Posted on January 27th, 2026.

 

In a town like Calais, Maine, changing seasons bring more than new views out the window. They also bring changes to your pet’s skin and coat.

One week you are sweeping up tumbleweeds of fur, and the next you are wondering if their coat feels drier than usual. Seasonal shifts quietly reshape how comfortable your dog or cat feels each day.

You swap boots for sandals and jackets for T-shirts; your pet also “changes outfits” in its own way. Shedding cycles, coat thickness, and skin sensitivity all respond to temperature, humidity, and daylight.

When you understand what those changes mean, it becomes much easier to support your pet through them.

Seasonal pet care is really about staying one step ahead. With a bit of planning, the right tools, and a mix of professional grooming and at-home care, you can keep their coat healthy, their skin calm, and your home a lot less furry all year long.

 

Seasonal Shedding and Coat Changes

Seasonal shedding is your pet’s built-in temperature control system. As days warm up or cool down, many dogs and cats shed old hair to make room for a coat better suited to the new season. That is why spring and fall often feel like “fur season,” with more hair on the floor, on the couch, and on your clothes. While it can be messy, this cycle is normal and healthy when managed well.

The way shedding shows up depends heavily on coat type. Double-coated dogs like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and Newfoundlands often release a thick undercoat in clumps, especially in spring and fall. Single-coated breeds, such as many poodles and some terriers, tend to shed less year-round but may be more prone to matting if their coat is not trimmed and brushed regularly. Knowing which category your pet falls into helps you choose the right seasonal pet grooming by fur type.

During heavy shedding periods, undercoat hair can build up and create tangles, hot spots, and skin irritation. Loose fur traps moisture and debris against the skin, which may lead to itchiness or odor if it is not removed. Regular grooming breaks up this buildup before it becomes a problem. For double-coated pets, tools designed to reach the undercoat are especially useful, while non-shedding breeds benefit more from frequent combing and trims.

Managing seasonal shedding starts with a simple plan: consistent brushing, regular baths, and strategic help from a professional groomer during peak shedding times. A gentle routine is better than an occasional marathon brushing session. Short, frequent grooming sessions also help your pet stay relaxed and comfortable with handling.

Here are a few focused ways to stay ahead of seasonal shedding without repeating what you already do every day:

• Use Coat-Specific Tools: Choose different brushes for undercoats, smooth coats, and curly coats to avoid scratching skin or breaking hair.
• Schedule Seasonal Checkups: Book grooming appointments just before peak shedding seasons to clear out built-up fur.
• Watch Sensitive Areas: Pay extra attention behind ears, under collars, and near hind legs, where mats and tangles often begin.
• Adjust Water Temperature: Use lukewarm water during baths to protect sensitive skin, especially in colder months.
• Track Shedding Patterns: Notice when your pet tends to shed more so you can plan grooming in advance each year.

When you respect your pet’s natural shedding rhythm instead of fighting it, seasonal changes become more manageable. A steady grooming routine means fewer tangles, fewer surprise fur piles, and a pet that feels comfortable as temperatures rise and fall.

 

Grooming Tips for Different Fur Types

Not all fur behaves the same way, and different coat types call for different grooming strategies. Curly-coated breeds like Poodles, Bichons, and Portuguese Water Dogs may not shed heavily, but their curls can trap dead hair and debris close to the skin. Without regular care, those lovely curls can quickly turn into tight mats that pull on the skin and cause discomfort.

Curly coats do best with frequent brushing and scheduled trims. Slicker brushes and metal combs can reach through curls to separate strands gently. Brushing several times a week keeps the coat airy and reduces the chance of hidden knots forming close to the skin. During baths, moisturizing shampoos and conditioners help curls stay soft, manageable, and less prone to tangling between grooming sessions.

Short-haired dogs like Beagles, Boxers, and Dobermans may seem low-maintenance at first, but they shed more evenly throughout the year. Their fine hairs often work their way into fabric, corners, and car seats. A simple rubber grooming mitt or bristle brush once or twice a week helps remove loose hair and brings out a healthy shine by distributing natural oils.

