Winter skincare is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Cracked, dry skin is common among dogs during cold winter months. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take as an owner to keep Fido happy and healthy all winter long. Check out our winter skincare tips for dogs below!
Check out Fitdog’s essential winter product recommendations here!
Winter skin care tips for dogs
Reduce the frequency of baths
Bathing your dogs washes away essential oils that help moisturize their skin. If your dog usually gets a bath once a week, reduce the frequency to every two to three weeks. When you do bathe your dog, use a moisturizing shampoo, like one containing oatmeal.
Use a soft brush daily
Brushing your dog spreads around the natural oils to moisturize his coat and skin. Buy a soft bristle brush and use it daily to brush away dry skin and bring out the shine in the coat.
Give a daily omega supplement
Omega fatty acids help nourish the skin and coat to reduce itching, irritation, and skin allergies. Talk to your veterinarian about which supplement is right for your dog.
Apply tea tree oil to affected areas
Tea tree oil is an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial treatment that reduces inflammation and, in turn, soothes itching and irritation. Use a diluted product on affected areas to relieve pain, swelling, and itching. NOTE: Undiluted or raw tea tree oil is poisonous for dogs. Only buy diluted tea tree products like shampoos, hot spot treatments, etc.
Apply paw rub
Paw rubs, like Musher’s Wax, offer protection from harsh outdoor conditions and prevent paws from drying and cracking. For prevention, use one to three times a week. For treatment, use every day until the affected area looks and feels better.
Use a humidifier
Indoor heat (regardless of the type of heating system) reduces humidity and wicks moisture away from the skin. Humidifiers can ease dry skin symptoms in both dogs and people. Set one up near your dog’s bed.
Stay hydrated
Just like with people, drinking more water improves a dog’s skin hydration. Make sure water is always available, especially when your dog is exercising.
This article was originally featured in Bay Woof Magazine, a Bay Area pet magazine, on January 1, 2014. Bay Woof Magazine provides readers with information on all things pets. Twitter: @BayWoof
Last updated December 15, 2020.
Cover Photo by Janek Holoubek on Unsplash