Summer in Vaughan & GTA brings longer walks, weekends at the cottage, backyard mud puddles and a new set of grooming challenges for your dog. Whether your pup loves to swim or just sprawl out in the sun, warm weather means more shedding, more dirt, and a higher risk of skin issues.
Regular grooming during the summer isn’t just about looking good—it’s about keeping your dog cool, healthy, and happy. Here are the top summer grooming tips every pet owner should know, plus why Mobile Pet Spa is your best friend when the temperature rises.
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Why Summer Grooming Matters
As the temperature climbs, so does your dog’s activity level. From chasing balls through sprinkler-soaked grass to lounging on hot pavement, your pup’s skin and coat go through a lot. Summer grooming is essential because:
- Dogs shed more in the heat, especially double-coated breeds.
- Moisture from swimming or humidity can lead to mats, hot spots, and fungal infections.
- Increased outdoor time brings dirt, ticks, burrs, and allergens.
- Regular grooming supports airflow through the coat and helps your dog regulate body temperature.
By staying on top of grooming, you’re not just pampering your pup—you’re preventing discomfort and avoiding costly vet visits.
Summer Dog Grooming Tips
1. Keep Their Coat Clean and Trimmed
Brush your dog daily if possible, especially if they’ve been swimming or rolling in the garden. Removing dead hair improves ventilation and reduces the risk of mats. Use tools like slicker brushes, FURminators, or undercoat rakes for best results. For long-haired breeds like doodles or cockapoo, a summer trim can provide relief—but avoid shaving double-coated dogs, such as huskies, as this can damage their coat and hinder their ability to regulate heat.
2. Stay Ahead of Nail Care
Summer means more outdoor exploration, and rough terrain can both help wear down nails—or cause painful splits if they grow too long. Regular trims prevent injuries and keep paws healthy, especially when your dog is running around the cottage or park.
3. Watch for Skin Irritations
Hot spots, red patches, and flaking can develop quickly during humid months. Keep an eye out for excessive scratching or licking after swims or hikes. Mobile Pet Spa groomers are trained to gently spot and treat sensitive areas using hypoallergenic, soothing products.
4. Beat the Heat Safely
Avoid walks during the hottest parts of the day and always check pavement heat with the back of your hand. Never leave dogs in a hot car. Grooming helps improve airflow through the coat, keeping your dog cooler and more comfortable even on humid afternoons.
5. Smart Bathing Between Grooms
Dogs that swim in lakes or pools should be rinsed or bathed regularly to remove bacteria, chlorine, or mud. Use dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritating their skin, and always dry thoroughly with a pet-safe dryer to prevent matting and hot spots. Avoid air drying, which can trap moisture and lead to skin issues.
6. Keep Them Hydrated
Always ensure your dog has access to fresh, cool water. Add ice cubes to bowls on hot days or bring water on walks and outings. Proper hydration helps with temperature regulation and keeps their skin healthy.
7. Protect Their Paws
Paw pads are sensitive and can burn easily on hot pavement. Before a walk, test the pavement with the back of your hand for 5 seconds—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Walk during cooler parts of the day or stick to grassy paths.
8. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
Learn to recognize symptoms like lethargy, disorientation, pale gums, or excessive panting. If your dog seems unwell in the heat, bring them to a shaded area, offer water, and contact a vet immediately. Fast action is crucial.
9. Swimming & Cottage Grooming Tips
If your dog loves to swim at the cottage, regular rinsing after lake dips is essential. Lake water can carry bacteria, algae, or sand that may irritate your dog’s skin or ears. Be sure to dry thoroughly, including the ears, and consider booking a mid-trip groom to keep coats fresh and mat-free.
10. Stay Ahead of Fleas and Ticks
Warm weather and wooded areas mean fleas and ticks are active. Summer grooming sessions help identify and remove pests early. Ask us about de-shedding treatments and flea-safe shampoos to support your pet’s parasite prevention plan.
11. Try Summer-Friendly Grooming Products
For extra comfort and protection, ask your groomer about paw wax for heat protection, pet-safe sunscreen for short-haired or light-skinned dogs, and even cooling vests or mats to keep dogs from overheating at the park or cottage.
12. Real Life: Summer Made Simple with Mobile Grooming
Picture this: It’s 30°C in Vaughan, you’re prepping for a weekend escape to cottage country, and your dog just rolled through a muddy garden. While you load the car, Mobile Pet Spa pulls into your driveway. Our air-conditioned mobile grooming van—serving Vaughan & the GTA—keeps your dog cool, clean, and comfortable without the hassle. No traffic, no crates, no crowded salons—just expert mobile dog grooming that fits your summer lifestyle.
Why Choose Mobile Grooming in Summer
1. Skip the Hot Car Ride
Forget the stressful trip across town to a grooming salon. Our team brings the grooming to you, avoiding traffic, car heat, and long waits.
2. Cool, Air-Conditioned Vans
Our fully equipped mobile grooming vans are climate-controlled year-round. Even in 30°C+ heat, your dog enjoys a cool, calm spa experience from start to finish.
3. One-on-One Service
With Mobile Pet Spa, there’s no loud kennel room, no distractions, and no stress. It’s just your dog and their personal groomer—calm, focused, and crate-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog get a haircut in the summer?
Yes—but not every breed should be shaved. For dogs with long hair, we offer light trims to promote comfort and reduce heat retention. For double-coated breeds, we recommend de-shedding treatments instead of clipping.
How often should I groom my dog in the summer?
Every 4–6 weeks is ideal. This keeps coats fresh, reduces shedding, and gives your groomer a chance to check for skin issues or parasites. Dogs that swim or roll in mud may benefit from more frequent rinses or baths between sessions.
What if my dog has sensitive skin or hot spots?
We use gentle, hypoallergenic products including aloe vera and oatmeal shampoo. Groomers are trained to identify irritations and work carefully around any sensitive areas to avoid flare-ups.
Is mobile grooming better in the summer?
Absolutely. With air-conditioned vans, no car rides, and personalized service, mobile grooming is a safer, more convenient choice—especially during hot Ontario summers.
Do you service the entire GTA and cottage areas?
Yes! We provide mobile dog grooming across Toronto, the GTA, and several cottage country locations. Just let us know your area and we’ll do our best to fit you in.
Book Your Summer Grooming Session Today!
Make summer grooming simple, safe, and stress-free—wherever you are in Ontario. Whether you're relaxing at home in Vaughan, heading to the cottage, or living in the heart of the GTA, Mobile Pet Spa brings professional mobile dog grooming right to your door. With climate-controlled vans, personalized one-on-one care, and expert service, we keep your dog clean, comfortable, and mat-free all season long.
Visit our Packages Page or Contact Us today to book your pet’s spa day. Appointments fill fast during the summer—secure your spot now! Want to read more? Check out our other blogs for seasonal grooming tips and dog care advice from our experts.