7 Tips for Bathing Your Dog in the Winter

Bathing your dog in the summer is easy. Your dog might not mind being hosed down outdoors, and you can let them run around in the sun to dry off. In the winter, though, a bath can leave your pup wet, cold, and miserable. Try these tips to get your dog fresh and clean year-round without the risk of turning them into a pupsicle. For winter-safe grooming products, explore our Dog Grooming Supplies category.

1. Consider Skipping Your Dog’s Bath

Does your dog really need a bath? Giving your dog fewer baths in the wintertime can help keep the skin’s moisture barrier intact, protecting them against dry, itchy winter skin. Unless your dog is particularly smelly or dirty, consider going without. But if your dog is truly dirty or needs a flea bath or medicated shampoo to relieve itchy skin, skipping their bath might not be possible.

2. Try Dry Bath Alternatives

Instead of a bath, consider spot-cleaning your dog with grooming wipes. You’ll remove surface dirt and debris from their coat and leave them smelling fresh and clean. You can also freshen your dog’s skin and coat with waterless dog shampoo, which works by clinging to dirt, oils, and dead skin. Just apply and brush out for a clean pup. Check out our selection of Dog Shampoos and Conditioners to find gentle options.

3. Work Quickly

If your dog needs a head-to-tail cleansing, make it quick to lessen the amount of time they’ll spend cold and wet. Grab all of your supplies – shampoo, conditioner, rinse cup, and towels – before fetching your dog. If possible, only dampen the areas that need cleaning, such as their paws and hindquarters.

4. Use Leave-On Conditioner

If you use conditioner to keep your dog’s coat soft and shiny, consider opting for a leave-on conditioner product during the winter. That way, you can skip the second rinse and reduce time spent in the cold.

5. Turn Up the Heat

If feasible, turn up the heat in your home to help your dog stay warm while they dry off. Or, supervise your dog while they warm up in front of a space heater or fireplace. You can also try warming up your dog’s towel in a clothes dryer just before their bath for extra warmth.

6. Avoid Letting Your Dog Out

Keep your dog inside until their skin and coat are completely dry. Even a slightly damp coat can trap a lot of moisture, making your dog vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia. Make sure to take your dog out before their bath so they won’t need to go out again for a few hours.

7. Use a Blow Dryer

You can use a blow dryer to get your dog warm and dry in a matter of minutes. A specialized dog dryer can be a great investment, but a handheld hair dryer for humans can work in a pinch. Take care not to burn your dog’s skin. Make sure your dryer is on the lowest heat setting and lowest speed. If your dog is not accustomed to being blow-dried, they may be frightened by the sound and airflow. Keep dry time brief by towel-drying first with a microfiber towel, and keep the dryer away from their ears and face. Move quickly and avoid focusing heat on one area.

For more grooming essentials, explore all Dog Grooming Supplies at PetMeds.com.

Keep Your Dog Clean and Comfortable This Winter

Explore trusted products to support your dog’s skin, coat, and overall wellness all season long by visiting the Dog Category on PetMeds.com.