Winter Grooming Guide: Protecting Your Dog in Cold Weather

Winter weather requires special attention to your dog’s grooming routine. From dry skin to icy paws, here’s how to keep your pup comfortable all winter long.

Winter Coat Care

Don’t Over-Bathe

• Bathing strips natural oils
• Oils protect against cold and dry air
• Bathe every 6-8 weeks maximum
• Use moisturizing shampoos

Keep Up the Brushing

• Removes dead coat
• Prevents mats (especially with sweaters)
• Distributes natural oils
• Improves insulation

Resist Shaving

• Dogs need their coats for warmth
• Undercoats provide crucial insulation
• Trim minimally if needed

Dry Skin Solutions

Winter often brings dry, flaky skin:

Causes

• Indoor heating
• Low humidity
• Cold, dry outdoor air
• Over-bathing

Solutions

• Use humidifiers in your home
• Apply pet-safe moisturizers
• Add omega fatty acids to diet
• Use moisturizing grooming products
• Reduce bathing frequency

Paw Winter Care

Dangers

• Ice and snow between toes
• Salt and chemical deicers
• Cracked, dry pads
• Frostbite

Protection

1. Trim paw fur to prevent ice balls
2. Apply paw wax before walks
3. Consider booties for long walks
4. Wipe paws immediately after walks
5. Check between toes for ice buildup

After Walks

Always wipe paws with a warm, damp cloth to remove:

• Salt (can burn pads and is toxic if licked)
• Chemical deicers
• Antifreeze (extremely toxic!)

Indoor Grooming Adjustments

Static Electricity

• Common in dry winter air
• Use conditioning sprays
• Consider a humidifier
• Use anti-static grooming tools

Mat Prevention

• Dogs wearing sweaters or coats mat more easily
• Brush before and after wearing clothing
• Check armpits and collar areas

Dogs That Need Extra Winter Care

Short-Coated Breeds

May need sweaters or coats:

• Chihuahuas
• Greyhounds
• Whippets
• French Bulldogs
• Dobermans

Small Dogs

• Closer to cold ground
• Lose body heat faster
• May need protection

Senior Dogs

• Less able to regulate temperature
• May have arthritis affected by cold
• Need extra warmth

Signs of Cold Weather Problems

Frostbite

• Pale, gray skin
• Hard or cold skin
• Pain when touched
• Commonly affects ears, tail, paws

Hypothermia

• Shivering
• Lethargy
• Weak pulse
• Difficulty walking

Seek immediate veterinary care for either condition.

Professional Winter Grooming

Don’t skip grooming in winter! Regular appointments help:

• Maintain coat health
• Check for dry skin issues
• Keep nails trimmed (less outdoor wear)
• Ensure paw health

Keep your pup cozy this winter! Book a grooming appointment.