Our New Address2846 SW Port Saint Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953

(772) 207-7858

By appointment only, we do not accept Walk-ins.

How To Keep Double-Coated Dogs Cool in Port St. Lucie’s Hot Summers

Dog sitting still while a groomer carefully cuts its hair.
It’s no secret that Port St. Lucie summers are HOT! For many dogs, keeping cool in the intense summer heat is as simple as staying out of the direct sun, but what about those who have thick double coats? Although they are at an obvious disadvantage when compared to short or single-coated dogs, there are plenty of ways you can help your thick-coated companion stay cool as can be.

How Do Double Coats Function

Before we get into fighting off the heat, it’s important to understand how double coats work. Popular dog breeds in Port St. Lucie such as the Husky, German Shepherd, Pomeranian or Golden Retriever all have two layers to their coats- a soft, insulating undercoat and protective topcoat. The topcoat’s main function is to protect both the skin and the undercoat from abrasions, water, and UV rays. In contrast, the soft, dense undercoat is meant to trap air, keeping it insulated from any extreme temperatures.

Does Shaving Double-Coated Dogs Keep Them Cool?

It’s a common misconception that the best way to keep thick coated dogs cool in the summer is by clipping their fur short. In reality, any time you clip these dogs’ coats, you’re taking away their natural heat defense. Without their protective topcoat, the sun’s rays are no longer reflected away from the dog but instead absorbed by any remaining coat and the skin. Not only that, but there also won’t be a cool layer of air trapped next to the skin.

Most of the time double-coated dog breeds that have been clipped grow back with no issues; however, there is always a risk that the coat will be damaged by shaving – sometimes not growing back in at all. Of course, it’s up to each pet owner’s personal judgment if this is a risk worth taking to them, but there are several ways that we can help our thick-coated canines stay cool without resorting to clipping them short.

Coat Maintenance Is Your Best Tool

One of the main reasons that many double-coated dogs overheat in high temperatures is because their coats are not in good condition, and therefore can’t function properly. These breeds shed, often quite heavily, and require lots of brushing to make sure all the dead undercoat is properly removed. If it’s left to build up, air is no longer able to be trapped, leaving the coat vulnerable to the heat. The absolute best way to ensure that your double-coated dog stays nice and cool in the summer is to have them groomed monthly by your favorite Port St. Lucie dog groomer. A clean, healthy undercoat that’s free from dead hair and well-brushed out is a dog’s best defense against the elements. Their topcoat also functions best after being groomed and does a better job of deflecting the sun’s hot rays when it’s clean and shiny.

Other Ways to Keep Dogs Cool in the Summer

During the most intense days of summer, all dogs tend to struggle-regardless of their coat type. There are a few things you can do to help any dog beat the heat and stay as cool as possible. Sticking to the shade and having plenty of fresh water available during any outdoor time are the most obvious solutions. Any exercise on especially hot days should be done in the morning or evening, to avoid the hottest part of the day. And speaking of exercise- keeping your pet at a healthy weight can make a surprisingly big difference in how well they tolerate the heat. Extra fat stored in the body traps heat and can make it harder for dogs to cool down on their own.
Your dog’s thick coat may look like it would be a disadvantage in Florida’s hot weather, but it’s actually their best tool for keeping cool. Knowing that these dogs have their undercoat to keep close air on their skin, and a protective topcoat to reflect the sun’s heat should help ease owners’ minds. Between this natural defense and proper dog grooming practices, along with staying on top of the heat with plenty of shade and hydration, owners of thick-coated dog breeds can rest assured that their fluffy friends can tough out harsh heat with the best of them. Shampoochi Day Spa is equipped with all the best dog grooming techniques to keep your super furry family members as cool as cucumbers this summer.
Alt Text Two dogs standing side by side, waiting for their haircuts at the grooming salon.