There is no reason why you cannot cut her down shorter, or shave her (though I wouldn't go shorter than a 7 blade). There are arguements for both sides, with some saying the coat protects them from the heat, etc and so on..Personally, I SEE the difference in dogs that are cut down..going from lethargic and panting to running and playing. May not be scientifically "correct" behavior, but it happens. If you go as short as a 7, you will need to watch for sunburn for a few weeks, and as always, if its too hot for you to be outside running around, its too hot for the dog, hair or no hair.