Comments on: Max the Golden Retriever Summer Cut Before and After http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/ Keep on Wagging! Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:28:10 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 By: Kirsten http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3569 Kirsten Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:28:10 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3569 The people who are against shaving don't given any specific reasons. For example, "Goldens have their hair for a reason." Goldens originated in Scotland where summer temperatures are much lower than in most of the US: their double coats are necessary for insulation and bouyancy there. For those of us who don't show our dogs, the coat doesn't need to be perfect and it seems as if there are significant benefits to it. As for "the integrity of the breed" that is something that applies to poor breeding more than to haircuts. We're not talking about altering the entire breed! Let's go out there and close the backyard breeders and puppy mills to help maintain the integrity of the breed. Our boy (whom we adopted at 6 months) never had a chance at a nice coat since he was backyard bred by people who wanted to make a few bucks from their genetically inferior pets. We love him, he's a great dog and people who meet him think he's beautiful. His personality is exceptional! Our 1 y.o. Golden is miserable in warm weather and will be getting a short cut this summer so he can continue to exercise and play in the heat. I've had many dogs of different breeds in my 52 years and have never had one that suffered from the warm weather like this. How "selfish and cruel" is it to want your dog to be comfotable so he can enjoy every day????? The people who are against shaving don’t given any specific reasons. For example, “Goldens have their hair for a reason.” Goldens originated in Scotland where summer temperatures are much lower than in most of the US: their double coats are necessary for insulation and bouyancy there. For those of us who don’t show our dogs, the coat doesn’t need to be perfect and it seems as if there are significant benefits to it. As for “the integrity of the breed” that is something that applies to poor breeding more than to haircuts. We’re not talking about altering the entire breed! Let’s go out there and close the backyard breeders and puppy mills to help maintain the integrity of the breed. Our boy (whom we adopted at 6 months) never had a chance at a nice coat since he was backyard bred by people who wanted to make a few bucks from their genetically inferior pets. We love him, he’s a great dog and people who meet him think he’s beautiful. His personality is exceptional!
Our 1 y.o. Golden is miserable in warm weather and will be getting a short cut this summer so he can continue to exercise and play in the heat. I’ve had many dogs of different breeds in my 52 years and have never had one that suffered from the warm weather like this. How “selfish and cruel” is it to want your dog to be comfotable so he can enjoy every day?????

]]> By: Krissy Pelkey http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3568 Krissy Pelkey Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:01:06 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3568 Interesting, my husband is always saying he's going to give Harpo, my golden a summer cut! I said don't touch him! I give harpo a little pool. See, he likes to dig a cooling hole and lay in it...Ahhh dogs will be dogs. But, I want my golden to look like a golden! And, I know, we want them to be cool, as well and feel good. I will consider this, your dog looks nice Take care, thanks for posting Krissy Interesting, my husband is always saying he’s going to give Harpo, my golden a summer cut! I said don’t touch him! I give harpo a little pool. See, he likes to dig a cooling hole and lay in it…Ahhh dogs will be dogs. But, I want my golden to look like a golden!
And, I know, we want them to be cool, as well and feel good.
I will consider this, your dog looks nice

Take care, thanks for posting

Krissy

]]> By: Alexander "The Great" http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3449 Alexander "The Great" Sat, 21 Apr 2012 18:43:46 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3449 Max: Woof up? I'm nine and have been getting summer cuts for like the last 5 years and LOVE it! The first time was strange, but just showed my human that it is a personal choice and this is for me! Not only do I have more energy but I also stay much cleaner and dry much faster, I get the human dude to take me to the beach all the time. Never had a problem with it growing back weird either. Too those that say, the dog's embarrassed, try checking out hot spots sometime? Glad those went away. The human takes me out to the sun deck and I have a blast while he's doing the shaving. Man, I love that sun deck. Just got to get the human to stop cleaning that glass door. Tried to show him a thousand time, I leave those nose prints there for a reason. That thing HURTS when you run into it. Peace out Alex P.S. I hit the SC beaches alot too. Smell you up next time I call the human for a road trip. Max:

Woof up? I’m nine and have been getting summer cuts for like the last 5 years and LOVE it! The first time was strange, but just showed my human that it is a personal choice and this is for me! Not only do I have more energy but I also stay much cleaner and dry much faster, I get the human dude to take me to the beach all the time. Never had a problem with it growing back weird either. Too those that say, the dog’s embarrassed, try checking out hot spots sometime? Glad those went away.

