Seasonal Dog Grooming Guide: From Shedding Season to Winter Coats

Every season brings changes to your dog’s coat, skin, and comfort. From spring shedding to the thick winter undercoat, your pup’s grooming needs evolve throughout the year — and so should their wellness routine.

Massage plays an often-overlooked role in supporting these changes. It doesn’t just relax your dog; it helps stimulate circulation, distribute natural oils, and keep skin and fur in optimal condition no matter the weather.

At Soul Paws Massage, we believe grooming and massage go hand in paw — combining physical care with emotional comfort for a happier, healthier dog through all four seasons.

Understanding the Seasonal Coat Cycle

Dogs naturally adapt to changing temperatures with a process called coat cycling — shedding old fur and growing new layers to regulate body temperature. While the amount of shedding varies by breed, almost all dogs experience a version of this cycle.

Here’s how it typically breaks down:

• Spring: Heavy shedding as winter coats release.

• Summer: Lighter coat growth, skin protection, and oil regulation.

• Fall: Thicker coat development for insulation.

• Winter: Dense undercoat for warmth and protection.

This natural process keeps your dog comfortable — but it can also cause skin dryness, irritation, or matting if not properly maintained. That’s where grooming and massage work together beautifully.

Spring: The Shedding Season

As days lengthen, dogs begin to lose their thick winter coats. This can result in loose fur buildup, tangles, and itchy skin.

Grooming Tips

• Use a de-shedding brush or grooming glove several times a week.

• Bathe with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo to soothe dry winter skin.

• Check for seasonal allergies as pollen levels rise.

Massage Benefits

Massage boosts circulation to the skin, helping new hair grow evenly and shedding occur more smoothly. It also helps remove dead skin cells and stimulate oil glands, leaving your dog’s coat shiny and soft.

Bonus tip: Focus on gentle, sweeping strokes down the back and shoulders to loosen old fur and promote relaxation.

Summer: Keeping Cool and Comfortable

Hot weather can bring new challenges — from dehydration to bug bites. Dogs tend to lose less hair but experience more skin irritation from heat and outdoor exposure.

Grooming Tips

• Trim long fur around paws and belly for better air flow.

• Avoid shaving double-coated breeds (it disrupts temperature regulation).

• Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas like the nose and ears.

Massage Benefits

Massage in summer helps maintain hydration and muscle tone, especially after active play or swimming. It also supports lymphatic drainage — helping the body eliminate toxins and cool itself naturally.

A cooling massage session after outdoor activity can calm overstimulated muscles and reduce post-play stiffness.

Fall: Preparing for the Winter Coat

As temperatures drop, your dog’s body prepares for thicker fur growth. This is the perfect time to nurture skin health and prevent matting before winter.

Grooming Tips

• Increase brushing frequency to prevent tangles during coat thickening.

• Use a conditioning spray or natural oil to keep fur soft.

• Check for fleas and ticks as they seek warmth indoors.

Massage Benefits

Massage helps stimulate the sebaceous glands, distributing natural oils throughout the coat for even growth and shine. It also improves flexibility — vital as cooler weather often makes joints stiffer, especially in senior dogs.

Focus on: gentle circular motions around the hips and shoulders to warm muscles and maintain mobility.

Winter: Protection and Circulation

Cold, dry air can make skin flaky and coats dull. Dogs often spend more time indoors, which can lead to lower circulation and mild stiffness.

Grooming Tips

• Brush regularly to distribute oils and prevent static buildup.

• Limit baths to avoid drying the skin.

• Use a humidifier indoors to maintain skin moisture.

Massage Benefits

Winter massage improves circulation, promotes warmth, and supports immune health by reducing stress. It’s especially valuable for senior dogs or those with arthritis — improving mobility and reducing pain from cold-sensitive joints.

You can also combine massage with gentle stretching or passive range-of-motion exercises to keep your dog limber through the colder months.

The Grooming–Massage Connection

When grooming and massage are integrated, they become a complete wellness routine:

Grooming Benefits	Massage Benefits
Removes loose fur and dirt	Stimulates skin and muscles
Prevents mats and tangles	Boosts circulation and lymph flow
Distributes natural oils	Enhances coat shine and texture
Supports skin health	Calms nerves and reduces anxiety

Together, they nurture your dog inside and out — creating balance between physical cleanliness and emotional harmony.

At-Home Massage Tips for Every Season

• Use your hands like a brush: Long, smooth strokes follow the direction of fur growth.

• Start small: Begin with short sessions and observe your dog’s body language for comfort cues.

• Focus on high-shed zones: Shoulders, haunches, and tail base benefit most during shedding seasons.

• Finish with calm energy: End each session with still hands and soft praise to reinforce trust.

If your dog shows tension, sensitivity, or unusual hair loss, it may be time for a professional session.

Professional Massage for Year-Round Wellness

At Soul Paws Massage, our certified practitioners adjust massage techniques to fit the season — from light, cooling strokes in summer to deep, warming sessions in winter.

We help your dog transition comfortably through every stage of the year while supporting healthy skin, coat, and emotional balance. Whether your pup is shedding, shivering, or shining, our holistic approach keeps them feeling their best.

Conclusion

A shiny coat starts beneath the surface. By combining regular grooming with seasonal massage, you nurture your dog’s health from the inside out — improving circulation, strengthening skin, and easing tension all year long.

Because when your dog feels good in their skin, they truly glow — no matter the season.