If you live in Abbotsford, you already know the drill: the rain shows up in fall and doesn’t let up until spring. Between soggy trails, muddy backyards, and puddles that seem to appear out of nowhere, rainy season is tough on a dog’s coat and paws. Here’s how to stay ahead of it.
Why Rainy Season Is Hard on Coats and Paws
Wet fur traps dirt and bacteria against the skin far more than a dry coat does, which can lead to that unmistakable “wet dog” smell sticking around longer than it should — or worse, skin irritation and hot spots if a damp coat doesn’t fully dry between walks. Paws take a beating too: constantly wet paw pads soften and become more prone to cracking, cuts, and infection, especially with repeated exposure day after day.
1. Dry Thoroughly After Every Walk
A quick towel-off isn’t always enough, especially for double-coated or long-haired breeds where moisture can sit trapped against the skin under the top layer. Focus on:
- Paws and between the toes — a common spot for moisture (and mud) to hide
- Belly and legs — lower to the ground means more splash-back
- Ears, especially floppy ones — damp ears are an infection risk
If your dog tolerates it, a low-heat blow dryer after a towel-off gets them fully dry faster than air-drying alone.
2. Check and Clean Paws Daily
During rainy season, a daily paw check is worth the extra minute. Look for:
- Mud or debris caught between paw pads
- Any cracking, redness, or tenderness
- Grass seeds or small debris that can work into the skin
Rinsing muddy paws with warm water (rather than just wiping) and drying thoroughly afterward helps prevent buildup that a towel alone won’t catch.
3. Brush Before the Coat Dries, Not After
Mud that dries into the coat is much harder to work out than mud that’s still damp. If your dog comes in muddy, a light brush-through while still slightly damp (after paws and belly are cleaned) helps prevent the mud from setting into mats — particularly around the legs, chest, and tail, where debris tends to collect.
4. Watch for Matting More Closely Than Usual
Wet fur mats faster than dry fur, and rainy season often means more frequent, less predictable dampness — a walk, then rain again before the coat’s fully dry, repeated over days. Between grooming appointments, keep an eye on friction areas (behind the ears, under the legs, around the collar), since mats that form here are the ones most likely to require a shave-down if left too long.
5. Consider a Rain Jacket or Booties for Extra-Wet Days
For dogs prone to skin sensitivity or paw issues, a light rain jacket or waterproof booties on especially wet days can cut down significantly on how much moisture and mud reach the coat and paws in the first place — less cleanup for you, less irritation for them.
Why Regular Grooming Matters Even More in Rainy Season
A consistent grooming schedule makes a real difference during the wettest months. Regular brushing and bathing keeps the coat in good enough condition that everyday dampness doesn’t turn into matting or skin issues, and a professional groomer can catch early paw or skin problems before they become bigger ones.
Muddy paws and a matted coat from the last few weeks of rain? → Book a Bath & Brush
Coat overdue for a proper trim? → Book a Full Groom