The human takes me out to the sun deck and I have a blast while he’s doing the shaving. Man, I love that sun deck. Just got to get the human to stop cleaning that glass door. Tried to show him a thousand time, I leave those nose prints there for a reason. That thing HURTS when you run into it.

Peace out
Alex

P.S. I hit the SC beaches alot too. Smell you up next time I call the human for a road trip.

]]> By: Renee http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3190 Renee Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:19:23 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3190 We have always had our Holden's shaved for the summer. They love it! They dry fast on those humid days....no stink....easier to find ticks....less shedding....so much cooler....and reduced our goldenseal allergies! Daisy has severe allergies to trees, grass and moss. This reduces the amount in her fur. The hair grows back exactly like it was before. Highly recommend it. We have always had our Holden’s shaved for the summer. They love it! They dry fast on those humid days….no stink….easier to find ticks….less shedding….so much cooler….and reduced our goldenseal allergies! Daisy has severe allergies to trees, grass and moss. This reduces the amount in her fur. The hair grows back exactly like it was before. Highly recommend it.

]]> By: Kris http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3188 Kris Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:35:34 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3188 I think this is a matter of opinion for all owners. However, Carmelita can keep her negative comments to herself since it is the discretion of the owner and there is no wrong option. Some do, some don't. If they choose to do so, that doesn't mean they should have gotten labs. I think this is a matter of opinion for all owners. However, Carmelita can keep her negative comments to herself since it is the discretion of the owner and there is no wrong option. Some do, some don’t. If they choose to do so, that doesn’t mean they should have gotten labs.

]]> By: Kelly http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3187 Kelly Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:27:10 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3187 I just received your message and was quite taken aback that you would ridicule those golden retriever owners that shave dogs when it is not for OUR benefit but for the DOGS. I too have had golden retrievers my entire life, and I have been told by more than a couple of Veterinarians, groomers, pet stores, etc. that it is VERY good for their coat, it cools them off in the summertime, they have far less itching problems, and far less incidences of fleas and being able to leave their eggs, thus causing more fleas. Not to mention it is very good for their coat since long haired dogs create a build up of dirt and natural emollients that even baths can't get out. They grow their coats back in THREE months. So, the other nine months of the year they and I get to enjoy their coat having grown back evenly. Perhaps I will stick with my Golden's since I (ME) know what makes THEM happy.... I just received your message and was quite taken aback that you would ridicule those golden retriever owners that shave dogs when it is not for OUR benefit but for the DOGS. I too have had golden retrievers my entire life, and I have been told by more than a couple of Veterinarians, groomers, pet stores, etc. that it is VERY good for their coat, it cools them off in the summertime, they have far less itching problems, and far less incidences of fleas and being able to leave their eggs, thus causing more fleas. Not to mention it is very good for their coat since long haired dogs create a build up of dirt and natural emollients that even baths can’t get out. They grow their coats back in THREE months. So, the other nine months of the year they and I get to enjoy their coat having grown back evenly. Perhaps I will stick with my Golden’s since I (ME) know what makes THEM happy….

