Winter covers the world in a glistening blanket of snow, brings us cosy evenings in front of the fire and invites us to take long walks through frosty landscapes. But while we snuggle up in warm jackets, your dog feels the cold season in a very special way. His paws touch the icy road salt, his skin dries out due to the warm heating air and his coat has to withstand snow and wetness.

Winter not only demands adaptation from your dog, but also special attention from you. The right skin and coat care will help your four-legged friend to get through the cold season healthy and happy. With the right tools and a little mindfulness, you can make the winter months as pleasant as possible for your dog. In this article, let's find out together how to protect your dog's coat, care for their paws and keep their skin healthy - step by step.

Why winter care is so important

Winter not only brings freezing cold and snowy landscapes, it also turns your dog's needs upside down. Skin, coat and paws are particularly challenged at this time of year - they are constantly exposed to the winter elements. This is precisely why your faithful companion needs your full attention right now.

• Dry air: The warm heated air in the house draws moisture from the skin. The result? Itchy, dry skin and unsightly dandruff for your dog.
• Cold and wet: Cold temperatures, snow and moisture attack the coat. Without the right care, skin irritation can occur and quickly become unpleasant.
• Road salt and ice: Winter is a real challenge for paws. Road salt, grit and frozen lumps of ice between the pads make sensitive paws cracked, sore and painful.
• Changed grooming routines: In winter there is less shedding and often fewer baths. But this is exactly the time when your dog needs an adapted grooming routine that provides all-round protection.

Your dog trusts you to accompany him through the cold season. With the right care, he will stay healthy, happy and carefree - no matter how cold it gets outside. After all, your dog deserves only the best, even in winter.

1. winter coat care - the natural protective coat

Your dog's coat is its most important protection against the cold and wet. To fulfil this task optimally, it needs the right care:

• Regular brushing
  In winter, the coat tends to become matted more quickly. Brush it regularly to remove loose hair, knots and dirt. This also promotes circulation and distributes the natural oils on the skin.
  • Tip: Use a gentle brush or grooming mitt to gently groom your dog's coat.
• Gentle cleansing instead of frequent bathing
  Too frequent bathing can dry out your dog's skin. If a bath is necessary, you should use a mild dog shampoo that moisturises and soothes the skin.
• Coat care from the inside
  Make sure your dog has a balanced diet. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are real helpers for a shiny coat and healthy skin. Supplementary oils such as salmon oil can also do your dog good.

2. paw care - protection from salt, ice and cold

Your dog's paws are particularly stressed in winter. They come into direct contact with snow, ice and road salt, which can make the pads cracked and sore. These tips will help you take optimum care of your dog's paws:

• Protective balm
  Apply a paw balm to the pads before every walk. It acts like a protective shield and prevents road salt or lumps of ice from damaging the pads.
• Clean paws after a walk
  Wash your dog's paws with lukewarm water after every walk to remove salt and snow. Then dry them thoroughly and treat them with balm.
• Trim the hair between the toes
  Long-haired dogs often form lumps of ice between their toes. A short cut prevents this and provides more comfort.
• Shorten claws
  The claws wear less on slippery floors. Check regularly to see if they need to be shortened to prevent incorrect wear.

3. skin care - moisturising and protection for the winter

The dry winter air often causes dry and itchy skin. You can give your dog relief with targeted care:

• Natural oils and creams
  Care products with aloe vera, coconut oil or shea butter moisturise and soothe dry areas of skin. A little massage is not only good for your dog, but also promotes blood circulation.
• Adjust the indoor climate
  Make sure that the humidity in your home is not too low. A humidifier or bowls of water on the radiator can help.
• Coat inspection
  Check your dog's skin regularly for redness or dandruff. If there are any abnormalities, a visit to the vet may be advisable.

4. exercise and activity - fit through the winter

Even in winter, your dog needs plenty of exercise. Cold weather does not mean that walks have to be cancelled:

• Shorter, more frequent walks
  Avoid long, extended walks in icy temperatures. Several short walks will keep your dog warm and fit. A dog coat can provide extra protection, especially for small or older dogs.
• Indoor games for active days
  When it's not nice outside, bring the fun indoors! With tug toys, search games or small obstacle courses, you can also offer your dog variety at home.

5. get through the winter well with emmi-pet tools

Winter can be a real challenge for your dog - but with the right emmi-pet tools, you can master the cold season effortlessly. These little helpers ensure that your four-legged friend stays healthy, happy and well-groomed:

• Paw balm : A real hero in winter, it protects your dog's sensitive pads from aggressive road salt, cold and painful cracks. A gentle protective film lets your dog run carefree over icy paths.
• Grooming gloves and brushes: Shiny coat, healthy skin: Regular grooming removes loose hair and dirt while gently massaging the skin. This improves circulation and prevents itching, which can be caused by dry winter air.
• Gentle shampoo: Gentle cleansing for winter-stricken heroes. emmi-pet shampoo cleans the coat thoroughly after muddy walks or a snow bath without irritating or drying out the skin. This keeps the coat soft and well-groomed.
• Tug toys: Fun and games, even when it's uncomfortable outside. emmi-pet's tug toys offer your dog an ideal way to release energy during the cold months. At the same time, playing together promotes your bond and keeps your four-legged friend mentally fit.

With these carefully selected tools from emmi-pet, you can ensure that your dog not only survives the cold season well, but can really enjoy it. A happy, well-groomed dog will thank you with a happy tail wagging and many unforgettable winter moments.

A winter full of shared moments

There's something magical about winter - ideally snow-covered fields, icy air and cosy hours at home. This time of year can be just as wonderful for your dog if he is well groomed and cared for. With the right winter grooming, you not only give him a sense of well-being, but also a feeling of security.

Turn grooming into a little ritual: gentle brushing removes dirt and dead hair, while a loving paw massage after a walk provides protection and relaxation. Plan playful activities that not only stimulate your dog's body and mind, but also strengthen your bond. A loving stroke, an attentive eye on his needs - these are the moments that make winter special.

With emmi-pet by your side, this cold season becomes a warm, happy time full of care and attention. A healthy coat, well-protected paws and happy adventures - these are the little secrets to a winter that you both enjoy to the full.