Summer Dog Grooming and Care Advice by Wow Grooming
Hot Pavements and Paw Protection 
One of the biggest summer dangers for dogs is walking on hot pavements. Tarmac and concrete absorb heat quickly and can burn your dog’s paw pads before you realise. A simple test is to place the back of your hand on the pavement — if you can’t comfortably hold it there for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog. Aim to walk during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and where possible, stick to grassy paths or shaded routes. Burnt paws are painful and can take time to heal, so it’s best to avoid the risk altogether.
Summer Means Ticks Are Out in Force
Warm weather brings ticks, which thrive in grassy areas, woodlands, and even your local park. They can latch onto your dog during walks and carry harmful diseases such as Lyme disease. After every outdoor adventure, check your dog’s armpits, ears, neck, belly, and paws.
Using a regular flea and tick preventative is essential in summer months. You can also use a fine-toothed comb to check the coat and remove debris after walks.
Beach Days and Salty Coats
There’s nothing like a trip to the beach with your dog, but don’t forget the aftercare! Saltwater can dry out your dog’s skin and irritate their coat, especially in breeds with sensitive skin. Always rinse your dog thoroughly with fresh water after swimming in the sea and towel dry them well to avoid matting or discomfort and where possible using a gentle shampoo ie: https://www.wowgrooming.co.uk/products/wow-grooming-deep-cleansing-aloe-vera-dog-shamoo-5L
One of the biggest summer dangers for dogs is walking on hot pavements. Tarmac and concrete absorb heat quickly and can burn your dog’s paw pads before you realise. A simple test is to place the back of your hand on the pavement — if you can’t comfortably hold it there for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog. Aim to walk during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and where possible, stick to grassy paths or shaded routes. Burnt paws are painful and can take time to heal, so it’s best to avoid the risk altogether.
Summer Means Ticks Are Out in Force
Warm weather brings ticks, which thrive in grassy areas, woodlands, and even your local park. They can latch onto your dog during walks and carry harmful diseases such as Lyme disease. After every outdoor adventure, check your dog’s armpits, ears, neck, belly, and paws.
Using a regular flea and tick preventative is essential in summer months. You can also use a fine-toothed comb to check the coat and remove debris after walks.
Beach Days and Salty Coats
There’s nothing like a trip to the beach with your dog, but don’t forget the aftercare! Saltwater can dry out your dog’s skin and irritate their coat, especially in breeds with sensitive skin. Always rinse your dog thoroughly with fresh water after swimming in the sea and towel dry them well to avoid matting or discomfort and where possible using a gentle shampoo ie: https://www.wowgrooming.co.
Hot sand can also burn paw pads, so walk your dog during cooler parts of the day and check the sand’s temperature with your hand first.
Hydration and Shade Are a Must
Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If you’re out and about, bring a travel bowl and water with you. Dogs can’t sweat like humans do, so they rely on panting to cool down. Dehydration and heatstroke can set in quickly in high temperatures.
Keep walks short and in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler, and never leave your dog in a car, even for a few minutes – temperatures can soar in seconds.
Watch Out for Grass Snakes in the UK
Grass snakes are native to the UK and most commonly found in warm, damp environments like compost heaps, long grass, and near ponds. They’re harmless to humans and dogs, but a curious sniff or paw from your pet can give both a fright! While grass snakes are non-venomous and tend to flee quickly, it’s still a good idea to keep your dog on a lead when walking in tall grass or unfamiliar areas. If your dog does interact with a snake and shows any signs of distress afterwards – such as drooling, limping, or excessive licking – contact your vet just to be safe.
Washing Your Dog After Outdoor Adventures
After woodland walks or days in the garden, give your dog a wipe down to remove pollen, grass seeds, and dirt that may irritate the skin or coat. Washing your dog with a gentle, dog-safe shampoo every couple of weeks will help keep the coat in good condition – but over-washing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so don't overdo it.
Final Woof of Wisdom
Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy the great outdoors with your dog, but a little extra care goes a long way. Avoid shaving unless medically necessary, stay tick-aware, rinse off after beach trips, and always keep your dog hydrated and out of the heat.
Happy summer and wagging tails to all!
Hydration and Shade Are a Must
Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If you’re out and about, bring a travel bowl and water with you. Dogs can’t sweat like humans do, so they rely on panting to cool down. Dehydration and heatstroke can set in quickly in high temperatures.
Keep walks short and in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler, and never leave your dog in a car, even for a few minutes – temperatures can soar in seconds.
Watch Out for Grass Snakes in the UK
Grass snakes are native to the UK and most commonly found in warm, damp environments like compost heaps, long grass, and near ponds. They’re harmless to humans and dogs, but a curious sniff or paw from your pet can give both a fright! While grass snakes are non-venomous and tend to flee quickly, it’s still a good idea to keep your dog on a lead when walking in tall grass or unfamiliar areas. If your dog does interact with a snake and shows any signs of distress afterwards – such as drooling, limping, or excessive licking – contact your vet just to be safe.
Washing Your Dog After Outdoor Adventures
After woodland walks or days in the garden, give your dog a wipe down to remove pollen, grass seeds, and dirt that may irritate the skin or coat. Washing your dog with a gentle, dog-safe shampoo every couple of weeks will help keep the coat in good condition – but over-washing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so don't overdo it.
Final Woof of Wisdom
Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy the great outdoors with your dog, but a little extra care goes a long way. Avoid shaving unless medically necessary, stay tick-aware, rinse off after beach trips, and always keep your dog hydrated and out of the heat.
Happy summer and wagging tails to all!
