🍂 Top 5 Seasonal Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog & Cat Cozy & Clean

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The leaves change, the air turns crisp, and families enjoy cozy evenings, pumpkin spice treats, and long walks in the cool weather. But while autumn brings charm for us, it can create new challenges for our pets. Seasonal shedding, muddy pawprints, and drier skin are just a few of the issues that surface when the temperatures start to dip.

Good grooming habits during fall don’t just keep your pet looking sharp — they also keep them healthy, comfortable, and ready for the coming winter months. Here are our top 5 fall grooming tips to help your furry friend stay cozy and clean.

1. Brush More Often During Seasonal Shedding

As the weather cools down, many dogs and cats shed their lighter summer coats to make room for a thicker, warmer winter layer. This natural process is perfectly healthy but can quickly lead to fur covering your clothes, furniture, and car if not managed. More importantly, if loose fur isn’t removed, it can form tangles and mats that pull at your pet’s skin and cause discomfort.

Brushing more frequently — sometimes daily during peak shedding — helps keep your pet’s coat free of excess hair. A de-shedding tool or slicker brush is perfect for pulling out loose undercoat, while regular combing ensures the outer coat stays smooth and shiny. Consistent brushing also distributes natural oils, which helps prevent dryness.

2. Protect Paws from Mud, Leaves, and Debris

Fall means wet leaves, mud puddles, and plenty of outdoor debris — all of which seem to find their way onto your dog’s paws. If left unchecked, this can lead to irritation, infections, or even painful cracks between the paw pads.

Make a routine of wiping your pet’s paws after each walk. A damp towel or pet-safe paw wipes work wonders to remove dirt, allergens, and moisture. Regular trimming of the hair around the paws also helps prevent leaves and burrs from tangling in the fur.

For dogs who love exploring muddy trails, paw balms can add a layer of protection while also moisturizing the pads.

3. Combat Dry Skin and Coat

As we turn on heaters indoors and the air outside becomes cooler, the drop in humidity can leave pets with dry, itchy skin. This is especially true for breeds with double coats or sensitive skin.

A moisturizing shampoo and conditioner during baths can make a big difference in keeping coats soft and skin hydrated. Between appointments, a leave-in conditioner spray or coat oil can provide extra nourishment. Just like us, pets benefit from proper hydration — so keeping their water bowl full and encouraging them to drink more also supports a healthier coat.

4. Don’t Forget the Ears

Fall weather often means damp, humid conditions, especially if your pet loves crunching through piles of wet leaves. Unfortunately, moisture is a common cause of ear infections. Breeds with floppy ears, like Cocker Spaniels or Golden Retrievers, are particularly at risk.

Regular ear checks are a simple but effective way to prevent problems. Look for redness, odor, or debris — all signs it’s time for a cleaning. Using a pet-safe ear cleaner once or twice a week helps remove excess wax and moisture. During grooming, we always inspect and clean the ears, giving you peace of mind that your pet stays healthy from head to tail.

5. Prepare for the Winter Coat Now

Fall grooming is about more than keeping up with shedding. It’s also the perfect time to get ahead of winter’s challenges. Dogs and cats with longer coats often develop thick underlayers that can mat easily if not regularly brushed or trimmed. By keeping your pet’s coat maintained now, you’ll prevent painful mats from forming under all that extra fluff later in the season.

Scheduling a professional groom during fall ensures your pet’s coat is shaped and manageable before winter sets in. A de-shedding treatment or light trim can make a huge difference in comfort while still allowing your pet to stay warm.

Final Thoughts

Fall is a season for cozy sweaters, pumpkin patches, and family fun — not endless battles with pet hair, muddy floors, or itchy skin. With just a little extra attention to brushing, paw care, moisturizing, ear health, and coat prep, your dog will not only look great but feel their best all season long.

🍁 Ready to give your pet the gift of comfort this fall? Book their grooming appointment today and let Stylish Paws Salon bring the spa right to your doorstep. Together, we’ll keep your pet happy, healthy, and photo-ready for all your autumn adventures. Book online now.