Breed-Specific Winter Grooming: Expert Advice from Newmarket
Jacob Munro • January 13, 2026
Breed-Specific Winter Grooming: Expert Advice from Newmarket
Winter in Ontario isn’t just about heavy coats and cozy sweaters; for our four-legged neighbours, it’s a season of salt-covered sidewalks, icy slush, and bone-dry indoor air. Whether you’re walking through Fairy Lake Park or navigating the downtown core, your dog’s coat is their first line of defence. However, "winter grooming" isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. A Husky’s double coat faces entirely different challenges than a Goldendoodle’s curls when the January freeze sets in.
At Paws in the Bath, we believe in a wellness-first approach. As some of the best dog groomers Toronto and York Region families trust, we know that consistent care is about more than just looking good; it’s about preventing painful matting, salt-irritated skin, and seasonal discomfort. If you’ve been searching for professional dog grooming Newmarket neighbours rely on, understanding your breed’s specific winter needs is the best place to start. From local salt protection to the perfect KONG enrichment strategy, here is your expert guide to thriving until spring thaw.
At Paws in the Bath, we believe in a wellness-first approach. As some of the best dog groomers Toronto and York Region families trust, we know that consistent care is about more than just looking good; it’s about preventing painful matting, salt-irritated skin, and seasonal discomfort. If you’ve been searching for professional dog grooming Newmarket neighbours rely on, understanding your breed’s specific winter needs is the best place to start. From local salt protection to the perfect KONG enrichment strategy, here is your expert guide to thriving until spring thaw.
Why Winter Grooming Differs in Newmarket/Toronto
In the GTA and York Region, our winters are uniquely harsh. Road salt and chemical de-icers used on our streets can cause chemical burns on sensitive paw pads. Meanwhile, the transition from damp, freezing outdoor air to the dry, forced-air heating in our homes causes coats to become brittle and prone to static.
This "indoor-outdoor" cycle creates a perfect storm for matting. When snow melts into a long coat and then dries quickly by a vent, the hair shafts tighten and tangle. That is why a consistent booking cadence, rather than "waiting for spring," is vital. Professional conditioning treatments and sanitary trims during these months aren't luxuries; they are essential for your pet’s comfort and safety.
Breed-Specific Winter Blueprints
1. The Goldendoodle & Poodle Mix
- The Challenge:
"Snowballing." Wet snow clings to the curly hair on legs and bellies, forming heavy ice balls that pull on the skin.
- Salon Routine:
A "Teddy Bear" trim (slightly longer but manageable) with a focus on a high-velocity dry and deep conditioning. Monthly visits are recommended to prevent mats.
- At-Home Checklist:
Use a metal greyhound comb daily. Focus on high-friction areas: armpits, behind ears, and between toes.
- KONG Recommendation:
KONG Classic (Red). Stuff it with wet food and freeze it. Give it to your Doodle while you work through leg tangles to keep them occupied and still.
- Crumps' Naturals Pairing: Beef Tendersticks. Break them into small pieces to reward your pup for every successful "brush-out" of a limb.
2. The Labrador Retriever
- The Challenge: Extreme shedding. The dry indoor air causes the undercoat to release in clumps, leading to "hot spots" if the dead hair isn't removed.
- Salon Routine: Our Signature Deshedding Treatment. This removes the "dead" winter undercoat while keeping the protective topcoat intact.
- At-Home Checklist: Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush to stimulate natural skin oils.
- KONG Recommendation: KONG ZoomGroom. Use this rubber "toy" as a brush at home; it feels like a massage and pulls out loose fur effortlessly.
- Crumps' Naturals Pairing: Mini Trainers (Liver). Use these during "bath time" at our self-serve stations to make the water experience a positive one.
3. The Husky & Northern Breeds
- The Challenge: Impacted undercoats. While they love the Newmarket snow, their thick coats trap moisture against the skin, leading to "wet dog" smell and skin irritation.
- Salon Routine: Deep-cleaning bath with a focus on the "blow-out." It is essential to get these coats 100% dry to the skin.
- At-Home Checklist: Daily checks for "ice dams" in the paw pads.
- KONG Recommendation: KONG Extreme (Black). These high-energy breeds need a challenge. The durable Extreme model provides the mental stimulation they miss when walks are shorter due to extreme cold.
- Crumps' Naturals Pairing: Sweet Potato Fries. A chewy, healthy snack that takes time to eat, perfect for a long session inside a KONG Extreme.
4. The Shih Tzu & Small Long-Haired Breeds
- The Challenge: Salt irritation. Being closer to the ground, their belly hair and paws soak up road salt quickly.
- Salon Routine: Clean feet (shaving the hair between pads) and a "sanitary" trim to keep the underside clear of slush.
- At-Home Checklist: A quick paw-rinse after every walk.
- KONG Recommendation: KONG Senior or Puppy (Softer rubber). Ideal for smaller, more sensitive mouths.
- Crumps' Naturals Pairing: Freeze-Dried Beef Liver. Crumble a small amount over a KONG filled with plain pumpkin for a low-calorie winter treat.
5. Mixed-Breed Coats (The "All-Canadian" Pup)
- The Challenge: Unpredictable textures. Often a mix of wiry and soft, these coats can "velcro" onto burrs and salt crystals.
