Winter Dog Grooming Guide: Keep Your Pup Looking Fabulous
As the cooler winter months are here, it's essential to pay extra attention to your furry friend's grooming routine. Cold weather, dry air, and frequent indoor heating can all take a toll on your dog's skin and coat. With this blog, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to groom your dog this winter, ensuring they stay healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.
1. Brushing and Detangling:
Regular brushing is crucial during winter, as it helps remove dirt, dead hair, dander and tangles that can lead to matting. A good rule of thumb is brush to 'avoid' tangles, not to 'remove' tangles! Give your dog's coat a good spritz of the Stinky Dog Grooming Spray then use a slicker brush or a comb suitable for your dog or cat's coat type. Start from the head and work your way down, paying attention to the undercoat. Regular brushing stimulates the skin, promotes blood circulation, and keeps the coat healthy and shiny. Top tip: if your dog gets anxious when products are sprayed on them, spray the product on a bristle brush, then spread the product through the coat.
2. Bathing:
While frequent bathing can dry out your dog's skin, occasional baths are necessary to keep them clean and fresh. Use lukewarm water and mild, dog-friendly products like those from the Stinky Dog Cleansing & Refreshing collection or the Stinky Dog Pure & Gentle collection (for more sensitive dogs or cats) to avoid stripping away natural oils. After the bath, thoroughly dry your dog, paying extra attention to the ears and paws to prevent moisture residue. You may also consider using our Waterless Pet Shampoos for either dogs or cats if it's too cold, your pet hates baths or has bath anxiety or they need a quick refresh. Both of our Waterless Pet Shampoos are made with a non-residual and mild cleansing base which will help with the removal of dirt, dead skin and dander whilst also refreshing and skin and coat. Tip: If your dog has sensitive skin, we recommend using the Cat and Kitten Waterless Pet Shampoo as it has a gentler formulation.
3. Moisturise Their Skin:
Winter weather can cause dryness and flakiness, affecting your dog's skin. To combat this, consider using a moisturising dog conditioner like the Stinky Dog Cleansing & Refreshing Pet Conditioner. Apply a small amount onto your hands and gently massage it into your dog's coat and skin. This nourishing formulation helps replenish moisture and provides relief from dryness and itchiness. It will also help keep your dog tangle free.
4. Nail Care:
Regular nail trimming is essential, regardless of the season. During winter, dogs tend to be less active, which can result in longer nails. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and difficulty walking. Trim your dog's nails using a clipper or grinder, ensuring you don't cut into the quick. If you're unsure or uncomfortable doing this yourself, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian. Don't forget the dewclaws too as these tend to grow curved and don't naturally grind down.
5. Paw Protection:
Winter walks often involve exposure to cold pavements or ice and salted roads. Protect your dog's paws by regularly applying the Stinky Dog Paw Hydrating Spray before/after heading outdoors. This product act as a barrier, preventing dryness and cracking. After walks, wipe your dog's paws with a warm, damp cloth to remove any dirt or salt (if in a snow prone region).
6. Eye and Ear Cleaning:
Take a moment to clean your dog's eyes and ears regularly. Use a damp, soft cloth along with some of the Stinky Dog Tear Stain Remover to gently wipe around the eyes, removing any discharge or debris. For ear cleaning, use the Stinky Dog Care & Protect Natural Ear Wash and a cotton ball. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push debris further into the ear canal.
7. Maintain a Healthy Diet:
A nutritious diet plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy coat and skin. Ensure your dog's food is well-balanced, containing essential nutrients like fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Consult your veterinarian to choose the best diet for your dog's specific needs.
Keeping your dog well-groomed during winter is essential for their overall health and comfort. Regular brushing, occasional baths, moisturising, and proper nail and paw care are key elements of a winter grooming routine. By following these tips, your furry friend will be ready to face the cold weather while looking and feeling fabulous.
