As the leaves transform into vibrant hues of orange and gold and the air grows crisp, fall heralds a beautiful shift not only in nature but also in our furry companions’ grooming needs. While many pet owners might overlook grooming during the cooler months, it’s an essential time to adapt your grooming routine. This guide will help you navigate the specific needs of dogs in autumn, ensuring they stay healthy, comfortable, and looking fabulous.
1. Understanding Shedding Season
Did you know that the amount of sunlight is actually the trigger to a shedding coat? As summer fades, and the days grow shorter - many dogs begin to shed their lighter summer coats to make way for a denser winter coat. The shorter days send a natural message to the canine body that it’s time to lose the light, summer coat and begin manufacturing a thick, protective winter coat. This seasonal shedding can lead to a substantial amount of loose fur around your home, which is why grooming becomes vital.
Tips:
Increased Brushing: Nope! You can brush till the cows come home and somehow there is still an endless amount of shedding coat! Repetitive brushing on a dry, dirty coat can also cause damage to not only healthy fur - but skin!!!!! There have been many times when a beloved family pet has been brush burned unintentionally by a caring owner that has just vigorously brushed their dog in a futile attempt to rid their furry friend of shedding fur. What is a brush burn? It is an abrasion to the skin that can cause minor irritation or, unfortunately hot spots and hair loss. Frequent trips to a professional groomer during shedding season is a great way to help ease the problem for both pet and owner! Consider the visit a spa day for the pet! And once a thorough bath, condition, and blow out is complete - try a nice, sturdy comb instead of a brush! Spritz the comb with a conditioning spray and gently comb through the fur. This is a much gentler exercise for coat maintenance and will help stimulate the production of lanolin to that precious fur!
Dietary supplements: There are so many high quality supplements for pets. Salmon oil is a good place to start! Why? Nourishing the coat with a topical conditioner only solves a small piece of the puzzle. If a dog has dry skin - it will actually exacerbate hair loss! But nourishing the coat from within the body will prove to be an amazing game changer! A diet of dry kibble irregardless of the quality will render a dog in a state of constant dehydration! A supplement of a natural oil - even olive oil added to their food - will help nourish the skin. Remember! A healthy coat starts within a healthy body!
Bathing: Consider giving your dog a bath with a deshedding shampoo that contains natural ingredients designed to help loosen dead hair. The water temperature should be as warm as safely possible to open the pores that will release dead hair. There are different needs for different coat types as well. Short coats need to be conditioned during the bathing process for sure!!! But they also need to have oil replaced to their clean coat. I rub a small amount of ozonated olive oil in my hands and I apply directly to the coat! This will feed the skin and replace the necessary oils that were lost during the bathing process. Did you know that just shampooing will remove the protective, necessary oils in the coat for up to four days? Constant bathing without the proper replenishment to the fur will just increase shedding and dry the skin. Medium coats like huskies and shepherds need minerals. There are wonderful mineral based shampoos that address the specific needs of these coat types. And yes!! Conditioners please! Curly non shedding coats need keratin but they exhibit minimal shedding. Bathing all year long on a regular basis will not only assist with shedding, but it also keeps the skin and coat healthy.
2. Moisturizing the Coat
Cooler temperatures can lead to dry skin for dogs, just like in humans. But is it cool temperatures or dry heat in the home? Probably both. So what can help?
Tips:
It is the perfect time to evaluate diet: kibble alone is not enough! Eggs are a wonderful source of protein and nutrition. How about blueberries? Watermelon? Absolutely! And don’t forget the fish oils that will nourish the coat from the inside out. A healthy dog that is fed a balanced diet will always have a beautiful, luxurious coat.
Oils and Sprays: A leave-in conditioner or coat oil can be applied after bathing to enhance shine and prevent dryness. Regular application will help keep the coat healthy and hydrated.
3. Nail Care Essentials
With the change in seasons, many dogs spend more time indoors, which can lead to longer nails if not monitored closely. Additionally, the wet, muddy conditions can also affect paw health.