]]> By: Carmelita http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3185 Carmelita Wed, 04 Apr 2012 22:47:58 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3185 I find it very disappointing that this website is encouraging shaving golden retrievers. We, as golden retriever owners are responsible for preserving the integrity of the breed. That does not mean shaving the protective coat just to appease us humans. I would recommend that anyone who is thinking of getting a golden take into consideration their coat type. If they do not want to keep up with a long coat, perhaps they should consider a lab instead. I find it very disappointing that this website is encouraging shaving golden retrievers. We, as golden retriever owners are responsible for preserving the integrity of the breed. That does not mean shaving the protective coat just to appease us humans. I would recommend that anyone who is thinking of getting a golden take into consideration their coat type. If they do not want to keep up with a long coat, perhaps they should consider a lab instead.

]]> By: Kelly http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3110 Kelly Sun, 25 Mar 2012 17:45:57 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3110 All 3 of my Golden Retrievers get shaved every April/May and they ALL grow their back evenly and beautifully. It does help with their coat growth and getting rid of the build up in hair (as even humans get if we didn't wash but once a month). They love it when they get shaved because they have far less itching and scratching, they don't sweat, and thus stink, and they appear happier because of all this. For our benefit as owners, they hardly shed AT ALL. If they do, it is short hairs and not nearly as visible, and fewer and farther between. Therefore, during the winter times when I have to vacuum at least twice a week, in the summertime I only have to vacuum once a week (and this is because I do anyway). They also require less baths and when you do bathe them, it's much, much, much easier and they do dry faster! So, with all of this being said, it is much better for everyone; the dogs and the owners. I've been shaving them every year for the last 7 years, for 1 of them, and the last 2 years for the other 2 and they couldn't be happier. And, so am I! Kelly All 3 of my Golden Retrievers get shaved every April/May and they ALL grow their back evenly and beautifully. It does help with their coat growth and getting rid of the build up in hair (as even humans get if we didn’t wash but once a month). They love it when they get shaved because they have far less itching and scratching, they don’t sweat, and thus stink, and they appear happier because of all this. For our benefit as owners, they hardly shed AT ALL. If they do, it is short hairs and not nearly as visible, and fewer and farther between. Therefore, during the winter times when I have to vacuum at least twice a week, in the summertime I only have to vacuum once a week (and this is because I do anyway). They also require less baths and when you do bathe them, it’s much, much, much easier and they do dry faster!
So, with all of this being said, it is much better for everyone; the dogs and the owners. I’ve been shaving them every year for the last 7 years, for 1 of them, and the last 2 years for the other 2 and they couldn’t be happier. And, so am I!

Kelly

]]> By: Golden Boy http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-3105 Golden Boy Sat, 24 Mar 2012 13:42:13 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-3105 Hi, I'm a 7 year old Golden and had my 1st summer cut last year. I was adopted from a provious home and had some minor matted fur. My mom decided it was better to have a shave and bath rather than deal with the knotted fur. I'm so glad she did! We requested the groomer leave at least 1 inch of fur to prevent sunburn. They did a great job. After a bath and cut, my undercoat was brushed out and it removed SOOO much dead hair that my coat was a fraction of its original thickness. I have been more playful and pant less in the hot summer months. Plus, I dry quickly, which has greatly helped my chronic skin problems and hot spots. My brother (a lab) also has severe allergies. He was allergy tested and it showed he is actually allergic to dust mites and dog dander. The vet recommended being extra viligant about vacuuming and keeping dog hair out of the house. My summer cut has helped because I don't shed as much now. So yes, an uncut golden is a beautiful sight, but sometimes a summer cut is best for everyone. It has helped both myself to stay cooler and free of hot spots, and has helped reduce the allergies in the house. My vet said it is perfectly fine and actually helps many dogs feel better and healthier. My mom is going to try to do the cut herself with clippers this summer. Hi, I’m a 7 year old Golden and had my 1st summer cut last year. I was adopted from a provious home and had some minor matted fur. My mom decided it was better to have a shave and bath rather than deal with the knotted fur. I’m so glad she did! We requested the groomer leave at least 1 inch of fur to prevent sunburn. They did a great job. After a bath and cut, my undercoat was brushed out and it removed SOOO much dead hair that my coat was a fraction of its original thickness. I have been more playful and pant less in the hot summer months. Plus, I dry quickly, which has greatly helped my chronic skin problems and hot spots.
My brother (a lab) also has severe allergies. He was allergy tested and it showed he is actually allergic to dust mites and dog dander. The vet recommended being extra viligant about vacuuming and keeping dog hair out of the house. My summer cut has helped because I don’t shed as much now.
So yes, an uncut golden is a beautiful sight, but sometimes a summer cut is best for everyone. It has helped both myself to stay cooler and free of hot spots, and has helped reduce the allergies in the house. My vet said it is perfectly fine and actually helps many dogs feel better and healthier. My mom is going to try to do the cut herself with clippers this summer.

