Dry Dog Skin During Winter: Causes and Solutions

As the temperatures drop and indoor heating kicks in, many dog parents notice a frustrating side effect of the cold: dry, flaky skin on their dogs. Understanding why this happens and how to treat it can make a huge difference in your furry friend’s comfort.

Why do dogs get dry skin in Winter?

Low humidity

During Winter, the air is naturally drier. Cold outdoor air holds less moisture and when you bring your dog inside, the heated indoor environment can make it even worse. This dry air strips the skin of its natural oils, which are essential for keeping the coat soft and the skin hydrated.

Frequent baths

After those muddy park runs or soggy rainy walks, it’s tempting to pop your dog straight into the tub. But too many baths can actually make their skin drier. And while that warm water might feel cosy on a chilly day, it also takes away even more of those protective oils.

Diet and hydration

Dogs who don’t get enough water or whose diet lacks essential nutrients may have skin that becomes flaky, irritated or more prone to itching.

Symptoms of dry skin in dogs

Dry skin in dogs can sneak up on you at first. You might spot a few flakes on their coat or notice them scratching or licking more than usual. As it gets worse, their skin may start looking red or irritated and in some cases, even develop tiny cracks.  If your dog’s coat looks dull or feels rough instead of soft and shiny, it’s a sign that your dog’s skin is not as healthy as it should be.

How to help your dog’s skin this Winter

Moisturising baths

Instead of frequent hot baths, aim for gentle, moisturising dog shampoos and use lukewarm water. Bathing too often, even with mild shampoos, can strip the skin of its protective oils. After a muddy walk, spot cleaning with a damp cloth is just as effective and far gentler on the skin.

Humidify the air

Adding a humidifier to your home can counteract the dryness caused by indoor heating. Maintaining a comfortable humidity level benefits both your dog’s skin and overall respiratory health.

Improve diet and hydration

What your dog eats has a huge impact on their skin and coat. A well-balanced diet packed with the right vitamins and fatty acids helps keep their skin soft and their fur shiny. If your pup struggles with dryness or sensitivities, you might want to check out Impact+ for Skin & Coat Care, it’s specially made to support dogs prone to itchy or irritated skin.

Another simple (and super effective) way to help is by adding fish oil to your dog’s meals. Fish oil is rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which:

✔️ Improve skin hydration 

✔️ Reduce inflammation and itching

✔️ Promote a shiny, healthy coat

A great choice is HoliPaw Omega Boost, a Vet-recommended fish oil supplement that’s loaded with EPA and DHA, the good stuff your dog’s skin needs. Most owners see noticeable improvements in just a few weeks!

And don’t forget the basics: always keep fresh water out for your dog. Hydration is key, especially in Winter when dogs might not feel as thirsty but still need those fluids to stay healthy and moisturised.