Autumn care for your dog: keep paws, skin and coats healthy as the seasons change

Crisp walks, colourful leaves and muddy puddles — autumn is one of the best times to be outdoors with your dog. But as temperatures drop and moisture rises, it can also bring new challenges for their skin and paws. Here’s how to help your dog stay comfortable, healthy and ready for every leaf-chasing adventure.

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1. Why paws often get itchy in autumn

Cooler, wetter weather can affect your dog’s paw health in a few key ways:

• Damp ground and leaf litter soften paw pads and trap moisture, which can lead to irritation or cracking.

• Seasonal allergens such as mould spores and late pollen can cling to fur and skin, triggering itchiness.

• Prolonged dampness after walks can allow mild irritation or infection between toes.

Check your dog’s paws after each walk — especially between pads — and gently wipe away mud or debris. DotDotPet Eco Towels are perfect for this: made from 100% natural fibres, super-absorbent, biodegradable and compostable. Keep a pack by the door, or take Mini Eco Towels for smaller dogs and travel.

If your dog persistently licks or chews its paws, or if you notice redness or an odour, book a quick vet check to rule out infection or allergy.

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2. Bathing through autumn: why it matters

Regular bathing keeps your dog’s coat clean, removes allergens, and supports healthy skin during wetter months. Aim for a gentle bath every few weeks, depending on coat type and outdoor activity.

Choose a shampoo that is designed specifically to suit all your dog’s needs, including a fragrance proven to be non irritating to their powerful sense of smell and designed specially for their skin and coat. The award winning DotDotPet range meets all these requirements:

• Curly Coat Shampoo – nourishes curls with Olive oil and Biotin.

• Double Coat Shampoo – deep cleans and helps with shedding.

• Short Coat Shampoo – softens and conditions for smooth shine.

• Long Coat Shampoo– with coconut and babassu to detangle gently.

• Puppy Shampoo – extra-mild for sensitive skin and developing coats.

All DotDotPet shampoos are SLS-free, vegan and prebiotic-enriched, featuring our Shine Bright™ low-irritation fragrance and Neofresh® odour-control technology — perfect for post-walk clean-ups.

After bathing, dry your dog thoroughly — especially under the belly and between toes — using an Eco Towel to quickly absorb excess moisture and reduce the risk of irritation.

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3. Other seasonal considerations

• Ticks and parasites remain active well into autumn — maintain preventive treatments.

• Avoid acorns, conkers and mushrooms on walks; these can be toxic if ingested.

• Shedding and coat changes increase as dogs adapt for cooler months; regular brushing removes loose fur and debris.

• Indoor heating can dry out skin. Keep your dog hydrated and avoid resting directly beside radiators.

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4. Simple autumn care routine

✅ Wipe paws after every walk with an Eco Towel or Mini Eco Towel.
✅ Bathe every 2–4 weeks with the appropriate DotDotPet Shampoo.
✅ Brush regularly to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
✅ Check ears and paws for redness or odour.
✅ Keep up parasite protection and avoid toxic seasonal hazards.

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5. When to get advice

If your dog shows persistent itching, swollen paws, flaky skin, or a dull coat, speak with your vet. Early treatment keeps discomfort under control and prevents more serious issues from developing.

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In summary
Autumn’s muddy walks and damp weather can challenge your dog’s skin, but with small, consistent care, you can keep them comfortable and glowing. DotDotPet’s science-led shampoos and eco-friendly towels make it simple to protect paws, coats and the planet — so you and your dog can enjoy the season worry-free.