Summer in Colorado means more sunshine, more hiking trails, and more time outdoors with your dog. It also brings unique grooming challenges that many pet owners do not think about until they start noticing extra shedding, dry skin, tangled coats, or dusty paws. While your dog’s grooming routine may not completely change during the summer months, there are a few important adjustments that can help keep them comfortable in Colorado’s climate.
Colorado Summers Can Dry Out the Coat
Colorado’s dry air affects more than just people. Dogs can experience dry skin and brittle coats during the summer, especially when combined with extra sun exposure and outdoor activity.
You may notice:
- Increased scratching
- Flaky skin
- Dull looking coats
- Dry paw pads
Regular grooming helps remove buildup while keeping the skin and coat healthier through the season. Using the right shampoos and conditioners also helps lock in moisture and support skin health.
Shedding Often Gets Worse in Summer
Many dogs shed heavily going into summer, especially double coated breeds common in Colorado like huskies, shepherds, retrievers, and mountain dogs. Their undercoat loosens as temperatures rise, which can quickly turn your house into a fur storm.
Regular brushing and de shedding treatments help:
- Remove trapped undercoat
- Improve airflow through the coat
- Reduce excess shedding around the house
- Keep your dog more comfortable outdoors
Skipping grooming during heavy shedding season can lead to matting and trapped heat within the coat.
Hiking, Dirt, and Foxtails Mean More Maintenance
Colorado dogs tend to live active lifestyles. Between trails, parks, camping trips, and mountain adventures, coats collect dust, debris, pollen, and burrs much faster during the summer months.
Foxtails and dry grass can also become an issue, especially around:
- Paw pads
- Ears
- Legs and underbelly
Routine grooming helps catch these issues early before they become uncomfortable or lead to irritation.
Shaving Is Not Always Best
One of the biggest misconceptions about summer grooming is that shaving every dog short will keep them cooler. In reality, many coats help regulate body temperature and protect the skin from direct sun exposure.
For many double coated breeds, shaving too short can actually make it harder for them to stay comfortable in the heat. A proper trim and de shedding treatment is often a better solution than a full shave.
A professional groomer can help determine what works best based on your dog’s coat type and lifestyle.
Keep Summer Comfortable
Summer grooming in Colorado is all about maintenance, consistency, and helping your dog stay comfortable through the heat and dry conditions. A healthy coat, regular brushing, and routine grooming appointments all make a noticeable difference during the busiest outdoor season of the year.
And after a long day exploring Colorado, a clean, fresh dog always feels a little better.
Need help managing shedding, dry coats, or summer messes? We’re here to help keep your dog comfortable all season long.
