Is it safe to shave my Australian Shepherd's thick coat for summer?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 40 lbs
I have an Australian Shepherd, with a very thick, heavy coat of hair. I've been debating about shaving her to help keep her cool and also to reduce the weight so that she'll be able to be more active. Some people say this is not good for the dog, others who have done it seem to firmly believe it helps. Wonder what your thoughts are on this?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 10th, 2019
A dog's coats is designed to capture air and use it as an insulator. In the winter, this keeps the cold out and holds the heat in. During the summer, this system holds the heat at bay and helps your dog regulate his body temperature. Without this insulating layer of hair, he is susceptible to heat stroke. So, shaving is not a good idea.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 13th, 2018
Thank you for submitting your question regarding your dog. Trimming the hair in the summer time will definitely help to keep her cooler. However, if it is shaved very close to the skin, she will run risk of a sunburn. Just as in humans, if the skin has not received mucuh sun exposure in the past, it will burn easily. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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