Can shaving dogs cool down in summer? Is there any scientific basis?

Jan 23,2024
4Min

The hot summer is here again. Many dog-loving owners feel that it is cool to have a short haircut, so they think of giving their dogs a fashionable shave or simply shaving them and taking off their fur coats so that their dogs will no longer suffer from the summer weather. of suffering. But is shaving your dog really good? Can shaving your dog really cool down?

Can shaving dogs cool down in summer?

Shaving your dog’s hair cannot cool it down

Humans take off their clothes when they feel hot, and the wind cools them down because human skin has sweat glands that can dissipate heat through perspiration. However, dogs have underdeveloped sweat glands, and shaving their fur does not help dissipate heat.

Animals' fur is used to keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter, so shaving their fur actually interferes with their ability to regulate their own body temperature.

"A dog's fur is like insulation for your house," said Dr. Louise Murray, associate director of animal hospitals for the ASPCA Animal Hospital. "Insulation prevents your home from getting too cold in the winter, But it can also prevent it from overheating in the summer – your dog’s fur does the same thing.”

The risk is greater when shaving

When shaving, shave the dog directly to the skin. In fact, this is very risky. First of all, the cutter head will heat up during the shaving process, which can easily damage the hair follicles. Secondly, incorrect shaving techniques can also damage the hair follicles or even break them. Therefore, if the owner insists on shaving the dog, it is best not to shave it all over the skin. You can go to a professional beautician to shave it instead of doing it yourself. The owner can leave half a centimeter to a centimeter in length on the dog. With a little trimming, the dog can look very beautiful and look much cooler, satisfying the owner's vision.

Skin resistance becomes worse after shaving

In addition to functioning as a cooling system, your dog's coat also protects him from sunburn and skin cancer. Dog hair can achieve thermal insulation effect. It blocks ultraviolet rays in summer and keeps warm in winter. In addition, hair can also help dogs resist pests. However, without the protection of hair, dogs are vulnerable to mosquito bites, sunburn, and even allergies. Moreover, such exposed skin is more likely to be scratched by claws, leading to wound inflammation and infection.

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