]]> By: Amber http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2866 Amber Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:13:31 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2866 People keep saying if they wanted a dog that looked shaved they would have gotten a lab, and that a coat makes a golden. Well I have a Golden and I believe a temperament makes a Golden, not looks. Her fur is annoying all aver my house though, so I will probably shave her soon. People keep saying if they wanted a dog that looked shaved they would have gotten a lab, and that a coat makes a golden. Well I have a Golden and I believe a temperament makes a Golden, not looks. Her fur is annoying all aver my house though, so I will probably shave her soon.

]]> By: Sharlyn http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2816 Sharlyn Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:56:11 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2816 We always get our Golden Retriever, Sailor, shaved too. Living in Florida can be pretty miserable for him during the warmer months. I always know it's time when he wakes up panting before any exercise or his morning outing. We've had a "warm" winter and am thinking about giving him his cut a little early as he's waking up panting already. He's still a handsome boy with his golden locks or not :) We always get our Golden Retriever, Sailor, shaved too. Living in Florida can be pretty miserable for him during the warmer months. I always know it’s time when he wakes up panting before any exercise or his morning outing. We’ve had a “warm” winter and am thinking about giving him his cut a little early as he’s waking up panting already. He’s still a handsome boy with his golden locks or not :)

]]> By: Marilia http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2767 Marilia Sat, 12 Nov 2011 11:51:26 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2767 I always had labradors and now I have 2 very furry golden retrievers. Since I live in the South of Brazil, where summers are long and hot (and winters can get quite chilly), we decided to summer-trim them exactly as Max did. The dogs seem to love it, less panting and much more frolic and playing. It is easier on us too, after they get wet. We have been doing it for 3 years now and the coat always grow back even and fully in winter. They do look funny and not so pretty but, I can attest, much happier and relieved. We cut the fur 2 centimeters high, like a lab. It does grow back quite quickly. No matter what some people might say, they DO seem relieved and happy. I always had labradors and now I have 2 very furry golden retrievers. Since I live in the South of Brazil, where summers are long and hot (and winters can get quite chilly), we decided to summer-trim them exactly as Max did. The dogs seem to love it, less panting and much more frolic and playing. It is easier on us too, after they get wet. We have been doing it for 3 years now and the coat always grow back even and fully in winter. They do look funny and not so pretty but, I can attest, much happier and relieved. We cut the fur 2 centimeters high, like a lab. It does grow back quite quickly. No matter what some people might say, they DO seem relieved and happy.

]]> By: Dogman http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2645 Dogman Thu, 08 Sep 2011 20:20:46 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2645 To all the folks shaving their Goldens: Does the word anthropomorphic mean anything to you? Perhaps, after you learn about your breed of dog and what the coat is there for, you take 1 minute to google search the word so you will have a better understanding...sheesh! To all the folks shaving their Goldens: Does the word anthropomorphic mean anything to you? Perhaps, after you learn about your breed of dog and what the coat is there for, you take 1 minute to google search the word so you will have a better understanding…sheesh!

