Think you’re doing your dog a favor by shaving off all of that heavy fur? Think again! This thermal imaging shows that fur actually helps your dog regulate his or her own temperature.
This is a thermal image of a dog with a lion cut shave. The non-shaved portion of his body registers 75 degrees F (24 C), while the shaved portion is 86 degrees F (30 C).
A dog’s hair is present for several reasons, but perhaps most importantly, for thermal regulation.
Shaving a dog does NOT make it cooler, and you’re not helping them.
Brushing to remove dead fur, providing shade – or even better – air conditioning, and keeping the water dish filled are much better strategies.
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!