Autumn Dog Care: Keeping Paws, Skin & Coats Healthy as Seasons Change (UK Guide)

Autumn in the UK brings cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, fallen leaves and muddy walks. While many dogs enjoy the change in season, autumn can also affect their skin, coat and paws.

Seasonal transitions often mean:

• Increased shedding
• Damp undercoats
• Mud buildup
• Skin dryness from temperature shifts

Adjusting your dog’s grooming routine during autumn helps maintain coat health and comfort.

At DotDotPet, we often see more skin and coat concerns during seasonal transitions than at any other time of year.

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Why Does Autumn Affect a Dog’s Coat?

As daylight hours shorten, many dogs begin transitioning their coats.

This can lead to:

• Increased shedding
• Undercoat thickening
• Drier skin
• Duller coat appearance

Double-coated breeds are especially affected.

Supporting skin balance during this period is more effective than increasing washing frequency.

Why is my dog shedding so much?

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How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog in Autumn?

Autumn often means more mud — but that doesn’t mean more frequent full baths.

Instead:

• Rinse only when needed
• Use a gentle, regular-use shampoo
• Avoid harsh cleansers
• Focus on thorough drying

DotDotPet shampoos are prebiotic and designed for general use and sensitive skin, helping maintain skin balance even when bathing slightly more often due to muddy walks.

Shine Bright™ fragrance is professionally developed to be balanced and non-irritating — important during seasonal skin sensitivity.

Which DotDotPet Shampoo is right for my dog?

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Why Proper Drying Matters More in Autumn

Damp coats in cool weather can lead to:

• Lingering odour
• Undercoat matting
• Skin discomfort
• Increased loose hair spreading indoors

Drying thoroughly after walks becomes essential.

Keeping absorbent towels in the car or hallway reduces dampness and prevents mud spreading through the home.

Eco Dog Towels

Eco Dog Towels are particularly useful in autumn due to frequent wet weather and the practicality of reducing laundry cycles.

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How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws in Autumn

Autumn hazards include:

• Mud buildup
• Fallen debris
• Wet pavements
• Increased exposure to damp ground

After walks:

• Wipe paws thoroughly
• Check between pads
• Dry completely
• Monitor for redness or irritation

Consistent cleaning reduces discomfort.

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Does Autumn Increase Dog Odour?

Yes — damp coats and thicker undercoats can trap moisture.

Instead of relying on strong perfume, focus on:

• Proper cleansing
• Balanced deodorising
• Thorough drying

Heavy fragrance can feel overwhelming to dogs, especially during seasonal skin sensitivity.

Why Dogs Don't Like Perfume?
Dog Deodorising Spray Comparsions

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Quick Autumn Care Checklist

As the seasons change:

1. Expect increased shedding
2. Maintain gentle, consistent washing
3. Dry thoroughly after wet walks
4. Monitor paws regularly
5. Use balanced, dog-appropriate fragrance

Small routine adjustments prevent bigger coat issues.

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Final Thoughts

Autumn doesn’t just change the weather — it changes your dog’s coat cycle and skin needs.

By adjusting your grooming routine, choosing coat-appropriate products, and prioritising drying, you can help keep your dog comfortable throughout the season.

Seasonal care is about consistency, not intensity.