You’ve seen the headlines. PDSA is warning about overheating. BIGA has issued emergency guidance for groomers. Your dog has been panting all afternoon. And somewhere in the back of your mind, you’re wondering whether booking a groom could actually help.
It can — if you do it right. Do it wrong, and you could put your dog at risk.
This is the honest answer.
Quick answer
Yes, a proper groom during hot weather can help your dog stay cooler and healthier. But it’s not as simple as “shave the dog and you’re done.” The right approach depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, and the actual temperature on the day of the appointment.
What’s happening right now
The UK is in the middle of a serious heatwave. We’re talking 30°C+ in many areas — unusual even for summer. Pet owners are seeing dogs panting heavily, seeking shade, struggling on walks, and in extreme cases developing heatstroke.
The British Isles Grooming Association has issued formal guidance telling professional groomers to take extra precautions. PDSA has warned owners about the dangers of overheating. And yet most pet owners still have two questions:
- Should I get my dog groomed right now?
- How do I find a groomer who’ll do it safely?
The grooming decision: what depends on your dog
Double-coated breeds (German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Border Collie, Husky)
Your dog has two coats: a soft insulating undercoat and a harder outer layer. The outer layer reflects heat. Removing it actually makes your dog hotter, not cooler.
A proper groomer will de-shed the undercoat and trim around the edges without shaving the coat down to the skin. This maintains the natural insulation while removing excess fur that traps heat.
Do not accept a groomer who offers to shave a double-coated breed to the skin. This damages the coat permanently, removes UV protection, and can cause “coat dysfunction” where the fur never grows back properly.
Single-coated breeds (Poodle, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Cockapoo, Cavapoo)
These dogs have one type of fur that keeps growing. A summer trim — keeping the coat short but not skin-close — genuinely helps them stay cooler. Many groomers offer a “summer cut” that’s specifically designed for hot weather.
Working breeds and short-haired dogs (Labrador, Boxer, Dachshund)
These dogs usually don’t need much grooming in summer. A good wash and a check for ticks and skin problems is often enough. The main risk for short-haired dogs in heat isn’t their coat — it’s the tarmac under their paws.
When to book and when to hold off
Book now if:
- Your dog has a long coat that’s starting to mat
- It’s been over six weeks since the last groom
- Your dog is a breed that benefits from a summer trim (single-coated breeds)
- You can book an early morning appointment
Wait or call first if:
- Your dog has never been groomed before (first-time clients need more time and care)
- Temperatures are forecast above 35°C on the appointment day
- Your dog is already showing signs of heat stress (excessive panting, drooling, lethargy)
- Your dog has a medical condition (ask your vet first)
How to find a groomer who takes heat seriously
This is where most pet owners make a mistake. They book the first available slot without checking whether the groomer has proper facilities.
Ask these three questions before you book:
1. Do you have air conditioning or fans in the grooming area?
A proper grooming salon will have climate control. If the groomer works from home with no ventilation, your dog is sitting in a hot room being handled with potentially hot tools.
2. How do you handle nervous dogs in hot weather?
Heat makes anxiety worse. A good groomer will offer shorter sessions, more breaks, and won’t rush through the appointment. If they say “dogs don’t mind the heat,” that’s a red flag.
3. What happens if my dog starts showing signs of overheating?
The answer should be “we stop immediately, offer water, and let the dog cool down.” If they can’t give you a straight answer, find someone else.
Common mistakes
Shaving a double-coated dog. This is the single biggest error. Owners think “less fur equals cooler” but it’s the opposite. The topcoat is designed to protect against heat and sun. Strip it and your dog loses that protection.
Booking midday appointments. Grooming takes time — often 60 to 90 minutes. A 1 pm appointment in 32°C weather means your dog is in the salon during peak heat for over an hour. Book early morning or late afternoon instead.
Leaving your dog in the car. Even with windows down. The temperature inside a parked car climbs to dangerous levels within minutes, even in spring and early summer.
Skipping the pre-groom brush. If your dog has mats, tell the groomer before you go. They may need more time or a different approach. Mats pull on the skin when a dog is hot, which adds real discomfort.
Expert tips from professional groomers
Bring your own water. Most groomers provide water, but bringing a bottle with your dog’s familiar water (or even a little of their usual food as a treat) helps reduce stress.
Book the earliest slot. 8 am or 9 am appointments are cooler for both you and your dog. The salon has been cooling overnight, and your dog won’t be exposed to peak daytime heat.
Tell the groomer about your dog’s age and health. Senior dogs and brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldog, Pug) are especially vulnerable to heat. A good groomer will adjust their approach accordingly.
Consider a “pawdicure” instead of a full groom if temperatures spike. If it’s genuinely too hot, a nail trim and paw pad check is still valuable. Clean, trimmed paws mean less heat absorption from hot surfaces.
What heatstroke looks like (and what to do)
Heatstroke is an emergency. If your dog shows these signs, stop everything and cool them down:
- Heavy, continuous panting that doesn’t settle
- Bright red or purple gums
- Excessive drooling
- Staggering or collapse
- Vomiting
Call your vet immediately. Do not wait to see if your dog “comes round.” Heatstroke damages internal organs within minutes.
FAQs
Is it safe to take my dog to the groomers in a heatwave?
Yes, as long as the groomer has proper cooling facilities and you book an early morning appointment. Call ahead and ask about their heat policies.
Should I shave my fluffy dog to keep it cool?
It depends on the breed. Double-coated breeds (German Shepherd, Golden Retriever) should never be shaved to the skin. Single-coated breeds (Poodle, Cockapoo) can have a short summer trim.
What time of day is best for grooming in hot weather?
Early morning (8-10 am) is ideal. The salon is cooler, and your dog avoids peak daytime temperatures.
Can my older dog still go to the groomers in summer?
Yes, but with extra caution. Senior dogs are more vulnerable to heat. Tell the groomer your dog’s age and any health conditions so they can adjust.
My dog gets anxious at the groomers — is summer worse?
Yes. Heat increases stress in dogs. A good groomer will offer breaks, use calming techniques, and won’t rush. If your current groomer doesn’t adapt, consider finding one who specialises in nervous dogs.
Do I need to groom my short-haired dog in summer?
Not necessarily. A bath, tick check, and nail trim is usually enough. The main thing is keeping your dog cool and hydrated.
How often should I groom my dog in summer?
For long-coated breeds, every 4-6 weeks is ideal in summer (shorter than the usual 6-8 weeks) because heat accelerates matting. Single-coated breeds can go longer between trims.
What should I do immediately after the groom?
Bring your dog home to a cool environment. Offer fresh water. Don’t take them for a long walk straight after — they’ve just used energy staying calm.
Find a proper groomer near you
If you’re looking for a dog groomer who takes heat safety seriously, BookMyGroomer helps you find verified local professionals. Browse groomers in your area and check their profiles for reviews, services, and contact details.
This article is for general information only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your dog shows signs of serious heat stress, contact your vet immediately.