]]> By: Jake http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2642 Jake Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:03:41 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2642 Today was a heck of a day! I was taken to the groomers for my first 'summer cut' which my owners 'thought' was just a short hair cut. Short doesn't begin to describe it! Here I was prancing & dancing - as all happy dogs do - and they were in shock! After reading all the posts they now feel much better knowing it will grow back, but in the meantime, I had a GREAT time twice on the beach today and dried out in record time. Since we live on the beach that's a good thing. But, in the future I think I'll keep enough hair on to still be 'golden' instead of white, lol. Today was a heck of a day! I was taken to the groomers for my first ‘summer cut’ which my owners ‘thought’ was just a short hair cut. Short doesn’t begin to describe it! Here I was prancing & dancing – as all happy dogs do – and they were in shock! After reading all the posts they now feel much better knowing it will grow back, but in the meantime, I had a GREAT time twice on the beach today and dried out in record time. Since we live on the beach that’s a good thing. But, in the future I think I’ll keep enough hair on to still be ‘golden’ instead of white, lol.

]]> By: Mary http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2534 Mary Sat, 06 Aug 2011 02:07:15 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2534 Lisa, why do you say the double coated breeds should never be shaves. It has been >98 degrees for weeks now (NW Fl) and I was considering doing that next spring. Even though I brush nightly, the long hair is too plentiful. One comment was to shave the chest and belly...that little bit may help. Would like to hear from you about this question. Lisa, why do you say the double coated breeds should never be shaves. It has been >98 degrees for weeks now (NW Fl) and I was considering doing that next spring. Even though I brush nightly, the long hair is too plentiful. One comment was to shave the chest and belly…that little bit may help. Would like to hear from you about this question.

]]> By: Lisa http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2524 Lisa Sun, 31 Jul 2011 16:55:01 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2524 Golden Retrievers and other double coated breeds should NEVER be shaved. It's doing a major disservice to the dog. Any groomer should know this and if a reputable one, should refuse to shave the down down. Golden Retrievers and other double coated breeds should NEVER be shaved. It’s doing a major disservice to the dog. Any groomer should know this and if a reputable one, should refuse to shave the down down.

]]> By: GoldenGirl284 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2519 GoldenGirl284 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 19:11:32 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2519 We had debated this very same thing. Everyone telling us they have their coat for a reason. Both of my Goldens (Sophie a True Golden in Color and Cooper a Red head like Max) both have skin allergies. We're constantly fighting the Hot Spots during the warmer months. They usually go part of the summer with a nice bald spot. So why not cut it all off?? They Both go in Next week for their very first Summer Cut! Seeing Max's picture gave me a great visual as to how Cooper will look! We had debated this very same thing. Everyone telling us they have their coat for a reason. Both of my Goldens (Sophie a True Golden in Color and Cooper a Red head like Max) both have skin allergies. We’re constantly fighting the Hot Spots during the warmer months. They usually go part of the summer with a nice bald spot. So why not cut it all off?? They Both go in Next week for their very first Summer Cut! Seeing Max’s picture gave me a great visual as to how Cooper will look!

]]> By: Cali's Mom http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2516 Cali's Mom Tue, 26 Jul 2011 20:06:00 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2516 This was very helpful! We have a nine month old son who is all over the floor and every time I see him clap his hands I cringe at the 5 inch hairs sticking to them . . .and I mop and sweep every other day!! I can't keep up! I'm constantly washing the poor kid's hands. He's going to have dish-pan hands by the time he's one! So this Friday, after a lot of consideration and a TON of guilty feelings, we are going to shave our muffin (I know, that sounds funny). Thank you for your blog, I found it very cute and comforting that we are making the right decision. :) This was very helpful! We have a nine month old son who is all over the floor and every time I see him clap his hands I cringe at the 5 inch hairs sticking to them . . .and I mop and sweep every other day!! I can’t keep up! I’m constantly washing the poor kid’s hands. He’s going to have dish-pan hands by the time he’s one! So this Friday, after a lot of consideration and a TON of guilty feelings, we are going to shave our muffin (I know, that sounds funny). Thank you for your blog, I found it very cute and comforting that we are making the right decision. :)

