Summer Heat Grooming in Arizona: What You Need to Know

When it's 115°F in the Valley, it's natural to think shaving your dog will keep them cool. For some breeds, that's true. For others, it's actually harmful. Here's what you need to know.

The double coat problem

Breeds with double coats — Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Corgis, Border Collies — have a two-layer coat that works as natural insulation. In summer, the undercoat traps cool air against the skin. Shaving it removes that insulation and exposes the skin directly to the sun.

Shaved double coats also risk "clipper alopecia" — a condition where the coat grows back damaged, patchy, or not at all. We don't shave double coats at Desert Paws.

What actually helps double-coated breeds in summer

• Regular de-shedding treatments to remove the dead undercoat
• Bathing to clean and loosen the coat
• Thorough blow-drying to separate coat layers and improve airflow
• Keeping the coat mat-free so air can circulate

Breeds that benefit from summer cuts

Single-coated breeds — Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, Maltese, Schnauzers — can be safely trimmed shorter for summer. We call it our Summer Heat Groom: a shorter, breed-appropriate cut that reduces heat retention without damaging the coat.

Paw pad protection

Asphalt in Scottsdale can reach 160°F in summer. If it's too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for your dog's paws. We trim the fur between paw pads as part of most grooms, which helps — but early morning and evening walks are essential. Ask us about our paw pad balm add-on if your dog has cracked pads.

Hydration and signs of overheating

Beyond grooming, make sure your dog has constant access to fresh water and shade. Signs of heat stress: excessive panting, drooling, weakness, disorientation. If you see these, move your dog to a cool area and call your vet.

Schedule a summer groom

We book out 1–2 weeks in advance. If you want a summer groom before the real heat hits in June, reach out now.