How Often Should You Groom Your Dog in the High Desert Heat?

Victorville summers are hot and dry, and that combination is tougher on a dog's coat and skin than most pet parents realize. Heat and low humidity dry out skin, and a matted or overgrown coat traps warmth right against the body instead of letting it escape.

Why coat condition matters more in summer

A dog's coat is part of their temperature regulation system, not just their appearance. Mats and heavy undercoat buildup block airflow to the skin and can make it harder for a dog to cool down. Regular brushing and deshedding during the warmer months helps their natural cooling actually work.

A general grooming schedule

• Short-coated breeds: every 6–8 weeks, with more frequent brushing at home
• Double-coated breeds (Huskies, Shepherds, etc.): deshedding every 4–6 weeks during shedding season
• Long-haired or curly-coated breeds: every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting
• Any breed, any coat: check paw pads and between toes more often in summer — hot pavement and dry skin cause more irritation this time of year

Every dog's coat and skin are different, so these are general guidelines rather than a fixed rule — a quick call is the easiest way to figure out the right interval for your specific dog.