As winter weather kicks up, you may be wondering if you still need to regularly bathe your dog. After all, they likely aren’t spending as much time running and playing outside due to the cold and shorter daylight hours, and you may be concerned about dry skin. But keeping up with your dog’s grooming routine is important, even during the winter months.
Change Up Their Bathing Schedule
Since your dog spends more time hanging out inside, you may want to consider increasing the length of time between full baths. When washing them, use a moisturizing shampoo or one that contains oatmeal to soothe dry skin and help it stay hydrated. Consider moving bath time to the morning so their fur can fully dry before temperatures drop at night. You can also help things along by towel drying as much as possible, or even using a hair dryer on a low setting.
If your dog has been outside in the snow or walking on salted sidewalks, it is a good idea to keep up with regularly cleaning their paws. You don’t want to leave salt or salt residue on the pads of their feet or between their toes. Have a warm, damp washcloth and a dry towel ready for when you come inside so you can immediately wipe off their paws. If your dog has sensitive skin, you may want to try using dog booties to provide more protection. Keep in mind that it can take your dog some time to get used to wearing them.
Brush Them Out
Keep up with daily or weekly brushing. This helps to stimulate healthy oil production to moisturize their skin, and it removes any mats or tangles that may have developed. A smooth, knot-free coat also serves as a good insulator against the cold. If your dog has thick fur, make sure you’re brushing down to their undercoat and not just the surface. Take your time on their belly and underarms where matting frequently occurs.
Check Their Paws
Regular walks outdoors on the concrete or macadam helps to naturally ground down your dog’s nails and keep them from getting too long. But when they’re walking on snow or not getting out as frequently, their nails don’t have as much opportunity to wear down. You may need to trim them yourself or take them to the groomer. Don’t forget to trim any long fur growing between their toes or the pads of their paws as well.
Adjust Their Diet
Keeping your dog hydrated can also help keep their skin hydrated, so make sure they are getting enough water to drink. Adding some warm water, chicken broth, or moist food to their dry kibble can help as well. If your dog struggles with dry, itchy skin, ask your veterinarian about adding fish oil or omega-3 fatty acids to their diet. This can support natural oil production in their skin and reduce dryness, improve joint health, and make their coat shinier.
Get Them Professionally Groomed
A professional groomer knows just how to care for your dog’s skin, coat, and nails, especially in the winter. Schedule an appointment at Lake Wylie Pet Resort to keep your dog looking and feeling its best. Don’t forget that you can combine grooming with their boarding as well so that they are bathed, trimmed, and clean before you take them home! Contact us today to learn more and reserve your dog’s next stay.