Dear Readers: Yes, it’s as hot as Hades, and you may look at your dog, in his fur coat, and feel for him. You might think, “Let’s shave you down.” But hold on. Only certain breeds of dogs should be shaved in the summer.

Many breeds have a double coat, and these dogs shed their undercoat to cool off. The topcoat protects them from sun, insects, pollen and dirt. Which breeds should never go near the clippers? Here’s a partial list: all terriers, German shepherds, huskies, golden retrievers, Labradors, King Charles spaniel, chows and Pomeranians. Brush these dogs gently but thoroughly a few times a month.

Talk to your veterinarian about which breeds of dogs can be shaved, and which should not. — Heloise

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: This is our pride and joy, Benny. He is a 2-year-old miniature long-haired dachshund. His favorite hobbies are riding on the golf cart and chasing squirrels up trees.

My husband and I are Elton John fans, so we named Benny after his hit song “Bennie and the Jets.” — Becky F., in Pass Christian, Miss.

Readers, would you like to see Benny and our other Pet Pals? Visit www.Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a funny and furry friend to share? Email a picture and description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

LEADER OF THE PACK

Dear Heloise: Why does your dog want to sleep next to you? Instinct, mostly. From birth, puppies cuddle with their littermates to create a comfortable feeling of warmth. When your dog sleeps next to you, it is trying to re-create that feeling.

Dogs derive comfort and safety from your presence; they want to sleep next to you. They want to show you that they love you and that they have accepted you as a member of the pack. — C.L. in Pennsylvania

PAINT PROJECT

Dear Heloise: To make a cool vase, I use a glass vase or jar from the dollar store. I mix acrylic paint with a pinch or two of baking soda.

This gives the paint a chalk-like consistency. And every brushstroke is visible. It looks like a high-end vase costing much more! — Alyssa W. in Florida

Alyssa, baking soda is a workhorse in the home and is safe for art projects, too! Nontoxic, safe, cheap and readily available, I keep boxes on hand. I’ve compiled a collection of my favorite baking soda hints, hacks, recipes and helps into a handy pamphlet.

Would you like to receive one? It’s easy. Visit www.Heloise.com to order, or send a long, stamped (75 cents) envelope along with $5 to: Heloise/Baking Soda, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Look for large boxes of baking soda in the laundry aisle for even more savings. — Heloise

FAN PAGE

Dear Heloise: I apply mascara in a three-stage process. First stage: I whisk the mascara on my lashes out toward my ear. Second stage: Wriggle the wand at the base of the lash, and then extend upward. Third stage: Inward, toward the nose. This will create a beautiful, wide-open, fanned and fresh look. — Terri E. in Ohio

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