How to keep your dog’s coat healthy through autumn and into winter

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, we humans start reaching for our jumpers and coats - and our dogs’ grooming needs start to change, too. From muddy walks and blustery weather to indoor heating and dry air, the colder months can take a toll on your pup’s coat and skin. Luckily, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping them looking glossy, healthy, and feeling their best all season long.

Here’s how to keep your dog’s coat in top condition through autumn and into winter:

1. Brush up on your grooming routine

Regular brushing isn’t just about keeping your dog looking neat - it’s key to maintaining a healthy coat. As the seasons shift, dogs often shed their lighter summer coats to make way for thicker winter fur. Brushing helps remove loose hair, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils that keep their coat shiny and soft.

Quick tip: For longer-haired breeds, try brushing daily to stay ahead of tangles (especially after wet walks). Short-haired pups can usually manage with a few brush sessions a week.

2. Keep baths gentle and occasional

It can be tempting to bathe your dog more often when muddy paw prints seem to appear out of nowhere, but too much washing can strip away those essential natural oils.

Stick to mild, dog-specific shampoos that hydrate and nourish - and always make sure your pup is fully dry afterwards, especially before heading outside again.

For an extra pampering session, come into Love My Human for professional grooming and bathing. Our team can help keep coats clean, healthy, and perfectly conditioned for winter, leaving your dog looking and feeling their best.

3. Nourish from the inside out

A healthy coat starts with a healthy diet. High-quality food packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids helps promote soft, shiny fur and reduces dryness or itching during the colder months.

Try adding natural coat-boosting ingredients like salmon oil or supplements rich in biotin and vitamin E to support skin and coat health from within.

4. Towel-dry and protect after wet walks

Autumn and winter walks often mean drizzle, puddles, and plenty of mud. After your adventures, take a few minutes to gently towel-dry your dog – especially around the paws, belly, and undercoat. This helps prevent dampness that can lead to skin irritation or that unmistakable ‘wet dog’ smell.

It’s also a good idea to wash off muddy paws straight after a walk, taking care to gently clean between the paw pads where mud and debris can collect. Even small amounts of trapped dirt or matted fur can cause discomfort, so a quick check and rinse helps keep your dog’s paws healthy, comfortable, and ready for their next outing.

If your pup loves outdoor play in all weathers, a lightweight waterproof jacket can help keep their coat cleaner and make drying off quicker once you are home.

For a deeper clean or a little extra pampering, book a grooming session at Love My Human – our team will take care of washing, drying, and coat maintenance, so your dog stays comfy, clean, and cosy all season long.

5. Watch out for indoor dryness

As we turn up the heating, indoor air can quickly become dry - and that can affect your dog’s skin and coat too. If you notice any dryness, flakiness, or static, try running a humidifier in your home or adding a few drops of coat oil between brushes to restore shine and softness.

6. Regular check-ups and trims

Even during colder months, regular grooming appointments are still important. Our professional groomers can help tidy up long coats, check for any skin concerns, and make sure your dog’s fur stays manageable and healthy.

For breeds that don’t shed much, winter is a great time for a maintenance trim to avoid matting - just make sure not to cut the coat too short, as it offers natural warmth and protection.

A season for snuggles

With the right care, your dog’s coat can stay soft, shiny, and healthy all through the chillier months. A good brushing routine, nourishing diet, a few extra minutes of post-walk care, and a professional grooming session at Love My Human will make all the difference - plus, you’ll both enjoy those cosy evenings curled up together even more.

After all, autumn leaves and winter walks are always better with a happy, healthy, and well-groomed pup by your side.