- Salon Routine: A "Bath & Brush" plus a tidy-up of the "feathers" (long hair on legs and tail).
- At-Home Checklist: Focus on "The Line Brush" technique—ensuring you see skin with every stroke.
- KONG Recommendation: KONG Wobbler. Since winter exercise can be limited, the Wobbler makes them "hunt" for their dinner, providing great indoor exercise.
Local Wellness Tips for Cold, Salt, and Dryness
- The Paw Rinse: Keep a bucket of lukewarm water nearby. A quick dip after a walk in Newmarket or Aurora removes salt before your dog licks it off (which can upset their stomach).
- The Humidifier Factor: If your dog is itching and has static fur, add a humidifier to the room where they sleep. It helps their skin barrier stay hydrated.
- Know When to Call a Pro: If you find a mat that is tight against the skin (you can’t see through it), do not use scissors. You risk cutting the skin. Bring them to our Newmarket or Richmond Hill locations for a safe and professional clip-out.
Booking Made Simple
We know your schedule is busy. That’s why Paws in the Bath offers modern, tech-enabled booking. You can book your next appointment online in seconds, and our system will send you reminders so you never miss a seasonal maintenance window.
Consider our subscription-style rebooking:
by scheduling your "Winter Maintenance" every 4–6 weeks, you ensure your dog never reaches that uncomfortable "matted" stage. It’s the neighbourhood-first service you love, backed by the convenience you need.
Ready for a Stress-Free Winter?
Don't let the York Region slush or GTA salt get the best of your pup’s coat. Whether you need a full professional groom or want to take advantage of our famous self-serve wash stations, we are here to help pet parents across our entire community stay ahead of the "Grey Winter".
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At Paws in the Bath, we believe your dog deserves the best; every snack, every toy, every grooming session. That's why we handpick products that are good for your dog and the planet. From Canadian-made treats to must-have global icons like KONG, everything in our stores is chosen for quality, transparency, and real benefits for your pup's health and happiness. Let's explore our carefully curated categories and the trusted brands that make them special. Treats with Purpose: Canadian-Made Goodness Your dog may already have a favorite treat, but is it truly healthy? At Paws in the Bath, we've curated a selection of Canadian-made brands like Crumps Naturals, Tilted Barn, Gutsy by Crumps, Open Range Treats, and Healthybud. These aren't just ordinary snacks; they are made with natural ingredients and locally sourced meats. Every bite is designed to be as nutritious as it is delicious, so you can feel good knowing your dog is enjoying treats that truly support their health and happiness. Crumps Naturals Born in Mississauga in 2006, Crumps Naturals believes every dog deserves to thrive. Their all-natural, Canadian-made treats are crafted to support your pup’s health and happiness, inside and out, so they can wag, play, and live their very best life. Gutsy by Crumps Naturals Gutsy Prebiotic Bites by Crumps' Naturals are crafted in Canada using functional ingredients like apple pomace, chicory root, and fermented yeast to support digestion, gut health, and immunity. Backed by science and made with transparency, these treats incorporate digestive support in every bite so your dog feels their best in every phase of life. Tilted Barn Working from the Canadian Prairies, Tilted Barn crafts soft, pepperoni-style treats using only human-grade ingredients, like lamb or beef, with no fillers or additives. These family-farmed, hand-crafted treats made in Alberta are perfect for training periods, sensitive tummies, and pets of all sizes. Open Range These single-ingredient chews from hormone- and antibiotic-free livestock are processed under CFIA and FDA guidelines. Open Range promotes oral health with Canadian-raised chews that last longer periods and are packed with natural protein, delivering safe, ethical enrichment. Healthybud Healthybud combines science-based nutrition with clean, functional ingredients to create superfood treats that support digestion, joint health, and overall wellness. Using functional superfoods, these treats are backed by research, nutritionists, and veterinarians, reflecting education-first values that support pet-parent trust. Grooming Essentials That Care for the Planet Earth Rated Earth Rated is a certified B Corp committed to making a positive impact on the world while keeping it clean for dogs and their families. Known for eco-conscious products, from waste bags to grooming wipes, shampoos, and mists, Earth Rated makes cleanup sustainable and simple. We chose Earth Rated because their clean, Earth-first ethos matches our own grooming standards. Their poop bags are made with recycled components and leak-proof, compostable materials, while their grooming wipes are essential for quick clean-ups and keeping pets fresh between baths. It's practical for pet parents and gentle on the planet. Toys & Chews That Keep Your Dogs Busy KONG KONG has been an industry leader since 1976, creating durable, enrichment-focused toys designed to satisfy natural chewing instincts and reduce stress or boredom. A timeless classic, KONG helps keep pets happy, engaged, and mentally sharp. These interactive toys are perfect for providing healthy treats or training purposes, ensuring your dog stays mentally stimulated and physically active. Thoughtfully Chosen, Locally Loved At Paws in the Bath, your dog's wellness and happiness come first. We stock Canadian-made, natural products from brands that share our values: ethical sourcing, transparency, and quality you can trust. You'll also find industry leaders like KONG, chosen for their durability and play value, even if they're not Canadian-made. Every treat, toy, and grooming product is selected to help your dog live their healthiest, happiest life. Come and visit us at pawsinthebath.com for high-quality care for your dogs with the right approach and appropriate products. We'll help you maintain your dog's wellness and happiness. Your puppy will thank you later!