed fur around your home, a bristled brush helps cut that down. A bath every 10–12 weeks is plenty, unless your dog gets muddy. Use a mild dog shampoo and towel dry gently.

Medium or double-coated dogs

Breeds like German shepherds or huskies have two layers. This helps them cool in summer, provided both layers remain healthy.

Use a slicker brush plus a moulting comb. Brush gently in sections, clear the undercoat before trimming or bathing. If tangles form, a conditioning spray can help.

Plan to groom every 4–8 weeks. After baths, brush again. You may want to book a professional groomer every second session to ease the workload and reduce house hair.

summer grooming tips - collie

Wire-haired breeds

You’re dealing with wiry texture that matting loves to hide in. Hand‑stripping is effective. It removes dead hair and encourages new growth.

Use your fingers or a proper stripping comb. Take care to follow the grain of the coat. You can tackle it a bit at a time—day by day—to avoid over‑handling your dog. That works especially well if your pup is excitable.

It’s safer and easier to rely on a trusted dog walker or groomer who knows this style. A badly stripped wire can pull or cut the skin.

Long-haired dogs

These require the most attention when the temperature climbs. Your goal is gentle maintenance, not shaving. Double coats especially need to keep that insulating layer.

Dry brushing before bath time removes dead hair and prevents mats. A ball pin slicker, followed by a bristle brush, works wonders.

Bathe your dog weekly if they love getting dirty. Use a gentle, dog‑safe shampoo—blow-dry on low heat, working coat sections along the spine. Trim hair under the paws and around sensitive areas. Comb face and ears carefully.

If you remove too much coat, your dog may overheat. The coat helps regulate temperature.

3. Tidy the house, help your dog feel calm

Grooming isn’t just about your dog. It’s about you, too. Keeping fur under control saves cleaning time. Here are a few tips:

  • Use wipes or a damp towel after muddy walks
  • Set a regular grooming spot—ideally, a walk‑in shower or easy‑to‑clean mat
  • When trimming nails or wet‑bathing, protect paws and ears gently
  • Give your dog breaks with treats or games during longer grooming sessions

4. When to seek professional help

Professional groomers do a lot more than make your dog look neat. They check ear health, nail condition and skin for hidden issues.

Book your dog in when:

  • You’re facing stubborn mats or tangles
  • Your routine brushing shows buildup
  • You feel overwhelmed right now
  • You’ve not groomed a wire‑haired breed before

Ask for a groomer accredited by the RSPCA or The Kennel Club. They follow higher welfare standards, which keep your dog safer and your mind at ease (science.rspca.org.uk, science.rspca.org.uk).

5. Real-life check-in: Spot the signs

Does your dog:

  • Pant more than usual on short walks?
  • Shake or scratch at the same spot often?
  • Have more mats in wet areas (like legs or tummy)?
  • Drop hair around corners or furniture?

If yes, it’s time for action. Try:

  • Brushing twice weekly with the right tool
  • Bathing 4‑8 weekly (depending on coat and dirt level)
  • Scheduling salon visits when home grooming won’t cut it

A lighter, cleaner coat helps your dog move freely, stay cool, and relax at home.

Final thoughts

You’ve learned what matters for summer dog grooming: coat type, regular brushing, smart DIY, and knowing when to trust a professional. You’re helping your pet stay cool, fresh and content—and that matters to their wellbeing and your peace of mind.

Curious about helping older pets feel more comfortable? Or would you like a quick guide to ear‑cleaning, nail trims, or small animal grooming next? I’d love to share more tips or walk you through our services. Your pet deserves care that’s useful, safe and simply easier.

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