Soon it will be fall and we are often asked about preparing dogs for the winter months. Dogs need grooming all times of the year. If your dog is a house dog its hair needs to be properly taken care of to provide a good amount of warmth during the winter months.

Shedding dogs begin shedding again in the fall. The old hair is shed out to make way for the winter coat. The dog should be thoroughly bathed and brushed to remove all of the dead hair. This is a good time to make sure that the toenails are cut as short as they can be without bleeding them. If your dog's nails are too long they may not have good footing on winter ice. It is very important that your house dog's hair is kept clean and mat free during the winter. Dirty, matted hair will not provide good warmth. When we groom your dog we also shave underneath the feet so they won't collect as much snow and ice.

Nonshedding dogs also need winter grooming preparation. A matted dog cannot stay warm during the cold weather. When a dog is matted its hair clumps together and opens up the coat, letting the cold air in. We usually suggest a dog be trimmed short around the first of October. Then it will have lots of long, unmatted hair for the cold winter. You may leave your dog in a longer trim during the winter, but it is important that the hair remains mat free. Your dog should be bathed and brushed frequently so its coat remains mat free. We offer discounted prices for just bathing and brushing. Remember it is important that your dog's nails are trimmed often during the winter months.

For more answers to your grooming questions feel free to call us at Harvey Oaks Grooming 333-8574.