If you elect to clip your dog in the summer, keep in mind that there is a risk of sunburn, if he spends much time in the sun. Bathing is only suggested on rare occasions, since frequent baths remove natural protective oils from the skin. If he is dirty, or shows evidence of fleas, a dog may be bathed in lukewarm water using mild shampoo. Rinse the soap thoroughly and towel dry. During grooming sessions, look for parasites which cause your pet discomfort.
Fleas are common, but can be controlled by commercial powders, sprays, collars, or dips.
Contact your veterinarian for recommended treatment or prevention with long-lasting topicals or oral products. Ticks may be removed by saturating with alcohol, and carefully pulling off with tweezers. Mites are too small to detect, but symptoms include frantic scratching, biting, and chewing. Your veterinarian can help diagnose mites. Eyes should be cleaned of any discharge with a soft cloth moistened with water or saline solution.