Short answer: Pets grow a heavier coat in autumn and then shed it indoors all winter, because indoor heating keeps the coat in a state of change. Brushing once a week in summer is not enough – going into winter, brush two or three times a week with a deshedding tool, and expect more loose hair than usual. Bathing drops off in winter, which is normal, but grooming should not.
Why do pets shed more in winter?
Short answer: Two reasons. They grow a denser coat in autumn and the old coat leaves as the new one comes in; and central heating keeps indoor pets warm enough that the coat never fully settles. Outdoor dogs shed on the season, indoor pets shed on the thermostat.
| Task | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Once or twice a week | Two or three times a week |
| Deshedding tool | As needed | Weekly, or every few days for heavy coats |
| Bathing | Every 4 to 6 weeks | Less often – only when needed; dry fully afterwards |
| Paw and pad fur | Trim occasionally | Trim regularly – ice and grit collect there |
| Ears | Check weekly | Check weekly; clean when there is any odour |
What is the best tool for winter shedding?
Short answer: A dedicated deshedding brush for loose undercoat, plus an ordinary slicker brush for the top coat. Undercoat is what causes the hairballs and the furniture – a normal brush glides over it rather than removing it.
Should I bathe my pet less in winter?
Short answer: Yes, less often – but dry them completely when you do. A damp coat in a cold house loses most of its insulation, and small pets cool down quickly. If the coat only smells, an ear and coat deodoriser between baths is easier than a full wash.
How do I deal with hairballs in winter?
Short answer: Remove the hair before it is swallowed. Regular deshedding is the main fix; a brush with a self-cleaning mechanism makes it quick enough that you will actually do it several times a week.
Does my pet’s skin get dry in winter?
Short answer: Often, yes – indoor heating is dry air. Daily or every-other-day grooming helps spread the coat’s natural oils, and a humidifier in the room the pet sleeps in makes a visible difference to flaking.
Shop our deshedding brushes and grooming kits.