Seasonal Grooming Tips for Dogs: Summer vs. Winter Care
Your dog’s grooming needs don’t stay the same year-round. As the seasons change, so does your pup’s coat, skin sensitivity, and overall care routine. Whether you’re dealing with the summer heat or winter chill, keeping your dog clean, comfortable, and healthy means adjusting your grooming habits to fit the weather.
Here’s a breakdown of seasonal grooming tips for dogs in summer vs. winter, so your furry friend can look and feel their best no matter the season!
☀️ Summer Grooming Tips
Summer means more sun, more shedding, and more outdoor adventures—which all call for a seasonal grooming refresh.
1. Brush More Frequently
•Dogs tend to shed more in summer, especially double-coated breeds.
•Regular brushing (2–3 times a week, or daily for heavy shedders) helps remove loose hair, prevent mats, and keep your dog cooler.
2. Don’t Over-Bathe
•It’s tempting to bathe your dog more in the summer, especially after beach or pool days, but too many baths can dry out their skin.
•Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and rinse thoroughly to remove chlorine, salt, or dirt.
3. Trim, Don’t Shave
•While it may seem like shaving your dog will keep them cool, a dog’s coat actually protects them from sunburn and overheating.
•Instead, opt for a professional trim to thin out heavy coats and keep them manageable.
4. Watch the Paws
•Hot pavement and sand can burn sensitive paw pads.
•Trim hair between the toes to prevent debris buildup and apply paw balm to protect against burns and dryness.
5. Check for Fleas and Ticks
•Summer is peak season for parasites. Regularly inspect your dog’s coat, especially after hikes or grassy outings, and keep up with flea and tick prevention.
❄️ Winter Grooming Tips
Cold weather brings dry air, harsh conditions, and unique challenges for your dog’s coat and skin.
1. Reduce Bath Frequency
•Overbathing in winter can strip your dog’s skin of natural oils, leading to itchiness or dandruff.
•Bathe only when necessary, using hydrating or oatmeal-based shampoos.
2. Moisturize Dry Skin
•Just like humans, dogs can get dry, flaky skin in the winter.
•Use a dog-safe leave-in conditioner or skin balm to keep their coat soft and their skin soothed.
3. Brush Weekly
•Brushing in winter helps distribute natural oils, prevent matting, and remove any lingering snow or mud from outdoor play.
•Long-haired and double-coated dogs should be brushed more frequently to avoid painful tangles.
4. Trim Paw Hair and Nails
•Snow, ice, and salt can get stuck in the fur between your dog’s paw pads.
•Trim this hair and wipe their paws after walks to avoid irritation or salt burns. Keep their nails short to maintain traction on slippery surfaces.
5. Don’t Skip the Groomer
•It’s easy to put off grooming in winter, especially if your dog isn’t getting as dirty—but regular trims and care are still essential to prevent coat problems and skin issues.
Year-Round Grooming Essentials
Regardless of the season, some grooming routines should always be maintained:
✔️ Regular ear cleaning to prevent infections
✔️ Brushing teeth for dental health
✔️ Nail trims to avoid overgrowth and joint strain
✔️ Regular checkups with your groomer or vet
Seasonal Grooming Support at Bark & Luv
At Bark & Luv, we understand that your dog’s grooming needs change with the weather. That’s why we carry a full range of seasonal grooming essentials—from paw balms and shampoos to brushes, flea treatments, and more.
Need help finding the right products for your pup’s coat type and the season? Our knowledgeable team is here to help you build the perfect grooming routine, year-round.
Your dog depends on you to help them look and feel their best in every season. With just a few adjustments, you can keep their coat healthy, skin happy, and tail wagging whether it’s blazing hot or snowing outside.
Stop by Bark & Luv today to stock up on grooming must-haves or ask us for personalized tips for your pup. We’re always here to help you care for your furry family member—no matter the weather! 🐾