Tips:
Regular Trims: Keep an eye on nail growth. Regular trimming is essential to prevent discomfort and maintain a proper walking posture. If your dog’s nails click on hard surfaces, it’s time for a trim!
Paw Care: After walks, check your dog’s paws for any debris, such as leaves or mud, that could be trapped between their pads. Clean and dry their paws thoroughly to prevent irritation. Also a paw pad moisturizer is an excellent way to keep those feet smooth and soothed. These salves are usually multi-taskers! They can help with those sensitive noses that may also split and crack during the colder seasons. But check the directions before applying anything on your pet!
4. Ear Cleaning Importance
Fall can bring increased humidity and dampness, creating an ideal environment for ear infections in dogs. Regular ear care is crucial to prevent issues.
Tips:
Weekly Inspections: Check your dog’s ears weekly for dirt, wax buildup, or signs of infection such as redness or odor. Early detection is key!
Cleaning Routine: Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner to keep ears dry and clean. Gently wipe the outer ear with a cotton ball or pad to remove excess wax and dirt.
5. Fleas and Ticks Prevention
Even as temperatures drop, fleas and ticks can remain a problem during fall. Maintaining preventative measures is crucial for your dog's health.
Tips:
Ongoing Prevention: Continue using flea and tick preventatives throughout fall. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations that suit your dog's specific needs.
Post-Outdoor Checks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your dog for any ticks or fleas. Pay special attention to areas such as the ears, between toes, and under the collar.
6. Preparing for Winter
As you groom your dog for fall, consider how to prepare for the winter months ahead. It is absolute nonsense that a dog shouldn’t be groomed during the winter! It is false information that an unkempt, matted coat will keep a dog warm. On the contrary! Yes their coat is a natural insulator. However it has to be maintained to allow for healthy air flow. Imagine your attic with no insulation? Then imagine it with wet, moldy ineffective insulation. Dry insulation will be the most efficient way to temperature control in both hot and cold climates. A dog’s fur is his insulation!!!! So pay close attention to the condition of the coat at all times to ensure the health and wellbeing of the dog during every season. Their body temperature is perfectly maintained with a well maintained coat.
Tips:
Winter Cut Considerations: For long-haired breeds, a winter cut can help prevent tangling while still keeping them warm. Consult with a professional groomer to determine the best style.
7. Grooming for Festivities
Fall is a season filled with holidays and gatherings, making it an excellent opportunity to ensure your dog looks their best.
Tips:
Schedule Professional Grooming: If you have special events coming up, consider scheduling a professional grooming session in advance. While holiday grooming is always fun - a regular grooming schedule brings such joy to not only the dog’s guardian - but to the dog as well! They enjoy the love and attention that they receive when they look and feel their best. After all - they are solely dependent on their owners for every aspect of their short lives. Keeping them in top condition will enhance their daily life and their relationship with their family.
Festive Touches: Adding a festive bandana, bow, or seasonal collar can give your dog a fun and charming look for fall celebrations.
8. Nutrition and Hydration
Grooming is not just about the outside; it’s also about ensuring your dog is healthy from the inside out. With the changing weather, maintaining a balanced diet and proper hydration is vital.
Tips:
Adjust Diet for Activity Levels: As the weather cools, your dog’s activity level may change. Make sure their diet reflects any increase or decrease in exercise.
Hydration Matters: Always provide fresh water. Proper hydration supports healthy skin and coat, so keep their water bowl full, especially if they are consuming dry food.
9. Monitoring for Allergies
Fall can also bring a host of allergens like mold from fallen leaves and pollen. Some dogs may develop seasonal allergies that can affect their skin and coat.
Tips:
Watch for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for excessive scratching, redness, or hot spots. If you notice any signs of allergies, consult your veterinarian for advice on management.
Conclusion
Grooming your dog in fall is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about maintaining their overall health and comfort as the seasons change. By implementing these seasonal grooming tips, you’ll ensure your furry friend is well-prepared for the cooler months ahead. Embrace the beauty of autumn, enjoy the time spent grooming your beloved pets, and take pride in their health and happiness during this vibrant season.
Feel free to share your own tips or experiences with fall grooming in the comments below! Happy grooming!
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