Summer Coat Care in Dubai: Keeping Your Pet Cool

From May to September, Dubai is one of the hottest urban environments on earth. Your pet's coat is their primary defence against heat, but only if it is properly maintained. A matted, dirty, or improperly managed coat traps heat instead of deflecting it. Summer grooming in the UAE is not cosmetic. It is temperature regulation.

The most common mistake owners make is shaving double-coated breeds in summer. Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Samoyeds, and similar breeds have a coat structure designed to insulate against both heat and cold. The undercoat traps air, creating a buffer between the skin and the environment. Shaving removes this system and exposes the skin to direct sun, increasing the risk of sunburn and heat absorption. The coat often grows back improperly, with a cottony texture that mats more easily.

Instead of shaving, invest in professional deshedding treatments. A thorough deshed removes the loose undercoat while preserving the protective guard hairs. This allows air to circulate close to the skin while maintaining UV protection. Schedule deshedding every 4 to 6 weeks during the hot months.

For breeds with continuously growing coats (Poodles, Maltese, Bichons, Doodle crosses), a shorter summer trim is appropriate and practical. Many owners opt for a "summer cut" of 1 to 2 inches, which reduces bulk while still protecting the skin. Discuss the best length with your groomer based on your pet's specific coat type and outdoor exposure.

Bathing frequency may increase in summer due to swimming, sand, and increased sweating from paw pads. Use a gentle, moisturising shampoo formulated for pets. Human shampoo has a different pH and strips natural oils from the coat. Over-bathing can dry the skin, so balance cleanliness with coat health. Every 2 to 3 weeks is usually appropriate in summer.

Hydration affects coat health directly. A dehydrated pet will develop a dry, brittle coat that is more prone to matting and breakage. Ensure your pet has constant access to fresh, cool water. Adding a splash of low-sodium bone broth can encourage reluctant drinkers. Some owners add ice cubes to water bowls, which most dogs enjoy.

Air conditioning, while essential for survival in a UAE summer, creates its own coat challenges. The constant cycling between extreme outdoor heat and cold indoor air can dry the skin and coat. A humidifier in the room where your pet spends the most time can help. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements (fish oil) support skin hydration and coat quality from the inside out.

Paw care intensifies in summer. Hot surfaces cause pad burns, and sand can abrade and dry the pads. Apply a pet-safe paw balm 2 to 3 times per week. After walks, rinse paws with cool water to remove sand and check for cracks or blisters. If your dog will tolerate them, protective booties are the most effective prevention for hot-surface burns.

Ears need extra attention in summer. Swimming, humidity, and increased outdoor activity raise the risk of ear infections. Check ears weekly for redness, odour, or discharge. Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing. Breeds with floppy ears (Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Cavalier King Charles) are at highest risk.

Summer grooming is ultimately about comfort. A well-groomed pet in the UAE heat is more comfortable, more active, and healthier than one whose coat is neglected. Invest in regular professional grooming during the hot months. Your pet will thank you with fewer skin problems, better temperature regulation, and a coat that actually does its job.

This article is general guidance for pet parents in the UAE, not veterinary advice for your individual animal. Every pet is different. For a diagnosis, treatment, or any concern about your pet's health, speak to a qualified vet. If you think your pet needs urgent care, contact a vet straight away.