Remember, if you're unsure about any aspect of grooming or if your dog has specific needs or concerns, email us at; info@stinkydog.com.au, drop us a DM on our socials or consult your Veterinarian for expert advice.
Reference: https://www.akc.org
1. Brushing and Detangling:
Regular brushing is crucial during winter, as it helps remove dirt, dead hair, dander and tangles that can lead to matting. A good rule of thumb is brush to 'avoid' tangles, not to 'remove' tangles! Give your dog's coat a good spritz of the Stinky Dog Grooming Spray then use a slicker brush or a comb suitable for your dog or cat's coat type. Start from the head and work your way down, paying attention to the undercoat. Regular brushing stimulates the skin, promotes blood circulation, and keeps the coat healthy and shiny. Top tip: if your dog gets anxious when products are sprayed on them, spray the product on a bristle brush, then spread the product through the coat.
2. Bathing:
While frequent bathing can dry out your dog's skin, occasional baths are necessary to keep them clean and fresh. Use lukewarm water and mild, dog-friendly products like those from the Stinky Dog Cleansing & Refreshing collection or the Stinky Dog Pure & Gentle collection (for more sensitive dogs or cats) to avoid stripping away natural oils. After the bath, thoroughly dry your dog, paying extra attention to the ears and paws to prevent moisture residue. You may also consider using our Waterless Pet Shampoos for either dogs or cats if it's too cold, your pet hates baths or has bath anxiety or they need a quick refresh. Both of our Waterless Pet Shampoos are made with a non-residual and mild cleansing base which will help with the removal of dirt, dead skin and dander whilst also refreshing and skin and coat. Tip: If your dog has sensitive skin, we recommend using the Cat and Kitten Waterless Pet Shampoo as it has a gentler formulation.
3. Moisturise Their Skin:
Winter weather can cause dryness and flakiness, affecting your dog's skin. To combat this, consider using a moisturising dog conditioner like the Stinky Dog Cleansing & Refreshing Pet Conditioner. Apply a small amount onto your hands and gently massage it into your dog's coat and skin. This nourishing formulation helps replenish moisture and provides relief from dryness and itchiness. It will also help keep your dog tangle free.
4. Nail Care:
Regular nail trimming is essential, regardless of the season. During winter, dogs tend to be less active, which can result in longer nails. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and difficulty walking. Trim your dog's nails using a clipper or grinder, ensuring you don't cut into the quick. If you're unsure or uncomfortable doing this yourself, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian. Don't forget the dewclaws too as these tend to grow curved and don't naturally grind down.
5. Paw Protection:
Winter walks often involve exposure to cold pavements or ice and salted roads. Protect your dog's paws by regularly applying the Stinky Dog Paw Hydrating Spray before/after heading outdoors. This product act as a barrier, preventing dryness and cracking. After walks, wipe your dog's paws with a warm, damp cloth to remove any dirt or salt (if in a snow prone region).
6. Eye and Ear Cleaning:
Take a moment to clean your dog's eyes and ears regularly. Use a damp, soft cloth along with some of the Stinky Dog Tear Stain Remover to gently wipe around the eyes, removing any discharge or debris. For ear cleaning, use the Stinky Dog Care & Protect Natural Ear Wash and a cotton ball. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push debris further into the ear canal.
7. Maintain a Healthy Diet:
A nutritious diet plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy coat and skin. Ensure your dog's food is well-balanced, containing essential nutrients like fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Consult your veterinarian to choose the best diet for your dog's specific needs.
Keeping your dog well-groomed during winter is essential for their overall health and comfort. Regular brushing, occasional baths, moisturising, and proper nail and paw care are key elements of a winter grooming routine. By following these tips, your furry friend will be ready to face the cold weather while looking and feeling fabulous.
Remember, if you're unsure about any aspect of grooming or if your dog has specific needs or concerns, email us at; info@stinkydog.com.au, drop us a DM on our socials or consult your Veterinarian for expert advice.
Reference: https://www.akc.org