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Seasonal Grooming

A dog’s grooming needs can change throughout the year as weather, temperature, humidity, allergens, and outdoor activity levels shift. Seasonal grooming helps support coat condition, skin health, comfort, and overall well-being during changing environments.

Whether grooming at home or working with a professional groomer, adjusting routines seasonally can help dogs stay healthy, comfortable, and protected year-round.

Spring Grooming

Spring often brings increased shedding, mud, allergens, and outdoor activity.

 

Common Seasonal Changes:

  • Heavy shedding in double-coated breeds

  • Increased exposure to pollen and allergens

  • Wet or muddy coats

  • Flea and tick season begins in many areas

At Home:

  • Increase brushing frequency during shedding season

  • Wipe paws and coats after outdoor walks

  • Check ears and skin for irritation

  • Maintain flea and tick prevention

At the Groomer:

  • Deshedding treatments may help manage seasonal coat blowouts

  • Professional bathing can help remove allergens and debris

Watch For:

  • Hot spots

  • Excessive itching

  • Seasonal skin irritation

Summer Grooming

Warm weather increases the importance of coat maintenance, hydration, and skin protection.

Important Notes:

  • Most double-coated dogs should not be shaved unless medically necessary

  • Proper brushing helps air circulate through the coat naturally

  • Sun exposure can affect sensitive skin

At Home:

  • Brush regularly to prevent compacted undercoat

  • Keep dogs cool and hydrated

  • Check paw pads after hot pavement exposure

  • Bathe after swimming when needed

At the Groomer:

  • Sanitary trims and light maintenance trims may improve comfort

  • Groomers can help remove packed undercoat safely

Watch For:

  • Heat stress

  • Dry skin

  • Sunburn

  • Ear irritation after swimming

Fall Grooming

Fall often brings another seasonal shed and preparation for colder weather.

Common Seasonal Changes:

  • Coat transitions begin again

  • Increased moisture and debris outdoors

  • Cooler temperatures may dry skin

At Home:

  • Continue regular brushing

  • Monitor skin condition during weather changes

  • Keep paws clean and dry

At the Groomer:

  • Coat maintenance helps prepare for winter growth

  • Routine nail and ear care remain important

Watch For:

  • Dry skin

  • Excessive shedding

  • Coat matting under jackets or harnesses

Winter Grooming

Winter weather can affect skin, paws, and coat condition.

Common Seasonal Concerns:

  • Dry indoor heat

  • Snow, ice, and salt exposure

  • Increased matting from sweaters or wet coats

At Home:

  • Wipe paws after walks

  • Keep coats brushed and dry

  • Monitor for cracked paw pads

  • Avoid overbathing during dry seasons

At the Groomer:

  • Routine grooming still supports coat health during winter

  • Groomers can help manage matting and skin dryness

Watch For:

  • Dry or flaky skin

  • Paw irritation

  • Moisture trapped beneath thick coats

Seasonal Grooming Reminders

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No matter the season:

  • Keep grooming routines calm and positive

  • Adjust brushing frequency based on coat condition

  • Monitor for skin changes, parasites, or discomfort

  • Stay consistent with nail, ear, and dental care

  • Seek veterinary support when concerns arise

Emotional Wellness Matters Too

 

Seasonal changes can affect behavior, stress levels, and tolerance for grooming. Some dogs may become more sensitive during heat, storms, allergies, or environmental changes.

Support comfort by:

  • Keeping sessions short and positive

  • Grooming during calm times of day

  • Watching body language closely

  • Allowing breaks when needed

Final Thoughts

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Seasonal grooming is about more than appearance — it helps dogs stay comfortable, healthy, and supported throughout the year. Small adjustments in care routines can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s comfort, coat condition, and overall well-being.

 

Healthy grooming routines change with the seasons — and every dog is unique.

Helpful Handouts

This Seasonal Grooming handout was created to help dog owners better understand how changing weather and environmental conditions can affect a dog’s grooming and overall wellness needs throughout the year. From seasonal shedding and skin care to paw protection, coat maintenance, and emotional comfort, these simple guidelines are designed to support healthy, safe, and compassionate grooming routines in every season. Whether grooming at home or working with a professional groomer, small seasonal adjustments can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s comfort, coat condition, and overall well-being.

Seasonal Grooming guide for dogs by Tethered Grace.
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