Do you know how much the wintery conditions are affecting your dog’s skin and coat condition?

As dog owners, we’re often focused on diet and grooming, but environmental factors like mould spores, damp conditions, and indoor heating can also take a toll on our dog’s skin and coat.

Mould Spores: A hidden aggravator

Mould spores thrive in damp environments, and when dogs are exposed, they can suffer allergic reactions that show up as skin irritation, redness, and itching. Mould can also lead to fungal infections, especially in dogs with sensitive skin or weakened immune systems. To minimise exposure, keep your home dry, address leaks promptly, and clean areas prone to moisture. Regularly washing your dog’s bedding can also help.

Damp Conditions: A breeding ground for skin issues

Dogs living in humid or wet environments are more prone to bacterial and fungal infections.

During the winter months, walks are likely to be wet, your dog might even love running through puddles and mud! Damp fur can lead to conditions like fungal infections and irritated skin in dogs. To prevent this, always dry your dog’s coat thoroughly after baths or walks in the rain. If your dog spends time living outdoors, ensure they have access to dry resting areas.

Heating: Dry air and its effect on skin

During the colder months, indoor heating can dry out the air, stripping moisture from both our skin and our pets'. Quite often, dogs come inside to a lovely warm house from a cold, damp outside walk. This can lead to flaky, itchy skin in dogs, especially those with short coats or pre-existing skin conditions. To protect your dog, keep them hydrated and ensure that they are not directly next to a heat source and that they warm up gradually after a cold, wet walk.

Icy roads and grit: What damage is licking doing

During colder months, roads, paths and pavements often become icy, so grit is used to prevent accidents. Salt in this grit can cause skin irritation and dryness, leading to sore and cracked paw pads. Dogs often lick their paws to relieve discomfort, which can lead to stomach issues from ingesting salt. Once you get home from walking your dog on gritted surfaces, ensure you clean their feet, legs and tummy to save them feeling the need to lick themselves.

Maintaining healthy skin: From the inside out

Keeping your dog’s skin healthy requires a combination of grooming, diet, and environmental management. Regular grooming helps remove dirt, moisture, and dead skin cells, while a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids supports skin health. Natural supplements, like TurmerItch for dogs can support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory processes, supporting your dog’s skin from the inside out. 

Buy TurmerItch for Dogs

Hydration is equally important, so ensure your dog always has access to fresh water, especially in dry indoor environments.

If you notice any signs of irritation or infection, consult your vet early to prevent further issues.

For more information about Turmeric Golden Paste for dogs and other supplements in our range, give our friendly team of experts a call who can give bespoke advice for your pet. Call 01423 503 319 or email info@goldenpastecompany.com.