With summer arriving, many of our canine pals are enjoying the chance to run and play outdoors. Fido is wearing a fur coat, so he can get hot pretty easily. A summer cut may be just the thing! Read on as a local Des Moines, IA vet discusses clipping Fido’s fur.

Benefits

A shorter summer ‘do may actually be quite beneficial. For one thing, it will help keep him cooler. If your dog has long fur, you’ll also be spared the hassle of removing tangles and mats. Plus, your canine buddy may look absolutely adorable!

Options

There are several different haircuts your pooch can get. If you choose the Puppy cut, Fido’s fur will be trimmed evenly all over, typically with about 2 inches of length left. The Teddy Bear cut is super cute, and leaves your furry pal’s head and face longer than the rest of it. If you want to try something a little bolder, opt for a Lion cut or a Lamb cut.

Choosing the Cut

Keep Fido’s personality and lifestyle in mind when picking a cut. If your canine companion loves to roll in mud, he may not be a good candidate for a fancy ‘do. Look at photos of dogs that look like your pup, and see what you think you like. Of course, even if you don’t care for the cut, you don’t need to worry: it will soon grow back!

Maintenance

Summer haircuts can change a dog’s home grooming needs. Fido may need to be brushed or bathed more often than usual. Or, the opposite could be true: you may not need to do anything for a while. This is also something to consider, so talk to your groomer before deciding.

Is A Cut Right For Fido?

While a summer trim is a great option for many pups, this isn’t an across-the-board recommendation. If your four-legged friend has a double coat, a trim could damage his fur. This can lead to long-term skin/fur problems. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Tips

Doggy haircuts should only be done by trained professionals. Never try to cut your furry buddy’s coat yourself. It’s also important to find a groomer you trust. Do some shopping, and ask your vet for recommendations. Please reach out to us, your local Des Moines, IA vet clinic, for your pup’s grooming needs. We love making dogs look great!