10 Summer Grooming Tips for Your Precious Pups

PRIDE + GROOM offers practical yet often overlooked ways to keep Fido stylish and safe this summer

As temperatures rise and outdoor adventures ramp up, summer grooming becomes essential for keeping dogs healthy, comfortable, and adventure-ready. In Palomino County, dogs are treated like people and carry a sense of pride and joy. As such, we reached out to Paige Chernick of PRIDE+GROOM to get her tips on making sure our precious pups have it made this summer.  

Enjoy these smart, stylish, and practical insights to help navigate the “dog days of summer” with confidence and ease. Rugger, Duke, and Pickles will thank you!

TIP #1: Rinse After Every Swim 

Whether your dog just leapt out of the pool or splashed through the ocean, a thorough rinse after every dip is non-negotiable. Chlorine, salt, sand and bacteria can linger in the coat and irritate the skin if left to sit. A quick rinse with clean water goes a long way. Follow up with a proper bath using a coat-specific shampoo when needed.

TIP #2:  Don't Skip the Detangle After Beach Days

Sand, salt water, and wind are a recipe for knots, especially in longer or curlier coats. Our product tip: After rinsing your dog off post-beach, reach for THE LEAVE IN conditioner. This reparative, gloss-inducing spray can be applied directly to a wet or damp coat , no rinsing necessary. It instantly smooths tangles, reduces matting, and adds a healthy shine, making brushing effortless. Spray it on, work it through the coat with a brush, and let summer do the rest.

TIP #3: Know Your Coat Type Before You Cut 

Not every dog should get a summer shave. Dogs with thick double coats (think Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and Malamutes) actually rely on their coat to regulate body temperature and protect their skin from the sun. A trim can help with airflow, but shaving can disrupt their natural insulation cycle and leave their skin vulnerable to UV damage. Breeds like Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichon Frises benefit from a professional trim to keep things manageable—but always consult your groomer before going short.

TIP #4: Protect Those Paws from Hot Pavement

Here's a simple test: if the pavement is too hot to hold your hand against for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Sidewalks and asphalt can reach scorching temperatures in direct summer sun, causing burns and cracking on sensitive paw pads. Before heading out, apply THE BALM to your dog's paws to create a protective, moisturizing barrier against the heat. It soothes, protects, and is especially useful in extreme weather. And yes, it works on dry elbows and noses too.

TIP #5: Watch for Signs of Overheating During Grooming 

Grooming sessions can be stressful for some dogs, and in the summer heat, that stress compounds quickly. Always groom in a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned space and never use hot water! Keep an eye out for excessive panting, drooling, or weakness — these can be early signs of heat exhaustion. Keep fresh water nearby and take breaks as needed.

TIP #6: Don't Over-Bathe 

It's tempting to bathe your dog after every muddy adventure or swim session, but over-bathing can strip the natural oils from your dog's skin and coat, leading to dryness, irritation, and dullness. Most dogs only need a full bath every few weeks, or as needed. For everything in between, our MANE TAME Waterless Shampoo is your go-to. Light, foamy, and incredibly easy to use, it cleans, deodorizes, and refreshes the coat without a single drop of water. Just pump it into your hand, massage it into the coat, and you're done. No rinsing, no residue. Just a clean, happy dog.

TIP #7: Brush More Frequently in Summer 

Increased outdoor activity means more opportunities for debris, burrs, and tangles to work their way into your dog's coat. Regular brushing not only keeps the coat clean and mat-free but also helps remove loose fur, improving airflow to the skin and keeping your dog cooler. For heavy shedders, daily brushing during peak summer months can make a real difference.

TIP #8: Check for Fleas and Ticks AfteR Outdoor AdventureS 

Summer is prime season for fleas and ticks, and every grooming session is an opportunity to check for them—especially around the ears, neck, belly, and between the toes. Run your fingers through the coat slowly and thoroughly. Talk to your vet about a flea and tick prevention program before the season ramps up, so you're ahead of it rather than reacting to it. Try our PROUD Signature Scent: a natural deterrent against ticks, using only essential oils to repel against pests.

TIP #9: Don't Forget the Face, Ears, and Paws 

After swimming or a beach trip, moisture can get trapped in the ears, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. Gently dry the ears with a soft towel after water activities and check regularly for any redness or odor. The same goes for paws: sand and debris love to collect between the toes. A quick wipe or rinse after every outing keeps irritation at bay.

TIP #10: Sunscreen Isn't Just for Humans 

Dogs with light-colored or thin coats, and those with short hair, can get sunburned—particularly on the tips of the ears, the nose, and around the groin. If your pup falls into this category and spends time in direct sun, look into pet-safe sunscreen for vulnerable areas. And always make sure there's shade available, whether that's a tree, umbrella, or canopy, because a cool retreat is as important as any grooming product in your summer toolkit.

At the end of the hot day, summer is meant to be enjoyed…by you and your dog. A little extra grooming attention goes a long way in keeping them comfortable, healthy, and happy all season long.

To snag your necessary summer dog grooming products, head on over to PRIDE + GROOM.

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