Winter Groom vs Summer Groom -- What's the Difference?

Does your dog need a different groom depending on the season? Yes -- and knowing the difference can make a real impact on their comfort year-round.

A lot of people assume their dog needs less grooming in winter, or that keeping the coat long will help keep them warm. In reality, a well-maintained coat -- at any length -- actually insulates far better than a neglected, matted one. Grooming needs shift with the seasons, but they never disappear entirely.

In summer, the priority is often keeping your dog cool and comfortable. That might mean a shorter trim to help with airflow, a thorough deshed to remove the heavy undercoat that built up over winter, and extra attention to areas that trap heat -- like under the belly and behind the ears. We're also more vigilant about checking for signs of grass seeds, which can work their way into a coat and cause nasty skin issues during the warmer months.

Winter grooms tend to focus on maintaining a little more length for warmth, but we pay extra attention to the paws (moisture and mud can lead to cracking and irritation), and we make sure the coat is completely dry before your dog heads back out into the cold. A damp coat in winter is genuinely uncomfortable and can contribute to skin problems. Whatever the season, the goal is always the same -- a happy, healthy dog who feels great in their skin.