]]> By: One Sok http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2481 One Sok Fri, 08 Jul 2011 05:13:24 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2481 Hi Max! So glad to see your photo's and see you're looking good! My owners' brother is considering shaving a little off of his Golden 'Rudy', to keep him cool this summer. They run & swim alot, year-round, and Mr. Rudy isn't liking the exceptional heat of this summer in MN. My owner is doing research to provide Rudy with an acceptable summer-cut and your site has been the most informative yet! I need to address Winston Stordahl's post regarding his allergies too. I had really bad allergies too (I'm a Border Collie x Livestock Guard Dog) and my owner was really patient in dealing with all of my itchies etc. It took two years, but she found that using a shampoo made by Virbac, specifically designed to assist my skin in healing and changing my diet to a lamb/rice or salmon/rice (my favorite) took care of all of those nasty itches! We also went to see Dr. Deb, DVM and had my blood tested and found I was hypothyroid (whatever that is...). Winston, you gotta TELL your owner to take you to the vet & have those itchy feet checked out. I know, I know...some of us REALLY hate the vet, but it'll do you some good. The vet can recommend the right shampoo (instead of oatmeal - which might be drying your skin too much because of the other additives) and maybe a change in diet to get rid of those itchy feet, once and for all! Good luck Winston! Max, thanks so much for posting your photos and the replies you received. Those naysayers have a right to their opinion, as do we all. You're the best Max! Wags & slobbers, Sok Hi Max!

So glad to see your photo’s and see you’re looking good! My owners’ brother is considering shaving a little off of his Golden ‘Rudy’, to keep him cool this summer. They run & swim alot, year-round, and Mr. Rudy isn’t liking the exceptional heat of this summer in MN. My owner is doing research to provide Rudy with an acceptable summer-cut and your site has been the most informative yet!

I need to address Winston Stordahl’s post regarding his allergies too.

I had really bad allergies too (I’m a Border Collie x Livestock Guard Dog) and my owner was really patient in dealing with all of my itchies etc. It took two years, but she found that using a shampoo made by Virbac, specifically designed to assist my skin in healing and changing my diet to a lamb/rice or salmon/rice (my favorite) took care of all of those nasty itches! We also went to see Dr. Deb, DVM and had my blood tested and found I was hypothyroid (whatever that is…).

Winston, you gotta TELL your owner to take you to the vet & have those itchy feet checked out. I know, I know…some of us REALLY hate the vet, but it’ll do you some good. The vet can recommend the right shampoo (instead of oatmeal – which might be drying your skin too much because of the other additives) and maybe a change in diet to get rid of those itchy feet, once and for all! Good luck Winston!

Max, thanks so much for posting your photos and the replies you received. Those naysayers have a right to their opinion, as do we all. You’re the best Max!

Wags & slobbers,
Sok

]]> By: Rhonda http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2479 Rhonda Sat, 02 Jul 2011 16:14:27 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2479 I thought it over and weighed the pros and cons also about shaving my golden. The pros won out and she was given a teddy bear cut. You could see right away that she was more playful and more comfortable. She could only play in short spurts and spent more time trying to stay cool by laying around with that full beautiful coat. She plays freely now and has lost weight and trimmed her figure up. These dogs were bred for the colder climate and we just dont live in that and we made a decision to shave her. Yes she doesnt have that beautiful fur coat but what she does have is a happier life. I will do it yearly every summer. I thought it over and weighed the pros and cons also about shaving my golden. The pros won out and she was given a teddy bear cut. You could see right away that she was more playful and more comfortable. She could only play in short spurts and spent more time trying to stay cool by laying around with that full beautiful coat. She plays freely now and has lost weight and trimmed her figure up. These dogs were bred for the colder climate and we just dont live in that and we made a decision to shave her. Yes she doesnt have that beautiful fur coat but what she does have is a happier life. I will do it yearly every summer.

