The British winter brings rain, mud, ice, frost and the occasional bitter cold snap. While many dogs love bounding through puddles and rolling in wet grass, the winter months can take a real toll on their coat, skin and paws if we are not careful. As dog owners, there are plenty of practical steps we can take to keep our four-legged friends safe, comfortable and in good health throughout the season. Here are our top winter care tips from the grooming salon.
Protecting Your Dog's Paws
Paws take the biggest hit during winter. Cold, wet ground, frost, ice, grit and road salt can all cause problems.
- Check paws after every walk — Get into the habit of inspecting your dog's paws when you get home. Look for cracks, cuts, redness or anything lodged between the pads.
- Rinse off salt and grit — Road salt and de-icing products can irritate your dog's paw pads and are toxic if licked. Give the paws a quick rinse with warm water after walks along gritted roads and pavements.
- Keep the fur trimmed between pads — Long fur between the toes can collect ice balls, mud and grit, causing discomfort and even small injuries. Regular trimming of the paw pads helps prevent this. This is something we do as part of every full groom.
- Consider a paw balm — A thin layer of a natural paw balm before walks can help protect against drying and cracking. Coconut oil works well as a simple, natural alternative.
- Dog boots — Some dogs tolerate boots well, and they provide excellent protection against salt, ice and cold. They take a bit of getting used to, but many dogs adapt quickly.
Coat Care in Winter
Your dog's coat is their first line of defence against the cold and wet, so keeping it in good condition during winter is particularly important.
- Do not skip grooming appointments — It can be tempting to let your dog's coat grow longer in winter for extra warmth, but an overgrown, matted coat actually provides less insulation than a well-maintained one. Mats trap moisture against the skin, which can lead to irritation and even infection. Regular grooming keeps the coat clean, dry and properly insulating.
- Dry your dog thoroughly after walks — Allowing your dog to air dry after a wet walk can leave them chilly and uncomfortable. Give them a good rub down with a towel, paying particular attention to the ears, underbelly and between the toes. If your dog has a longer coat, a quick blast with a hairdryer on a low, cool setting can help.
- Brush more frequently — Wet, muddy conditions can cause tangles and mats to form more quickly than usual. Increase your brushing routine during winter to keep on top of any knots before they become a problem.
- Watch for dry skin — Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dry skin in winter. Central heating, cold winds and frequent bathing can all strip moisture from the skin and coat. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual or if their skin looks flaky, mention it at your next grooming appointment. We use gentle, moisturising shampoos that can help soothe dry skin.
Should Your Dog Wear a Coat?
Whether or not your dog needs a coat in winter depends on their breed, size, age and coat type. As a general guide:
- Dogs that benefit from a coat: Small breeds (Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Whippets), elderly dogs, puppies, short-coated breeds (Greyhounds, Staffies) and dogs that have been clipped short recently.
- Dogs that usually do not need one: Double-coated breeds (Huskies, Collies, Retrievers), large breeds with thick coats and generally fit, healthy adult dogs with full coats.
If in doubt, watch your dog's behaviour. If they seem reluctant to go outside, shiver during walks or try to get home quickly, a warm, waterproof coat might make a real difference to their comfort.
Adjusting Walk Routines
Winter does not mean your dog should get less exercise, but you may need to adjust your routine:
- Walk during daylight — With shorter days, try to fit in at least one walk during daylight hours. If you must walk in the dark, use reflective gear and a light-up collar or lead so both you and your dog are visible to traffic.
- Watch for ice — Icy paths are slippery for dogs as well as humans. Older dogs and those with joint problems are particularly at risk. Stick to gritted paths where possible and avoid walking on frozen ponds or rivers, no matter how solid they look.
- Shorter but more frequent walks — In very cold or wet weather, two shorter walks may be better than one long one, especially for smaller or older dogs.
- Mental stimulation indoors — On days when the weather is truly foul, puzzle toys, training games and hide-and-seek with treats can help burn off energy and keep your dog mentally stimulated.
Antifreeze: A Hidden Danger
Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is extremely toxic to dogs, and unfortunately it has a sweet taste that can attract them. Even a small amount can be fatal. During winter, antifreeze is commonly used in cars and sometimes spills on driveways and roads. Keep your own antifreeze securely stored, clean up any spills immediately and keep a close eye on your dog during walks in areas where cars are parked. If you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze, contact your vet immediately — prompt treatment is critical.
Feeding and Hydration
Some dogs burn more calories in winter simply to keep warm, especially those that spend a lot of time outdoors. If your dog seems hungrier than usual, a small increase in their food portion may be appropriate — but be careful not to overdo it, as reduced exercise during bad weather can lead to weight gain. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water. If their outdoor water bowl freezes, check it regularly and top it up with liquid water.
Keep Up with Grooming Through Winter
Winter is not the time to let grooming standards slip. In fact, regular professional grooming is arguably more important during the colder months than at any other time of year. A clean, well-maintained coat insulates more effectively, and regular salon visits give us the chance to check your dog's skin, paws and overall condition.
At Honourable Dog Grooming, we see plenty of wet, muddy, slightly bedraggled dogs during winter — and we love transforming them into clean, fluffy, gorgeous-smelling companions. If your dog is due a groom or you would like to discuss their winter coat care, please get in touch. We are always happy to help.
"A good winter grooming routine keeps your dog warm, comfortable and healthy. Do not let the cold weather put you off — your dog's coat needs just as much care in January as it does in July." — Kelly, Honourable Dog Grooming← Back to Blog