A summer cut for dogs is not something that should be done on a whim, as it might seem like an easy and effective option for keeping your dog cool but it’s a little more complicated than that. Whether or not your dog will benefit from a summer cut depends on their coat type and the length of their fur. For single coated dogs, depending on the length of their fur, a summer trim might be appreciated to help air circulate close to their skin. The fur should not be cut shorter than three to four centimetres, as removing too much of your dog’s fur can actually reverse the effect you’re aiming for. For double coated dogs, regularly brushing out the undercoat is already an effective way of helping your dog stay cooler during summer, because it allows air to reach your dog’s skin more easily. A light summer trim, mainly focussed on the belly, the legs and paws can make a great difference and still keep your dog’s coat intact. Shearing, however, is generally advised against as the top layer and the undercoat will grow back at different speeds, resulting in a patchy and irregular coat.