Living in the Pacific Northwest means dealing with months of rain, mud, and damp conditions. While we love our outdoor adventures with our pups, winter weather creates unique grooming challenges. Here's how to keep your dog looking and feeling their best through the rainy season.
Don't Skip the Groom
It's tempting to let grooming slide in winter since your dog just gets dirty again. But regular grooming is actually more important in wet weather. Damp, matted fur can harbor bacteria and lead to skin infections. Keep to your regular grooming schedule.
Paw Care is Critical
PNW sidewalks may not have road salt, but wet conditions can still irritate paw pads. Keep the fur between toes trimmed to prevent mud buildup and ice balls. After walks, rinse and dry your dog's paws thoroughly.
Invest in a good paw balm to protect your dog's pads from cracking in cold, wet conditions. Apply before walks and again after drying their paws.
Manage the Muddy Belly
A shorter belly trim can be a game-changer in winter. Ask your groomer about a "winter cut" that keeps the body coat slightly longer for warmth while trimming areas prone to collecting mud and moisture.
Drying Matters
Never let your dog air-dry in cold weather. Use a towel or blow dryer on a low setting after baths and wet walks. A thoroughly dried coat prevents that "wet dog smell" and reduces the risk of hot spots.
Sarah Clarke
Professional groomer and salon owner in Lakewood, WA with over 15 years of experience grooming dogs and cats of all breeds. Sarah learned the craft from her mother and carries on a family legacy of compassionate pet care.
![How Much Does Dog Grooming Cost in Seattle & Portland? [2026 Price Guide]](/blog-assets/grooming-cost-blog.png)
