The long days of summer have officially faded into the crisp mornings of autumn. Summer finished at the end of September and before October had even begun, we’d experienced our first frost. Winter is well on its way, for sure.
Many of us still relish the seasonal transition into autumn. I for one love setting out on that first outing in wellies, wrapped up warm to enjoy a woodland walk with our three dogs. As green turns to gold and red, everything looks so beautiful. Although it must be said, I am less keen on those gloomy dark mornings before work and the obligatory evening expeditions with the headtorch. And with autumnal adjustment also comes an inevitable surge of new-season ‘lurgy’, fuelled by fluctuating temperatures…and for us, the kids being returned back into the petri dish of school! If we all manage to fight off a cold before Christmas, we’re doing well.
Just as the seasons affect us, the change from summer into autumn and winter brings its own challenges for our dogs, too. From skin and coat issues to dips in immunity and changes in behaviour, the colder months can unsettle even the happiest hounds. A keen fair-weather walker, Hilda, our eldest whippet, has already decided that early morning walks in the dark are not for her. It’s certainly an inconvenient stance when you have three of them to walk, but taking cues from your dogs is actually really important. Rather than exacerbate any senior dog aches and pains, we just make sure Hilda gets her stroll in a bit later. Once the temperature has warmed up, it puts far less strain on those stiffening joints of hers.
For those of us working in pet care, acknowledging and understanding seasonal shifts is especially important so that we’re able to support dog-owning customers, as well as ensure that our own pets stay comfortable, healthy, and happy into the darker, colder months of the year.
Seasonal itching and dryness
One of the most common issues we hear about from Dorwest customers during autumn and winter months is linked to skin health. Central heating dries the air indoors, and this, combined with cold, damp weather outside, can leave many dogs with itchy, flaky, or irritated skin.
Some breeds with finer coats may be affected more commonly, but even hardy types can experience seasonal skin
flare-ups. Owners often mistake the signs for allergies or parasites, when the culprit
may simply be the sudden change in humidity. Dogs may scratch more, develop dandruff-like flakes, or lick paws excessively and, if left unchecked, any discomfort can soon escalate, causing hotspots or secondary infections. The skin is the largest and one of the most important organs in the body, and along with the coat, often gives the first indication of a decline in overall condition or an underlying health problem.
Independent retailers may want to guide owners towards a gentle grooming routine, alongside products designed to nourish the skin and coat. The best products are ones that soothe the skin without stripping natural oils, whether that’s a supplement rich in omega oils or something herbal that soothes the itch. Our herbal skin range of remedies is formulated to help keep your pet’s skin and coat in excellent condition year-round from the inside out, by soothing any itchy skin, encouraging good healthy coat growth, and strengthening and maintaining the body’s defences.
Immunity under pressure
Just as us humans seem more prone to coughs and colds when we move towards winter, dogs, too, can experience dips in their immune resilience. The stress of fluctuating temperatures, less exposure to sunlight, and the general strain of adapting to seasonal change can all take their toll.
In households where walks may be shorter due to bad weather or darker evenings, some dogs may also get less exercise and mental stimulation, which in turn can affect overall well-being. A robust immune system is essential for helping them to fight off seasonal bugs and maintain energy. Herbal remedies with immune-supportive properties, alongside a balanced diet, can play a crucial role here.
Dorwest Keeper’s Mix dietary supplement is a popular purchase all year round, but particularly at this time of year. Specially formulated using a blend of eight herbs, it provides natural antioxidants (to neutralise free radicals), vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll, fibres, and complex bioactive compounds to help maintain all-round health, supporting vital organs and maintaining a natural balance in your pet’s body, as well as encouraging a thick and healthy coat.
Stiff joints and slower movements
Many humans are all too familiar with the effect that damp, cold weather can have on our own joints – and the same goes for our more mature dogs! The chill of autumn and winter can bring more than just a few shivers for them. Arthritis and joint stiffness are commonly exacerbated, and owners may notice the little telltale signs; their dog hesitating at the bottom of the stairs, rising more slowly from their bed, or being reluctant to join in on longer walks once the seasons change.
Subtle shifts in behaviour are important to have on your radar, as many of us might mistakenly assume our dog is simply slowing down. Targeted support for mobility – from appropriate exercise regimes to natural joint supplements – can make a dramatic difference to quality of life and pet retailers are in a prime position to educate customers about recognising these early signs and provide options to help keep dogs moving comfortably.
We teamed up with vets to formulate MoveWellia, a unique blend of natural active compounds with joint supportive properties, including the joint health superstar, Boswellia, which supports natural anti-inflammatory pathways in
the body.
Mood and behavioural changes
It’s not just the body that feels the change of seasons, as most humans will testify, the mind can, too. As I’ve already mentioned, shorter daylight hours mean dogs often get less time outdoors, particularly if their owners work long hours. A lack of stimulation and reduced sunlight exposure can lead to restlessness, boredom, and even low mood.
In some dogs, the hustle and bustle of the festive season can add another layer of stress. New visitors, loud noises, and disrupted routines may leave pets feeling unsettled. Calming aids, safe retreats within the home, and owner awareness are all key to ensuring dogs feel secure and content as the household rhythm changes.
Supporting dogs through the seasonal shift
The transition from summer to autumn and winter is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to mean discomfort for our dogs. With the right knowledge, owners can anticipate most of the challenges colder months can bring and make small, meaningful changes to keep their companions thriving.
For independent retailers with close customer relationships that they’re keen to nurture, it’s another golden opportunity to educate and stock solutions that address any seasonal concerns, and position themselves as trusted sources of advice.
Seasonal support tips at a glance
Skin and coat care
Encourage regular grooming and suggest natural supplements or shampoos that nourish and protect against dryness.
Immune support
Remind customers that shorter days and damp weather can affect immunity, and offer gentle herbal or nutritional boosters.
Joint health
Spot the signs of stiffness in older dogs and provide advice on maintaining mobility through diet, supplements, and appropriate exercise.
Behavioural well-being
Promote calming options and enrichment ideas to counter reduced daylight, festive disruptions, and boredom.
Educate and empathise
Use seasonal displays, in-store conversations, and social media to share practical advice. Customers value retailers who anticipate their dogs’ needs at this time of year.
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