Most dog owners have likely felt the change in their post-walk routine. Autumn and winter walks are back, and so are the muddy paws, splattered bellies and damp dogs shaking themselves off in the hallway. They’re some of the best walks of the year, but they’re not the most forgiving for a dog’s coat.
Wet, muddy conditions can leave fur tangled, dull and unpleasant in smell, and the skin underneath can suffer too if dampness lingers. There are a few simple habits that pet owners can experiment with and introduce to keep their dog clean and comfortable. Having the right products to hand makes the caring process far easier.
This blog runs through practical, easy-to-follow steps for coat care in the colder months, and how Johnson’s range offers support at every stage.
Why the colder months can be a problem
Shorter days and wetter weather mean more time is spent trudging through mud, puddles and wet leaves. All of that can find its way into the coat, and a damp coat that isn’t dried properly can tangle and mat, eventually trapping dirt against the skin.
Breeds that have longer, thicker hair, like an Old English Sheepdog, are more prone to matting, but dogs of all shapes and sizes can feel the effects. Mud and damp also have a habit of bringing the distinctive ‘wet dog’ smell into the home, which isn’t enjoyable for anyone.
Start with brushing and drying
One of the most effective coat care methods doesn’t involve a bath at all. Regular brushing removes loose hair, dirt and small tangles before they have the chance to tighten into knots. If a dog is caked in mud, it’s often easier to let it dry and brush it out rather than rubbing it into wet fur.
Once the worst is off, towel dry thoroughly, paying attention to the areas that stay wet longest, such as the underbelly, the backs of the legs and behind the ears.
To make brushing smoother, Johnson’s Anti-Tangle Conditioning Spray is a gentle option that helps prevent tangles and knots whilst conditioning the coat. It makes grooming much easier for the owner and more comfortable for the dog.
Bath time, when it’s needed
Bathing isn’t necessary after every muddy walk, but there will be days when a brush and a towel won’t cut it. When that happens, choose a shampoo that suits the condition of the dog’s skin and coat.
For a general clean, Johnson’s Dog Deodorant Shampoo dispels body odours and adds lustre to the coat, and it’s suitable for all breeds. For dogs who suffer from itchy skin, Johnson’s Oatmeal Shampoo contains oatmeal extract and vitamin B to nourish and soothe. It’s also vegan friendly and made in the UK.
Finish with Johnson’s Luxury Coat Conditioner, designed to be used after shampooing. It helps leave the coat smooth and easier to brush, which is especially handy for dogs prone to tangles.
Rinse thoroughly and dry well afterwards, as a coat left damp can quickly undo the hard work.
Quick fixes between baths
It can be handy to have alternatives to traditional shampoo between baths. Johnson’s Dry Shampoo Foam is a pleasantly perfumed foaming shampoo that cleans thoroughly without water. It’s especially useful for spot treating muddy patches on legs and chests when there is not enough time for a full wash.
To keep dogs, and the home, smelling fresh, Johnson’s Dog Deodorant Sprays help to control ‘doggie odours’ and can also be used to freshen pet bedding and rooms. They come in three fragrances – Babyfresh, Cucumber and Lavender – all of which are vegan friendly and made in the UK.
Don’t forget faces
The face and eyes shouldn’t be forgotten about. Mud and rain splashes around the face can leave marks, and tear staining can be more noticeable in damp weather, especially on lighter-coloured dogs.
Johnson’s Diamond Eyes is a tear stain remover and facial cleanser that cleans the face around and below the eyes and helps to prevent stains from forming.
For a quick wipe-down after a wet walk, Johnson’s Clean ’n’ Safe Eye & Ear Wipes are gentle, pH balanced and made for the sensitive areas around the eyes and ears. They’re also 100% biodegradable and compostable.
Build a routine that works
The secret to confident coat care is keeping it simple and doing it consistently. Keep a towel and brush by the door for a quick tidy-up and dry after muddy walks, and spot clean as needed. Save the bath for when it’s really necessary.
A weekly coat check can help too. Feel for tangles or mats and look at the skin for any redness or irritation. Catching small problems early makes them much easier to deal with.
Autumn and winter don’t have to be a battle against mud and dampness. With a regular routine and the right products on hand, maintaining a clean, tangle-free coat feels much more manageable.
