Summer Is Coming — Is Your Dog Ready?
Gilbert summers mean triple-digit temperatures for months on end. While you retreat to air conditioning, your dog still needs walks, potty breaks, and exercise. Preparation is everything.
Grooming for the Heat
Don't Shave Double-Coated Breeds
It's tempting to think shaving your Husky or Golden Retriever will keep them cool, but the opposite is true. A double coat:
- Insulates against heat — the undercoat traps cool air against the skin
- Protects from sunburn — shaved dogs can get severe sunburns
- May not grow back correctly — shaving can permanently damage the coat texture
Instead, get a professional deshedding treatment to remove the loose undercoat and improve air circulation.
Keep Single-Coated Dogs Trimmed
Breeds with hair (not fur) — like Poodles, Yorkies, and Doodles — benefit from a shorter summer cut. Discuss the best length with your groomer based on your dog's lifestyle.
Paw Maintenance
Summer paw care is critical:
- Regular nail trims — overgrown nails are worse on hot surfaces
- Paw pad conditioning — moisturize pads to prevent cracking on hot, dry ground
- Pad checks — inspect for burns, cuts, or embedded debris after every outdoor session
Hydration Strategies
Dehydration can happen fast in Arizona heat. Beyond the obvious "always have water available":
- Add ice cubes to water bowls — many dogs drink more when water is cold
- Multiple water stations — place bowls in every room and outside
- Carry water on walks — collapsible bowls or dog water bottles are essential
- Frozen treats — freeze dog-safe broth in ice cube trays or Kong toys
- Watch for dehydration signs — dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, loss of skin elasticity
Exercise Adjustments
Time It Right
- Before 7 AM — the only safe window for vigorous exercise
- After 8 PM — pavement has had time to cool (test with your hand first)
- Avoid midday entirely — even shade isn't enough when it's 115°F
Indoor Alternatives
- Mental stimulation — puzzle toys, training sessions, hide-and-seek
- Indoor fetch — hallways work for small to medium dogs
- Sniff walks — slow, short walks focused on mental stimulation rather than physical exercise
- Doggy playdates — indoor socialization keeps energy levels managed
Home Setup
Cooling Solutions
- Elevated dog beds — air circulates underneath, keeping your dog cooler than a flat bed on the floor
- Cooling mats — gel-based mats that absorb body heat
- Fan access — a fan near their bed helps, especially in garages or covered patios
- Kiddie pool — for supervised outdoor splash time during cooler hours
Never Leave Your Dog in a Car
This cannot be overstated. Even with windows cracked, a car interior can reach 140°F in minutes in Arizona. It's also illegal — Arizona law allows bystanders to break car windows to rescue animals in distress.
Sun Protection
Yes, dogs can get sunburned, especially:
- Light-colored dogs with thin coats
- Hairless breeds
- Dogs with pink noses or skin
- Recently shaved dogs
Use pet-safe sunscreen on the nose, ear tips, and belly. Human sunscreen contains ingredients toxic to dogs — always use a product formulated for pets.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms include:
- Excessive panting that doesn't stop
- Bright red tongue and gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Staggering or collapse
- Thick, sticky saliva
If you suspect heatstroke: move your dog to shade or AC immediately, apply cool (not cold) water to their body, and go to the emergency vet now.
Get your pup summer-ready. Book with Gordie's Grooming — deshedding, trims, and express grooming in Gilbert, AZ.