Winter Grooming Tips for Dogs: Coat, Paws and Skin Care
Winter is tough on dogs: cold, wet, salted paths and dry indoor air. Adjusting your grooming routine helps your dog stay warm and comfortable.
Keep the coat longer
A longer coat insulates better. Ask your groomer to leave extra length, particularly on the body and legs. Avoid close clips for dogs that spend time outdoors. Short-coated and hairless dogs need extra layers. See short-coat grooming and hairless dog care.
Brush regularly
Snow and wet weather cause matting, and heavy coats can hide dampness. Brush daily for long coats to remove snow, ice and debris. See how to prevent dog hair matting.
Dry thoroughly
Wet fur chills dogs and encourages skin problems. Towel dry after walks and use a dryer if needed. See how to dry a dog after a bath.
Protect the paws
Ice, snow and de-icers can crack and burn pads. Salt and chemicals can be toxic if licked.
- Wipe or rinse paws after every walk.
- Trim hair between pads to reduce ice balls. See how to trim hair between dog paw pads.
- Use boots or paw wax when conditions are harsh. See do dogs need paw balm or wax.
- Check for cracks. See how to treat dry, cracked dog paw pads.
See how to protect dog paws from road salt.
Dry skin
Heating dries the air, leading to flaky, itchy skin and static. Bathe less often, use a moisturizing shampoo and consider a humidifier. See how often to bathe a dog. Persistent itching may be allergies. See dog skin allergies.
Coats, jackets and boots
Short-coated, small, senior and thin dogs may need a jacket on cold days. Choose a well-fitting, waterproof coat and remove it indoors. Ensure it does not rub or mat the coat.
Nails
Nails may grow faster indoors on soft floors, so keep up with trims. See how often to trim dog nails.
Keep your dog warm and dry
Provide a warm bed away from drafts, and limit time outside in extreme cold. Watch for shivering, lethargy and cold ears, and bring your dog in.
Salt and chemicals
Antifreeze is highly toxic to dogs. Clean spills, store it safely and call your vet immediately if you suspect ingestion.
Winter groomer visits
Book regular appointments with a groomer to keep coats tidy and mat-free. Discuss longer cuts for winter. See how to choose a professional dog groomer.
Winter checklist
- Leave coats longer than in summer.
- Brush after wet or snowy walks.
- Wipe paws and belly after every outing.
- Trim paw hair and check for ice balls.
- Run a humidifier if the air indoors is very dry.
- Keep a spare towel and a coat by the door.
Bathing in winter
Reduce bathing frequency, since cold, dry air already tends to dry the skin. If a bath is needed, use a moisturizing shampoo and dry completely before going outside. Between baths, wipe muddy legs and bellies with a damp cloth.
Senior and small dogs
Older dogs, small dogs and thin-coated breeds lose heat faster and may struggle on slippery ground. Short walks, a warm coat, non-slip rugs indoors and a cozy bed help. Trim the hair on pads for grip and keep nails short so they can walk steadily.
The takeaway
Keep coats longer, protect paws, dry thoroughly and watch dry skin. A few simple habits keep dogs cozy all winter.
Frequently asked questions
Should I clip my dog shorter in winter?
Usually not. A longer coat gives more insulation.
How often should I bathe in winter?
Less often, since cold weather and dry air can dry skin.
Do dogs need coats?
Short-coated, small, elderly and thin dogs often do.
How do I protect paws from salt?
Wipe or rinse after walks and consider boots.