Cooler weather is starting to creep in and you might even notice your pup’s fur isn’t shedding as much. As the temperatures begin to drop, your dog’s body has already sensed it and a winter coat is starting to grow in. This fur is thicker and more full, meant to keep dogs warm when the weather gets cold.
A thicker coat on the dog means more grooming for you, but don’t worry! There are plenty of ways you can decrease matting and keep your pooch’s coat healthy and shiny. Essential fall grooming tips and tricks are easy to accomplish and will prepare your dog for cooler weather.
Brush Daily
You should brush your dog’s coat daily, no matter the season, but it is especially important during the winter. Thick and fuller coats will get tangled as they shed, matting the fur on your dog or leaving hair all over your home. Pet hair remover gloves are easy to use and make brushing your dog incredibly easy. Simply put the glove on your hand and pet your dog as you normally do. The silicon brushes will pick up loose hairs and detangle as you pet.
Keep Nails Trimmed
You’re not spending as much time out on walks or at the dog park because of the cooler temperatures. Activities like this would naturally wear nails down, but due to less wear and tear, it seems like your pet’s nails grow faster in the winter. Not only should you trim your dog’s nails for hygienic purposes, but it will prevent slips on icy surfaces. While you’re at it, moisturize your dog’s paws. The cold weather can dry out their paw pads like your hands. Coconut oil is great to use on paw pads to keep them moisturized in the winter.
Ear Cleaning
Earwax and dirt builds up in your dog’s ears just like yours. Try to clean dogs ears before and after they go outside. This will prevent any dirt or bugs from tracking into your house from outside. When it is wet or snowy, it is also especially important to keep your dog’s ears as dry as possible. Lingering moisture can lead to an ear infection which neither you nor your pooch wants.
Bathe as Needed
Since your dog isn’t outside as much as he was during the summer, you can decrease the amount of baths. Frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from your dog’s fur, causing the skin to become dry and irritated. Wash your dog only when necessary during the cold winter months and use moisturizing dog shampoos, like ones made with oatmeal. Ensure your four-legged friend is completely dry before letting them back outside.
Check for Dry Skin
Dry skin plagues dogs in the winter time, too, due to the harsh conditions outside and the dry air from the heater. If your dog is itching a lot more than usual, dry skin is usually the culprit. The easiest way to moisturize your dog’s skin at home is with a humidifier in the area where your dog hangs out most. This adds moisture back into the air and will help prevent your dog’s skin from drying out.
Keep the Yard Clean
Dirt and grime from outside will get stuck to a dog’s fur, so when you maintain a clean yard, your dog won’t get as dirty. Mowing the lawn and picking up dog waste on a schedule is key. You can also consider switching to dog-friendly grass. Bermudagrass and Kentucky Bluegrass are some of the best ground cover for dogs because of durability and softness.
Sweaters for Small or Short-haired Dogs
Depending on the breed, a winter coat might not help as much on smaller dogs or short-haired pups. When venturing outside on cold days, be sure to bundle up your four-legged friend if their coat isn’t thick enough. Doggie sweaters and boots are not only fashionable but also protect your dog from the outside elements. Breeds that benefit from bundling up include Chihuahuas and Whippets due to their thin coats, and Basset Hounds and Dachshunds since their bodies are so low to the ground.
Understand Your Dog’s Coat
Just like humans, what works for one dog might not work for another. Know and understand the type of coat your dog has. The grooming tips for a Pomeranian are not the same as for an Italian Greyhound. The four basic dog coat types are “smooth,” “coarse,” “drop,” and “wire,” but this can change when you take into account factors like whether your dog has a single or double coat. If you are not sure what kind of coat your dog has, ask a professional groomer. They will be able to give you more grooming tips specific to your dog.
Adjusting your dog’s grooming habits slightly during the winter will ensure your dog stays comfortable in his skin and that his fur remains shiny and soft all season long. When you keep up with these grooming habits, you’ll also notice a decrease in shedding and a healthy coat year-round. Don’t be afraid to ask your vet for help when it comes to preparing your dog for the changing of the seasons.
Gina Thompson is an experienced multimedia journalist, producer, and content writer born and raised in Texas. In her spare time, she loves catching a live band, dancing, and finding the next big taco spot. As a writer, she is passionate about making a positive impact on her community by elevating the voices and stories that need to be heard.
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