The Importance of Proper Grooming For Dogs During Winter

Dog grooming isn't only for the summer. Dog grooming in the winter is just as crucial for your pet's safety and well-being.

A healthy coat is similar to a thermos in that it works as a temperature regulator, keeping the heat in during the winter and heat out during the summer.

The idea is to assist your dog in maintaining a healthy coat throughout the seasons so they can regulate their body temperature adequately. This requires essential maintenance like washing, brushing, moisturizing, and removing mats and tangles.

To help your dog obtain a healthy winter coat, here are five dog grooming areas that require special attention when the weather turns chilly.

1. Pay Special Attention to Nails

If you want your dog to keep their paws warm, you need to keep their nails trimmed. A quick run outside on the ice and snow will do more to damage your dog's nails than any amount of trimming.

FURminator Nail Clippers For Dogs and Cats

Many dogs break their nails when they slip on the ice. A good idea is to stow a pair of clippers in your coat pocket and give your dog's nails a quick trim whenever you head out. It'll keep their nails in good shape and prevent their front paws from getting cold and wet.

If your dog has been on a salt lick in your backyard, it's a good idea to clean their paws with a damp rag after a walk. Many dogs lick the salt off their paws and ingest it, which can cause health problems later on.

2. Skip the Winter Dog haircuts

Some dog owners like to shave their dogs down to avoid cold ears and toes during the winter months. However, it would help if you resisted the urge and instead focused on keeping your dog's coat healthy and strong through excellent grooming habits.

Shaving a dog's coat is like throwing a wet blanket on your fireplace. The damp and matted hair will slow down the evaporation and make it harder for your dog to regulate temperature.

Instead, focus on keeping your dog's coat groomed with regular brushing and combing. Use a quality de-matting tool to remove all mats and tangles, and if you must go outside, make sure your dog has a warm sweater or coat on.

3. Take Care of Dry Skin

Dry skin is a significant problem in many dogs and can make your pet feel uncomfortable. Unfortunately, winter weather can exacerbate the problem.

One of the best ways to maintain a healthy coat and skin is to bathe your dog once or twice a month. Use a simple dog shampoo made especially for dry skin, and make sure to rinse thoroughly.

After the bath, you should apply a high-quality moisturizing dog oil or lotion for dry skin. This will help lock in moisture and make your dog's coat and skin softer and smoother.

4. Keep Ears and Eyes Healthy

It's also essential to keep your dog's eyes and ears healthy during the winter months. Bacteria and germs can build up in ear and eye hair, creating irritations and infections.

Use an ear cleaner to flush out excess wax. Some dog owners use a cotton swab to gently clean the ear and then apply a few drops of a natural ear cleaner to help remove the wax.

To make sure your dog's eyes stay healthy, brush the hair away from the eye regularly. Doing this every day helps prevent any buildup of gunk that can irritate your dog's eyes.

5. Try Out Dog Boots

Cold weather creates slippery conditions on the ground, and your dog may slip on ice or snow, then damage a toe or other extremity.

To help your dog stay safe, you should consider purchasing dog boots to protect her paws from the elements. Dog boots are commonly used by sled dogs and other active canine breeds.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog groomed is one of the best ways to ensure your dog keeps her coat healthy. When cold weather rolls around, you should pay extra attention to nail trimming, keeping ears and eyes clean, keeping dry skin healthy, and keeping your dog's coat moisturized.

If you're looking for a pet supply store that can provide you with all your pet grooming and nutrition needs, then we've got you covered. We here at Earthwise Pet Supply & Grooming Bentonville offer a wide array of local pet supplies that are geared towards helping your dog have a healthy and happy life. For more information about our products, check out our website today!