In addition to cooling it, the dog’s fur coat protects it from the sun. Without it, a dog is liable to get sunburn, and is more susceptible to skin cancer. [1] X Research source Some (not all) experts suggest that certain dogs that were bred for extreme cold weather climates do have coats that are too thick for warm summers. Consult with your veterinarian and ask if your dog might be a bit too hairy for its own good. Even in cases where your dog might need a bit of grooming, don’t overdo it. You should leave at least an inch of hair to protect it from the sun. [2] X Research source

Ask your veterinarian if myiasis is a serious concern for your dog. Even if your dog does have the previously mentioned risk factors, the condition can typically be prevented if you keep your dog clean and are attentive to open wounds. [4] X Research source

For some people this might be a difficult sum to raise, but generally your dog can do – and might even be better of – without the trim. Therefore, if the choice is between shaving it yourself and not shaving it at all, usually not shaving it is the better option. When shaving your dog, there is a risk that you will injure it. When this is considered, it is quite likely that a professional grooming is the cheaper option; a vet bill will cost more than any bath and shave.

If you know that your dog is often startled by loud noises, test the various clippers available to see how loud they are. Pick one that won’t make much noise. [8] X Research source Purchase an E comb. This comb is designed to leave an inch of hair left, which is the length typically recommended.

If you are having trouble figuring out what direction to shave, take a credit card and rub it along the hair. If you begin picking up the hair and pulling it backward, you are pushing against the grain of the hair. You will want to shave in the opposite direction.

A good order is head, underarms, under-tail, behind the head, back, sides, belly. Unless your dog is completely still you should skip its face altogether. Even then, stay at least an inch from the eye while shaving. [13] X Research source