It’s winter, cold, and chilly. Of course our dogs need a longer coat, don’t they? Don’t they also need a rest from the regular grooming because it will make them cold and uncomfortable? These are, in fact, some of the most common misconceptions that most dog owners believe.

When winter comes, dogs actually need more attention. With no grooming, their coats will matt, causing discomforts and skin problems. To keep your dog happy in winter, we have asked Spoilt Rotten Dogs’ groomers their opinion and here are what they recommend.

Brushing & Dematting

Make sure to brush your pet’s coat at least once a day to prevent matting or knots. Brush properly using a slick and good quality brush that can get right into your dog’s coat. This will help remove sheds and detangle any knots. But don’t brush too hard or on one area only. This can be very uncomfortable for the pet.

Comb the coat after brushing, making sure you haven’t missed any forming knots. Do this thoroughly and ensure that every area has been combed. For dogs with longer coats, part their hair and comb right down into it. Work in sections for ease.

Remember: brush and dematt before bath time. Matts and knots can get a lot worse when they get wet. Soap residues can get caught in the tangle, too. And when they do, they will be clipped off as close as possible to the skin. This is not only unattractive but can be a very uncomfortable moment for your little one.

Washing

During winter, it is best to stick to your dog’s regular bath time schedule. It can be once a week, once a month, once every three months, or whenever necessary. The important thing is to use a high quality dog shampoo. Never ever use the same shampoo for humans because dogs have a different pH level. At least, use baby shampoo. Dogs with sensitive skin should use soap-free or moisturizing dog shampoos.

Also keep in mind to wash your pet in water with comfortable temperature—not too hot, nor too cold. Dry the coat well right after bath time, using a hair dryer, heater off, to avoid heat-caused damages. Make sure that your dog is completely damp-free before letting it play. And also make sure to dry them when they get wet from playing outside because body heat is not enough dry them well.

Nail & Paws Trimming

It’s best to check the nails and paws right after bath time. Most dogs grow hair in between foot pads. Keep that hair off the pads. Excessively long hair in this area will cause frequent slipping on ice, tiles, floorboards, and other polished surfaces. Sand, water, ice, and burs will also cling on the hair, making walks very uncomfortable.

Nails should be clipped regularly, too. Long nails prevent the foot from contacting the ground directly, thus pushing the toes outwards, making it uncomfortable to walk.

Coat Trimming

Most owners will want to leave their dogs’ coat untrimmed all throughout the winter season. But did you know that the cold weather stimulates hair and coat growth? It’s okay to keep the coat longer for about an inch, but regular trimming is still necessary most especially at this time.

Breeds like German shepherd and Samoyed have coats that naturally thicken up during the cold months. But breeds like Shih Tzu, Maltese, and Lhasa Apso will require more frequent coat trimming and grooming because of their more sensitive skin.

Winter, spring, summer, or fall, there is no season to stop on pet grooming. Daily cuddles should help you check your pet’s condition everyday and make sure that they smell, feel, and look alright. Don’t hesitate to book your dog with one of our professional groomers if you are unsure about how to groom him properly this chilly season.