Winter Grooming Myths and What Your Dog Really Needs This Season
December 31, 2025
Winter changes how your dog’s skin, coat, and paws behave, which means their grooming needs change as well. Unfortunately, there are a lot of winter grooming myths that can lead to uncomfortable dogs. Here are some of the most common winter grooming misconceptions and what your dog truly needs during the colder months.
Myth 1: Dogs Do Not Need Grooming in Winter
The truth is that winter grooming is just as important as summer grooming. In many cases, it is even more important!
During winter:
• snow melts into the coat
• salt sticks to fur and paws
• jackets and harnesses cause friction and matting
• indoor heating dries the skin
Without proper grooming, coats become compacted, mats develop beneath the surface, and skin becomes irritated. Regular grooming keeps your dog clean, healthy, and comfortable all season.
Myth 2: Long Fur Keeps Them Warmer, So Do Not Trim Anything
A natural coat helps regulate body temperature. However, when fur becomes tangled, matted, or packed with snow, it stops doing its job properly. Mats can trap moisture, block airflow, pull on skin, and cause significant discomfort.
Winter coat care is about maintenance, not shaving. Tidy trimming, sanitary clean ups, and regular brushing appointments reduce matting while allowing the coat to continue protecting your dog from the cold.
Myth 3: Paw Care Is Optional
Winter is hard on paws. Ice, road salt, frozen sidewalks, and rough snow surfaces can cause cracking, irritation, and dryness.
Winter paw care should include:
• keeping nails trimmed
• trimming fur around paw pads to reduce ice buildup
• wiping paws after walks
• using moisturizing care when needed
If your dog slips frequently, licks their paws after walks, or has cracking pads, they will benefit from regular winter paw maintenance.
Myth 4: Baths Should Be Avoided in Winter
Baths themselves are not harmful in winter. What matters is the right water temperature, the right products, and thorough drying.
Winter baths:
• remove salt and chemicals
• prevent buildup of dirt and debris
• help manage dry winter skin
• reduce itchiness and irritation
Conditioning treatments can also be helpful during the driest winter months.
Support Your Dog With Proper Winter Care
Dogs enjoy winter much more when they are comfortable, clean, and well cared for. Regular grooming appointments help prevent matting, protect paws, support healthy skin, and maintain a warm, healthy coat.
Book your dog’s next grooming appointment and help them stay cozy, healthy, and happy this winter.
Learn how to protect your dog’s paws, coat, and skin during winter. Practical grooming and care tips to keep your pup healthy and comfortable. Book your dog’s next groom.
Learn how to care for your dog’s coat during cooler weather. Prevent matting, protect skin, and keep your dog comfortable through fall and winter.
Discover safe, spooky grooming with pumpkin, bat-wing trims, and seasonal treats by Paws in the Bath’s neighbourhood experts.
Costume-friendly cuts, safety tips, and KONG aftercare from Toronto’s neighbourhood groomers. Book now.
Worried about your pup’s shedding? Discover fall grooming transition tips using Earth Rated products from Paws in the Bath experts. Read now!
Essential seasonal grooming strategies for Golden Retrievers, plus the importance of post-grooming nutrition with Crumps' Naturals treats for optimal recovery.
Now through Early October is the perfect time for dog grooming in the GTA! Discover why
Smart pet parents book now for appointment slots, and personalized attention.
Discover the telltale signs your dog needs grooming after summer fun. Learn professional tips and Earth Rated grooming wipe maintenance tricks at PITB. Book Now!
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.