Shaving the dog in the summer good or bad?

[lilmisszarah]

I know that many people shave their dogs in the summer to keep them cool, but then I've also heard that the fur can protect the dog from the heat.

We have a bichon and he's only outside to go to the bathroom or to play, so I wouldn't say he spends a lot of time outside, but we do not have A/C and I'm afraid he will be too hot inside this summer. This is our first summer with him so I don't know how he'll react.

Should I shave him short or just keep him groomed like I normally do?

[tftmom]

I groomed professionally for over 20 years. As long as the coat is brushed out so air circulates to the skin, it does act as insulation helping to keep the dog cool and also protect from sunburn. I do trim my dog shorter (but not shaved) for the summer but that is so we both can enjoy the outdoors without me having to brush as much (which we BOTH appreciate!). It is a matter of personal preference and lifestyle.

If your house gets so hot during the day that your dog suffers, the length of its coat won't matter, too hot is too hot. I doubt it is really a problem.