As the hotter months arrive in Northamptonshire, we’re all shedding layers to make the most of the sunshine — but are our furry friends feeling the heat too? Many owners wonder whether shaving or trimming their pet’s coat could help keep them cool, especially breeds or species with longer or thicker fur.

It’s a common instinct, but the answer isn’t always straightforward. Below, our veterinary team at Northlands are here to advise on when it’s appropriate to trim or groom your pet for summer, and which pets should never be shaved.

If you’re unsure about how to best keep your pet happy and healthy this summer, make an appointment for tailored advice on summer pet care.

Book a grooming consultation with our team

Summer Grooming for Cats, Dogs and Small Pets

Should I shave my dog for summer?

Our Northampton vets advise against a seasonal trim for many dog breeds, as their coats are designed to provide natural insulation, trapping cool air to keep their temperature from rising and protecting their skin.

Northlands also warns against shaving double-coated breeds, including Arctic and spitz dogs like Siberian Husky and Samoyed, herding breeds like German Shepherd, retrievers like Golden Retriever, and small breeds like Pomeranians.

However, there can be exceptions for certain breeds who have hair rather than fur, or continuously growing coats, such as the Poodle, Shih Tzu and Maltese.

If you are unsure whether it is safe to trim your dog, get in touch and our friendly team at Northlands will provide tailored advice.

Should I shave my cat for summer?

No, you should not shave your cat for summer. A cat’s coat acts as natural insulation — so removing it can increase the risk of stress, sunburn and overheating for both short and long-haired cats.

Should I shave my guinea pig or rabbit?

For small pets like rabbits and Guinea pigs, our vets in Northampton warn against shaving. Their fur helps regulate body temperature and protects their delicate skin, so removing it can lead to stress, injury, or difficulty staying warm or cool.

When is it ok to shave my pet?

There are a few exceptions where shaving may be recommended under professional guidance:

• Severe matting that can’t be safely brushed out
• Medical reasons (e.g., surgery or skin conditions)
• Elderly or overweight pets that struggle to groom themselves properly

In these cases, a vet or groomer may suggest a partial trim or targeted shave to keep the pet comfortable while protecting their skin and insulation.

Safe alternatives to keep your pet cool

Our Northampton vets recommend focusing on simple, safe ways to help your pet stay comfortable during warmer weather, without the need for shaving.

• Fresh water always available
• Shade and airflow: keep pets out of direct sun and keep their environment ventilated.
• Cool resting areas: tiles, damp towels, or cooling mats.
• Avoid peak heat: walk dogs early morning or late evening.
• Grooming instead of shaving: regular brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
• Extra cooling options: cold treats or chilled veggies (species-appropriate)

Simple care and the right advice can make all the difference this summer. If you’d like to speak to our vets in Northampton about your pet’s coat, book an appointment today.

Get personalised advice on summer grooming and care