Summer in Queensland: Tough on Dogs, Especially the Fluffy Ones
Queensland summers are beautiful — but they can be brutal for our four-legged friends. High humidity, soaring temperatures, and harsh UV make the hot season especially tough on dogs with long or double coats. Without the right grooming routine, these dogs can easily overheat, suffer from skin irritation, or develop matted fur that traps heat.
The good news? With the right approach, you can keep your dog comfortable, cool, and healthy all summer long. These grooming tips will help you manage their coat safely, reduce shedding, and ensure your best friend enjoys the season as much as you do.
Why Grooming Matters More in Summer
During the warmer months, dogs shed their undercoats to help regulate body temperature. But for long-haired or double-coated breeds like Border Collies, Huskies, and Golden Retrievers, that shedding can turn into tangles and mats if not managed properly.
Regular grooming prevents matting and improves air circulation through the coat, allowing heat to escape naturally. It also removes dirt, salt, and loose fur that can irritate the skin.
Keeping your dog’s coat clean and free of tangles isn’t just about looks — it’s about health and comfort.
Key takeaway: Grooming isn’t optional in summer; it’s essential for your dog’s wellbeing.
Understanding Long and Double Coats
Before you pick up the clippers, it’s important to understand how your dog’s coat works.
Long coats act as insulation, keeping dogs warm in winter and protecting their skin from the sun in summer.
Double coats (found in breeds like Samoyeds and Shepherds) have a dense, soft undercoat that sheds seasonally, while the topcoat provides protection from heat and UV.
A common mistake is thinking that shaving a long or double coat will keep your dog cooler. In reality, it can do the opposite — removing that natural insulation exposes their skin to sunburn and interferes with their ability to regulate body temperature.
Instead of shaving, focus on regular deshedding, brushing, and trimming to thin out the coat safely while keeping its protective structure intact.
Recognising Signs of Heat Stress
Even with good grooming habits and all the grooming tips in the world, dogs can still struggle in extreme heat. Knowing what to watch for can save your pet from serious harm.
Warning signs of heat stress include:
Heavy panting or excessive drooling
Bright red gums or tongue
Lethargy or unsteady movement
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Collapse or loss of consciousness
If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a shaded, cool area immediately, offer small amounts of water, and contact a vet right away.
Preventing heat stress starts with smart coat management, regular brushing, and avoiding long walks or outdoor play during the hottest parts of the day.
Grooming Tips for the Summer Season
Here are some grooming tips to keep your pup feeling fresh, cool, and comfortable this summer:
Brush Regularly
Daily or every-other-day brushing removes loose hair and prevents matting. Use a slicker brush or undercoat rake for double-coated breeds.
Bathe Smartly
Give your dog a bath every three to four weeks using a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo. Avoid over-washing, as it can strip natural oils and dry out the skin.
Condition the Coat
Light, leave-in conditioners or detangling sprays can keep long coats manageable and reduce static during dry spells.
Check Paws and Ears
Trim excess fur around paw pads to prevent dirt buildup and check ears for moisture or irritation — both common in humid weather.
Hydrate from the Inside Out
Always provide fresh, cool water and consider adding wet food to your dog’s diet to boost hydration.
These small steps can make a huge difference in keeping your dog cool and comfortable through Queensland’s warm months.
At-Home Maintenance Between Grooming Sessions
Even if your dog visits a professional groomer, following our grooming tips with maintenance at home keeps their coat and skin in top condition.
Brushing: Aim for short, consistent sessions instead of one long brushing marathon.
Cooling breaks: Use damp towels or cooling mats after outdoor play.
Shaded rest areas: Always ensure your dog has access to shade and ventilation.
For dogs with thick coats, a high-velocity dryer or a professional grooming blowout helps remove trapped undercoat that can’t be brushed out at home.
When It’s Time to See a Professional Groomer
Sometimes, a little extra help goes a long way. Professional groomers have the right tools and experience to safely manage dense coats, remove dead undercoat, and style fur for both comfort and protection.
Book a professional groom if you notice:
Persistent matting or tangles
Excessive shedding that regular brushing can’t control
Skin irritation, dryness, or dandruff
A thick undercoat even after brushing
A full groom can also include nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sanitary trims — all of which are important for your dog’s comfort and hygiene, especially in summer.
Breeds That Need Extra Summer Care
Some dogs naturally need more grooming attention through the hot months. Breeds like:
Golden Retrievers
Siberian Huskies
Border Collies
Pomeranians
Australian Shepherds
These dogs have double coats that shed heavily and can trap heat. Our grooming tips for these dogs are regular deshedding and proper blow-drying after baths are vital to prevent overheating.
Short-haired breeds like Staffies or Beagles need less coat care, but they still benefit from baths, ear checks, and paw maintenance.
Beyond the Coat: Full-Body Summer Care
Good grooming is about more than brushing. Keep an eye on other areas affected by Queensland’s heat:
Paws: Asphalt and sand can burn paws in seconds — check surfaces before walks.
Nose: Apply dog-safe balm to prevent dryness and cracking.
Eyes: Trim long fringe or hair that may irritate the eyes.
A few extra minutes of attention can help prevent discomfort and potential vet visits later in the season.
Keep Cool and Comfortable All Summer Long
Regular grooming keeps your dog not only looking their best but feeling their best too. Maintaining a clean, brushed, and well-ventilated coat helps your furry friend cope with the Queensland summer and reduces the risk of heat-related illness.
If you’re unsure where to start or need professional help managing a thick or double coat, it’s always best to seek expert advice.
🐾 Book your summer groom with Toni’s Pet Station in Ningi — your local grooming specialists who know how to keep every coat type cool, healthy, and perfectly styled for the season.