Summer for dog owners is all about getting out and about in the sun with their furry best friends. But all that hiking, swimming and playing can leave your dog a tad dirty and disheveled at the end of the day.

Below are our top natural tips for keeping your pupper perfectly groomed this Summer season!

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Brush it Out

The #1 thing you can do to keep your dog well groomed in the hotter months is to brush them daily. This encourages healthy blood circulation to the skin, removes excess hair, and allows fresh, cool air into the coat.

For double coated dogs, like Border Collies and Retrievers, don’t clip them. Uh-huh girl, forget what you’ve heard. These doggos use their undercoats as insulation to keep them cool on a hot summer’s day. A daily brush is enough to prevent too much shedding.

DIY Natural Dog Wipes

Hands up everyone who’s had to wipe off muddy paws, or shake off sandy coats after the day at the park or beach? Everyone that’s who.

With this quick and easy DIY Natural Dog Wipes tutorial, you’ll never have to worry about this again. Pack these babies in the car, at the back door or wherever you need to give your dog a quick once over (but can’t give him an actual bath.)

They’re waaaaay cheaper than buying wipes, can be easily disposed/recycled, and have no nasties – keeping your dog fresh and clean in one swipe.

You’ll Need:

• • Roll of Paper Towel
  • Square Plastic Container (with airtight lid)
  • 1 x Tablespoon Coconut Oil
  • 3 Tablespoons Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap (or alternative all natural soap)
  • 1 Cup Boiling Water

To Make:

1. Using a bread knife, cut your paper towel roll in half (or thirds, depending on the height of your container) and place inside container.
2. Combine coconut oil, liquid soap and boiling water and whisk til thoroughly mixed.
3. Allow mixture to cool slightly, and while still warm, pour over the paper towel and then cover with lid. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes, then turn upside down and allow to sit for a further 10 minutes.
4. Once the liquid is absorbed, remove the cardboard roll from middle and your wipes are ready to be used! Simply grab from the center roll and gently wipe down your dog’s coat, outer ears, paws and anywhere that requires attention. Always wipe in the direction of the coat and never rub.

Handy Tip: Consider adding a few drops of essential oil to the mix. Lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus and rosemary are all oils that benefit a healthy coat AND naturally repel fleas. Win win!

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DIY Natural Dog Shampoo

Big day at the beach? If the wipes aren’t gonna cut it and you need to give your dog a proper bath, simply grab the same few ingredients to make a 100% natural dog shampoo.

You’ll Need:

• • Empty Clean Bottle
  • 1 x Tablespoon Coconut Oil
  • 3 Tablespoons Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap
  • 1 Cup Boiling Water

To Make:

1. Combine all ingredients and whisk til thoroughly mixed.
2. Cool completely and pour into empty bottle.
3. Shake well before use, massage into your dog’s wet coat and rinse well.

Handy Tip: To boost your dog’s flea protection and protect them from hotspots in summer, add a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar to your shampoo mix. 

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DIY Natural Ear Cleaning

Got a dog that loves swimming? Just like us, lots of swimming can lead to lots of ear infections in dogs. This handy DIY ear cleaner – made of all natural ingredients – can keep your doggo’s ears in tip top shape all summer long.

You’ll Need:

• • Cotton Wool Pads/Balls
  • 1 x Tablespoon Cocnut Oil
  • 1/3 Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2/3 Cup Boiling Water

To Make:

1. Combine all ingredients and whisk til thoroughly mixed.
2. Allow mixture to cool slightly, and while still warm, dip your cotton pads/balls in it until they are damp but not dripping wet.
3. Gently wipe the interior of your dog’s ears with the cotton pads, removing any build up.

Handy Tip: Take care not to push the cotton pad into the canal, as you do not want any fluid to drip down the canal into the inner ear – this can cause infections.

Have a fantastic Summer, dog moms and dads!

About the author: Serena Faber Nelson is a writer, television producer and dog lover. She is the creator of Pretty Fluffy, a blog where dedicated dog owners can find stylish products, modern advice, and inspiration for living with their pets. 

Find her on Instagram: @pretty_fluffy