Essential Winter Grooming Tips for Dogs

Dog Grooming & Care in Winter: Everything You Need to Know

Winter in the UK brings frosty walks, muddy paws, rainy days, grit on the roads and… a whole lot more washing for our dogs. While we bundle up in coats and scarves, dogs face their own seasonal challenges. From dry skin and cracked paws to wet dog smells and tangled winter coats.

Good grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking fresh. In winter, it’s essential for keeping them comfortable, healthy and protected.

Here’s your complete guide to winter dog grooming.

1. Keep Their Coat Clean (Even If the Weather Isn’t!)

Wet walks, muddy puddles and soggy grass are unavoidable in the colder months. Keeping your dog’s coat clean helps prevent:

• Odour build-up
• Skin irritation
• Matted fur
• Bacteria and environmental toxins lingering on the coat

A gentle, effective wash is key. Especially in winter, when skin can be more sensitive.

🚿 2. Use Quick-Clean Options for Rainy Days

Let’s be honest, winter doesn’t always allow for a full bath. That’s where quick-clean products save the day.

Our favourites:

• Animology Clean Sheets Pet Wipes – now in new space-saving packaging, perfect for wiping muddy paws, legs and bellies
• No-Rinse Dog Shampoo – ideal for freshening up between baths
• Pet Colognes – keep the wet dog smell away in seconds

These are perfect to keep by the door for after messy walks.

🐾 3. Protect Paws from Ice, Frost & Grit

This is one of the most important winter care steps.

Cold ground, frost, salted pavements and grit can cause:

• Cracked, dry or splitting paw pads
• Soreness or inflammation
• Irritation between the toes
• Dry noses from cold air

Before walks, apply a paw balm to create a hydrating barrier. After the walk, clean paws to remove grit and reapply moisturiser.

Top product picks:

• Animology Paw & Nose Balm – enriched with sweet almond oil, jojoba wax & shea butter

Vegan, dog-safe and perfect for daily winter use.

🌀 4. Prevent Mats & Tangles

Winter coats and damp weather are a recipe for matting, especially for long-haired or curly breeds.

Try to:

• Brush regularly (every 1–3 days depending on coat type)
• Detangle when the coat is dry
• Trim fur around paws, legs and belly to reduce mud build-up

Pair with:

• Animology Knot Sure Detangling Spray – makes brushing easier and more comfortable

🧽 5. Keep Your Home Fresh Too

When dogs get wet, the house often gets… smelly. Winter = prime time for wet dog smell.

To keep your home fresh:

• Wash bedding regularly
• Use pet-safe home sprays
• Clean paws before they come inside
• Freshen your dog with cologne sprays

❄️ 6. Don’t Over-Bathe

While hygiene is important, washing too often in winter can dry out the skin.

Instead:

• Use gentle shampoos
• Incorporate no-rinse products
• Moisturise dry skin areas (ears, belly, paws)
• Always dry your dog thoroughly after a bath

Winter Can Be Harsh - But Grooming Doesn’t Have to Be

With the right routine and the right products, winter grooming becomes easy. You’ll keep your dog comfortable, clean and protected from the elements and your home a little less messy, too.

Share Article