Winter Dog Care - Keeping Your Pup Comfortable, Clean, and Happy All Season Long!
November 27, 2025
Winter is not only cold for us. It can be uncomfortable and challenging for our dogs as well. Between road salt, dry indoor heat, compacted winter coats, and snow-covered paws, our pets go through a lot during the colder months. Regular grooming and thoughtful winter care can make a major difference in their comfort, health, and happiness.
Here are some simple, pet friendly winter care tips that help your dog stay comfortable and ready to enjoy the season.
Winter Walks and Paw Protection
Snow may look soft and fun, but underneath it can be ice, sharp frozen snow, or salted sidewalks. Salt and ice melt can irritate or crack your dog’s paw pads, and snow can pack tightly between their toes.
Helpful paw care habits include:
• wiping paws after every walk
• checking between toes for packed snow or salt
• trimming extra fur around the paws to reduce ice buildup
• keeping nails trimmed for better traction
• moisturizing paw pads to prevent cracking
If your dog is licking their feet more than usual, limping, or showing redness, it is a sign something is bothering them. A little extra grooming attention makes a real difference.
Managing Winter Coats
Many people believe winter means no grooming. In reality, dogs still need coat maintenance in the colder months, sometimes even more than usual.
Winter coats often:
• mat more easily under sweaters and coats
• trap moisture from melting snow
• tangle around the chest, neck, and legs
• collect salt, slush, and road dirt
Matting is not simply a cosmetic issue. It pulls at the skin, traps moisture, and can cause irritation or infection. Regular grooming helps keep the coat clean and manageable so your dog stays warm and comfortable.
Extra brushing time, paw care, tidy trims, and coat conditioning treatments are especially helpful in winter!
Bathing in Winter
Some owners worry that winter baths will dry out the coat or make dogs cold. With proper care, the opposite is true. Gentle winter bathing supports healthy skin and coat.
Regular winter baths help to:
• remove salt and chemical residue
• rinse away dirt trapped in thicker coats
• soothe dry, itchy skin
• prevent mats before they start
Pairing a bath with the right coat care keeps skin hydrated and prevents discomfort caused by winter conditions.
Help Your Dog Enjoy Winter
Winter grooming is not about looks. It is about care, comfort, and preventing health issues that develop quietly under the coat.
The best winter care starts with a consistent grooming routine. Read more of our blog for even more tips on winter coat care
Book your dog’s next appointment and help them stay comfortable, clean, and happy all winter long.
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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!
One rainy Tuesday morning in Leslieville, Maya rushed into a local dog grooming salon with her Golden Retriever, Charlie. Though the place looked decent at first glance, what happened next left Maya concerned—Charlie came home with cuts, stress signals, and an uneven haircut. When she tried to speak to the groomer, she was met with vague answers and indifference. Maya's experience, unfortunately, isn't uncommon. In 2024, over 8.3 million pet dogs were living in Canada. According to the 2023 Canadian Pet Safety survey, 35% of grooming injuries in urban areas like Toronto were attributed to unqualified groomers. That's a staggering number, underscoring the importance of selecting the right groomer for your pet. This guide walks you through the essential steps for selecting a professional dog groomer in Toronto and avoiding the most common red flags. 🐶 Why Choosing the Right Groomer Matters Grooming is not just about keeping your dog looking adorable—it's essential to their overall health and well-being. A well-conducted grooming session ensures: Clean ears Trimmed nails Healthy skin A mat-free coat But when handled by an unskilled groomer, it can result in injuries, infections, and unnecessary stress. That's why being selective is crucial. ✅ Questions to Ask Before Booking a Grooming Appointment Before you hand over your pet, ensure the groomer meets safety and professionalism standards. Ask these key questions: Are You Professionally Trained or Experienced? Look for training that covers: - Safe handling - Breed-specific grooming - Canine first aid Do You Have Experience with My Dog's Breed? Different breeds have different grooming requirements. A Shih Tzu and a Siberian Husky need vastly different care. Ask whether the groomer: - Understands breed-standard cuts - Knows the right grooming tools - Can manage breed-specific temperaments 3. What's Your Emergency Protocol? Even skilled groomers can face unforeseen issues. Ensure they: - Have a pet first-aid kit on site - Are insured - Follow a protocol in case of medical emergencies 🚩 Red Flags That Indicate Poor Grooming Practices When evaluating groomers, keep an eye out for these warning signs: Unwillingness to show the facility. A professional groomer should have nothing to hide. Refusal could indicate poor hygiene or unsafe conditions. Rushed appointments without any consultation. Grooming should begin with a discussion about your dog's health and behavior, not just a quick drop-off. Lack of breed-specific knowledge. A "one-size-fits-all" grooming approach is a clear indicator of inexperience. Dirty grooming equipment or unsanitary areas. Check if tools are cleaned between dogs and if the facility looks hygienic and well-kept. 🌟 What Top Groomers in Toronto Offer The best salons go beyond the basics. Here's what sets them apart: 🛁 Clean & Safe Facilities Top salons prioritize exceptional cleanliness standards, ensuring a stress-free, hygienic space for your dog. ✂ Breed-Specific Expertise Expert groomers tailor their services to your dog's coat type, size, and breed-specific needs. 📝 Clear Consultation Process Reputable groomers: Ask about your dog's personality and preferences Address medical concerns Offer grooming options before they begin 💰 Transparent Pricing You should always know what you're paying for. Look for: Itemized pricing (de-shedding, dental cleaning, etc.) No surprise fees Clear service packages 🔍 How to Evaluate a Groomer's Work Use these tips to ensure you're making the right choice: Read Local Reviews. Go beyond star ratings—look for detailed feedback from pet parents in your area. Ask for Before/After Photos. A good groomer is proud of their work. Check their gallery or social media for photo consistency. Look for Professional Training. Seek groomers with formal training or apprenticeships from established grooming schools or experienced professionals. 🐾 Trust Your Instincts Choosing a dog groomer isn't just about credentials or pricing—it's about building trust. If your dog returns home happy, relaxed, and looking great, you've likely made the right choice. Just like Charlie, your dog deserves better. So: Ask the right questions Avoid the red flags Read real reviews Trust your gut 💙 Looking for a Groomer You Can Trust? At Paws in the Bath, we believe your dog deserves the safest, most compassionate care possible. With professional groomers, breed-specific expertise, and a spotless facility, we offer everything your pet needs to look and feel their best. 👉 Schedule your consultation today at pawsinthebath.com – Your dog will thank you, and so will you.