]]> By: karen http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2477 karen Tue, 28 Jun 2011 04:39:44 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2477 P.S. My dog Honey is a 10 year old golden with skin allergies from day 1. I have finally ended up using: Temaril P once a day or once every other day depending on the itching, plus Amiltriptyline 75 mg. once a day. Also she is borderline hypothyroid, so she takes Soloxine 1 and 1/2 tab. per day. Also I keep the air conditioning on when it is humid and hot as she is miserable. she is most comfortable in the winter. I have tried cortisone shots also in the past but they are temporary. (To Winston Stordahl) P.S. My dog Honey is a 10 year old golden with skin allergies from day 1. I have finally ended up using: Temaril P once a day or once every other day depending on the itching, plus Amiltriptyline 75 mg. once a day. Also she is borderline hypothyroid, so she takes Soloxine 1 and 1/2 tab. per day. Also I keep the air conditioning on when it is humid and hot as she is miserable. she is most comfortable in the winter. I have
tried cortisone shots also in the past but they are temporary.

(To Winston Stordahl)

]]> By: karen http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2476 karen Tue, 28 Jun 2011 04:30:28 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2476 Matty, First of all, dogs do not need to be shaved all the way to the skin! Get the longest "summer cut" available. Secondly, it is the owners responsibility to keep the shaved dog out of the sun to avoid sunburn. Therefore, if the dog gets a sunburn, needs an antibiotic, etc. and all the pain etc. is the owners responsibility. Its just common sense! Matty,

First of all, dogs do not need to be shaved all the way to the skin! Get the longest
“summer cut” available. Secondly, it is the owners responsibility to keep the shaved
dog out of the sun to avoid sunburn. Therefore, if the dog gets a sunburn, needs an
antibiotic, etc. and all the pain etc. is the owners responsibility. Its just common
sense!

]]> By: Winston Stordahl http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2473 Winston Stordahl Fri, 24 Jun 2011 07:20:34 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2473 I am a6 year old golden who has had chronic itchies, allergies, and the biggest pain in the but feet eating disorder. I hear "Winston--NO FEET!" many many times a day. Sometimes all I have to hear is my mom yell to my Dad...Winston is eating his feet again...I stop when I hear her calls dads name....funny isnt it I had these chonic symptoms since the day I walked in this house. THousands have been spent trying to figure out causes and solutions. Shots, pills, savs, ointments, sprays, and yes...1/2 my life spent in socks! WEll I am REEEEEELY uncomfortable right now. I am nervous, whing and barking. Started a few days ago when it got up to 96 degrees. My mom gives me wonderful oatmeal shampoos, with leave in vets best. ANyway. my mom is at her wits end and is seriously researching shaving me down...just a bit. I am looking just miserable and she is at her witz ends roght now. SHe too has heard the things in the posts above, but is seriously considering it now...just to give me some relief. SH hurts for me and doesnt know what else to do. I am a6 year old golden who has had chronic itchies, allergies, and the biggest pain in the but feet eating disorder. I hear “Winston–NO FEET!” many many times a day. Sometimes all I have to hear is my mom yell to my Dad…Winston is eating his feet again…I stop when I hear her calls dads name….funny isnt it
I had these chonic symptoms since the day I walked in this house. THousands have been spent trying to figure out causes and solutions. Shots, pills, savs, ointments, sprays, and yes…1/2 my life spent in socks!
WEll I am REEEEEELY uncomfortable right now. I am nervous, whing and barking. Started a few days ago when it got up to 96 degrees.
My mom gives me wonderful oatmeal shampoos, with leave in vets best.
ANyway. my mom is at her wits end and is seriously researching shaving me down…just a bit. I am looking just miserable and she is at her witz ends roght now. SHe too has heard the things in the posts above, but is seriously considering it now…just to give me some relief. SH hurts for me and doesnt know what else to do.