Double-coated dogs such as Huskies, Akitas, and Shepherds present a different kind of challenge. They have a protective outer coat and a soft undercoat that thickens in cold weather and thins out as temperatures rise. Shaving these dogs may seem like a shortcut, but it interferes with their natural insulation and can make it harder for them to regulate body temperature. Instead, focus on consistent undercoat removal and deep brushing.

To support these different coat types without repeating the same advice, you can tailor your routine with details like:

• Curly Coats: Schedule routine trims before mats appear rather than after, and separate small sections of fur with a comb after brushing.
• Short Coats: Use a grooming mitt after outdoor play to quickly remove dirt and loose hair before it spreads indoors.
• Double Coats: Plan extra undercoat sessions during the first warm weeks of spring and the first cool weeks of fall.
• Sensitive Skin Types: Introduce new products one at a time to see how your pet reacts before making them part of the regular routine.
• Senior Pets: Add shorter, more frequent grooming breaks so older joints and muscles are not stressed by long sessions.

When grooming aligns with your pet’s fur type, sessions feel smoother and more productive. You spend less time fighting tangles and more time supporting healthy skin, balanced oil distribution, and a coat that suits both your climate and your pet’s comfort.

 

Professional Grooming and At-Home Care

Professional grooming services play a key role in seasonal pet care, especially for pets with dense, curly, or hard-to-manage coats. Groomers use specialized tools, high-quality shampoos, and trained techniques to clean, trim, and de-shed without stressing the skin. They also have a good eye for early signs of issues like dry patches, unusual lumps, or redness that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Regular appointments offer structure to your pet’s overall coat care routine. By sticking to a schedule, you avoid “emergency” visits caused by mats or compacted undercoat. Groomers can adjust services based on the time of year, recommending deeper de-shedding during heavy coat changes and extra moisture support when the air is dry. This kind of tailored care helps protect both skin and coat as seasons shift.

While professional grooming sets a strong foundation, what you do at home in between visits matters just as much. Short brushing sessions, gentle cleaning around the eyes and ears, and quick checks for burrs or small tangles all support what your groomer has done. These habits are easier to maintain when you build them into your weekly routine rather than saving everything for one big grooming day.

Bathing at home is another part of the equation. Using products made for pets, rather than human shampoos, helps maintain the natural balance of oils on the skin. After a bath, thorough rinsing and careful drying prevent residue from causing itchiness. During winter, you may need slightly richer conditioning support; during summer, you may focus more on thorough rinses after swims or muddy adventures.

To round out a strong mix of professional and at-home care, try weaving in a few targeted habits:

• Set a Calendar Reminder: Mark grooming visits and at-home brushing days so coat care never falls too far behind.
• Keep a Grooming Basket: Store brushes, combs, pet-safe wipes, and nail tools in one place for quick access.
• Do Mini Checkups: During cuddle time, feel for bumps, flakes, or rough patches that might need attention.
• Adjust for Weather: Add a humidifier during very dry months or increase skin checks when outdoor allergens are high.
• Reward Calm Behavior: Use treats and praise when your pet relaxes during grooming, building positive associations over time.

When professional services and home routines work together, your pet benefits from consistent, thoughtful care rather than occasional catch-up. That balance supports healthy skin, a cleaner home, and a much more pleasant grooming experience for both of you.

Related: The Benefits of Regular Professional Grooming for Pets

 

Year-Round Comfort For Your Furry Companion

Seasonal pet care does not have to feel overwhelming. With a clear understanding of shedding cycles, coat types, and grooming options, you can create a routine that keeps your pet’s skin and coat healthy in every kind of weather. Regular brushing, smart bathing habits, and professional support when needed all add up to a happier, more comfortable companion.

At All Furred Up Wellness & Pet Spa, LLC, we help pet parents turn seasonal challenges into simple, repeatable routines. Our Special De-Shedding treatments, customized grooming services, and gentle handling are designed to support different coat types and seasonal needs. Think of our team as your partner in keeping your pet comfortable, clean, and confident throughout the year.

Book your appointment today and keep your furry friend comfortable, healthy, and protected all year round!

For inquiries or to speak with one of our grooming specialists, give us a call at (207) 214-9481. Together we’ll work towards giving your pet the lifestyle they deserve—free from discomfort and full of joy.