How to Keep Your Dog’s Coat Healthy All Winter Long

You might think winter is the perfect time to let your dog’s coat grow. Some breeds grow out quickly, so why not take advantage and leave your dog fluffy? Leaving your dog’s coat at a longer length in the winter can work well, but only if you’re prepared for the kind of coat maintenance that winter calls for. Dogs like Poodles, Yorkies, Shih Tzus, and Doodles need regular brushing as their coats grow. It’s not just about looks; it’s for their well-being.

Regular brushing and combing will prevent matting and help you notice any problems with your dog’s skin and coat. It’s also a great way to spend some time with your dog.

Matting can happen in any season, but there are certain seasonal factors to be aware of. For example, in the summertime, dogs that swim and hike will need attention to their coat after those activities. During winter, several factors can increase your dog’s risk of matting. Indoor heat can dry out the coat, making it more challenging to manage. When dogs play in the snow without proper drying and brushing afterwards, or wear sweaters, they can quickly become matted. Between a dry coat and the friction from winter sweaters, winter is a challenging season for having a good hair day.

Finding the Right Brushes for Your Dog

Before you begin brushing your dog at home, you’ll need a few tools. It’s not enough to buy any dog brush. You need the right brush for your dog’s coat type. ​Even on one dog, professional groomers use various brushes for different purposes and body parts.

Many general brushes are too harsh or not shaped for the best results. Some of the more common brushes include slicker brushes and pin brushes. You might use both on your dog. It’s essential to be aware that any brush can irritate. Learning how to use the brushes is the next step.

To find the right brush for your dog, first, learn about your dog’s coat type. You can ask your groomer or other experts for help. Another essential tool is a comb. Checking that you properly brushed the coat by running a comb through it is an important step. Make sure to get a comb made for your dog’s coat type as well.

You should also have a few products, such as a leave-in conditioner, to make brushing easier and prevent further coat damage and matting. While there are many types of specialty brushes and grooming tools, you only need the correct basics to get started with at-home coat care.

Teaching Your Dog to Feel Comfortable with Brushing

Once you’ve chosen the right brushes, the next step is training your dog to be comfortable with brushing time. It’s essential to start with short sessions. If your dog doesn’t like to be brushed, first practice with the back of the brush so that the brush isn’t pulling at all. Pair the activity with treats to reward calm behavior.

For puppies, I often recommend introducing a variety of objects. Gently pet your puppy while holding different items such as a brush or even a TV remote. This helps prevent fear because the puppy learns early on that the process of items (similar to grooming tools) touching them is paired with praise and attention.

Whenever possible, start this process early. It’s never too late to begin training, though.

Brush Your Dog’s Coat in Sections

When you’re ready to begin brushing your dog, work on the coat in sections. One of the most common mistakes people make is brushing only the top of the dog’s coat. If your dog’s back is brushed out, but the rest of the body is skipped, then keeping your dog in a fluffy trim will be impossible. Mats can quickly become tight and painful for the dog.

Instead, pay attention to every area of your dog, especially areas that most commonly get matting or are missed. This includes the legs, belly, behind the ears, and under the collar.

Brush your dog in sections, making sure that you work your way down to the skin. You should be able to part your dog’s coat anywhere and see skin underneath. You can check for tangles with the comb to make sure nothing was missed.

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Creating a Routine

Some breeds need frequent brushing. The right products, techniques, and tools will help make brushing time productive. Find a routine that works for your dog’s coat and lifestyle.

If your dog wears sweaters and jackets, make sure to brush under them regularly. Using a leave-in conditioner made for dogs can also be helpful.

While short-haired breeds won’t have problems with matting, regular brushing with the right brush can help remove excess hair and give the coat a healthy shine.

Grooming and brushing are skills dogs can learn, just like any other training. Training isn’t just about obedience or tricks; it’s about teaching your dog how to cooperate for real-life skills. It also helps people and dogs develop a communication system that creates more positive experiences.

Managing Winter Matting

Since matting is common in the winter, it might make more sense to keep your dog in a shorter style if appropriate for your dog’s coat type. Protecting your dog from cold temperatures is essential, especially if you choose a shorter style.

If you decide to let your dog grow out for winter, regular grooming appointments can still help prevent mats. Professional conditioning and drying can keep your dog’s coat looking and feeling healthy all winter long. No matter what you decide, at-home care routines are essential for all dogs.