]]> By: Wheatie http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2472 Wheatie Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:28:59 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2472 Hey folks, relax! Its just a haircut. My gorgeous golden is 13, and about two years ago, the heat was really just too much for her. She was lethargic and slow and wouldn't even walk the 1/4 mile down to the ocean in our new england town. So I took her to the groomers and requested a "puppy cut." I wasn't sure what I would get, but it was a pretty close shave. And suddenly, my 11 year old dog looked like a pup and her energy level soared. (And its a blast to run your hand over her fur, like a flat top for dogs). So now, every summer she gets a shave and swims and runs and is loving the new england summers again- with many complements. By the end of September, she is back to her usual gorgeous hairy self. Best part of her summer haircut is that she just doesn't smell nearly as awful after an afternoon in the ocean. Bonus! For those who preach nature's way, I guess you could say the same about us. and we get haircuts all the time. Never mind shaving those annoying beards every single day. So calm down and think of your fabulous golden. If you think they might be happier in the heat with less fur, and you might be happier in your home or car with less fur, go for it. I can honestly say, my dog has never indicated in any form that her summer haircut is undesireable. and we have never experienced any sunburn; and this dog spends hours outside. Hey folks, relax! Its just a haircut. My gorgeous golden is 13, and about two years ago, the heat was really just too much for her. She was lethargic and slow and wouldn’t even walk the 1/4 mile down to the ocean in our new england town. So I took her to the groomers and requested a “puppy cut.” I wasn’t sure what I would get, but it was a pretty close shave. And suddenly, my 11 year old dog looked like a pup and her energy level soared. (And its a blast to run your hand over her fur, like a flat top for dogs). So now, every summer she gets a shave and swims and runs and is loving the new england summers again- with many complements. By the end of September, she is back to her usual gorgeous hairy self. Best part of her summer haircut is that she just doesn’t smell nearly as awful after an afternoon in the ocean. Bonus!

For those who preach nature’s way, I guess you could say the same about us. and we get haircuts all the time. Never mind shaving those annoying beards every single day. So calm down and think of your fabulous golden. If you think they might be happier in the heat with less fur, and you might be happier in your home or car with less fur, go for it. I can honestly say, my dog has never indicated in any form that her summer
haircut is undesireable. and we have never experienced any sunburn; and this dog spends hours outside.

]]> By: Lisa http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/2008/08/11/max-the-golden-retriever-summer-cut-before-and-after/comment-page-2/#comment-2463 Lisa Wed, 15 Jun 2011 02:03:58 +0000 http://maxthegoldenretriever.com/?p=126#comment-2463 My family was blessed with a beautiful golden named Lacey. I did my own grooming and shaved her with a number five clipper guard about every four months. She loved it! She would get so excited when it was time to get her hair cut she would try to jump on the table I groomed her on. After the haircuts she always prances around so proud of herself and feeling good. Her hair always grew out beautifully just like it would have looked had she never been cut. We preferred it short for the sake of her and our house being cleaner. If I felt it was unhealthy for her in any way I would not have continued to keep it short but it was definitely the best choice for her and our family. We are considering getting another golden. Lacey passed on to doggie heaven two years ago. If it makes our new golden happy and healthy I will keep him or her short too. My family was blessed with a beautiful golden named Lacey. I did my own grooming and shaved her with a number five clipper guard about every four months. She loved it! She would get so excited when it was time to get her hair cut she would try to jump on the table I groomed her on. After the haircuts she always prances around so proud of herself and feeling good. Her hair always grew out beautifully just like it would have looked had she never been cut. We preferred it short for the sake of her and our house being cleaner. If I felt it was unhealthy for her in any way I would not have continued to keep it short but it was definitely the best choice for her and our family. We are considering getting another golden. Lacey passed on to doggie heaven two years ago. If it makes our new golden happy and healthy I will keep him or her short too.

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