Ah, winter. The season of fires, oversized jumpers, and dogs who mysteriously start to smell more like the outdoors than usual. As the temperatures drop, you might wonder if bath time should be put on hold. Is skipping the tub during winter helpful, or are you setting yourself up for a smelly snuggle session?
The Short Answer? Yes, But Let’s Break It Down
Bathing your dog less in winter isn’t just about avoiding a soaked bathroom floor. Cold weather can dry out their skin, and frequent baths strip away the natural oils that keep their coat healthy. But skipping baths entirely isn’t the answer either, your dog still needs to stay clean and comfortable.
Why Bathing in Winter Is Tricky
Cold winds outside and the Sahara-level heating indoors can leave your dog’s skin feeling like an old leather boot. Add a bath into the mix, and you risk turning their coat into the canine version of dandruff season. The goal? Keep them clean without transforming them into a flaky mess.
Keep Your Dog Clean Without Overdoing It
1. Rinse, Don’t Bathe
When your dog decides that rolling in a mud puddle is the best way to celebrate winter, don’t reach for the shampoo straight away. A quick rinse with lukewarm water can get rid of most dirt without stripping their skin of essential oils. For smaller messes, dog wipes or a damp cloth will do the trick.
Tip: Focus on their paws and belly—aka the dirt magnets.
2. Brushing Is Your Best Friend
Think of brushing as the doggy equivalent of dry shampoo. Regular brushing not only removes dirt but also spreads those natural oils, keeping their coat healthy and shiny. Plus, it’s a bonding activity most dogs enjoy.
If your dog’s coat needs a little extra TLC, the LumiFur™ Red Light Serum Brush can help. It’s like a two-in-one grooming tool and spa treatment, using red light therapy and nourishing serums to keep their skin and fur healthy, perfect for in-between bath days.
Tip: Long-haired breeds? Brush daily. Short-haired pups? Every few days works.
3. Humidify the House
Your dog’s skin isn’t the only thing that suffers from winter dryness, yours does too. Running a humidifier adds moisture to the air, benefiting everyone in the house (including the plants).
Bonus Tip: Place it in the room where your dog lounges the most.
4. Paw and Nose Care
Salt and grit from icy roads can turn your dog’s paws into cracked, uncomfortable stubs. After every walk, wipe their paws and apply paw balm.
For nail care, the SilentPaws™ Nail Trimmer is a lifesaver. It’s quiet (like “sneak up on your dog while they nap” quiet) and keeps those claws tidy without the drama of traditional clippers.
Tip: If you wouldn’t walk barefoot on icy roads, consider some dog booties. Sure, your dog may moonwalk for a minute, but they’ll thank you later.
5. Tailor Baths to Their Lifestyle
Less active dogs need fewer baths. However, if your pup is the type who insists on turning snowbanks into rolling arenas, you’ll want to adjust their bath schedule accordingly.
Rule of thumb: If they smell, it’s bath time.
6. Choose the Right Shampoo
When a bath is unavoidable, use moisturising or oatmeal-based shampoos. Skip the fruity human ones, they’re cute but too harsh for your pup’s skin.
Once bath time is over, keep things fresh with SterilAir™ UV+. This sleek little device zaps away odours, bacteria, and whatever mysterious smells your dog drags in, making sure your house doesn’t start smelling like "Eau de Dog."
Tip: Always dry your dog thoroughly to avoid the post-bath zoomies and chills.
The Takeaway
Bathing less in winter isn’t just a trick to avoid the splashing, it’s good for your dog’s skin. Brushing, rinsing, and moisturising go a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable and clean. Focus on regular grooming, hydration, and a little extra paw care to get through the colder months with fewer baths and happier, healthier snuggles.
Now, grab a blanket, light the fire, and enjoy snuggles that smell a whole lot better.
