Winter Grooming: Why Dogs Still Need Grooming in the Cold Months

Just because the weather’s turned icy doesn’t mean your dog’s grooming routine should go into hibernation. In fact, winter grooming is every bit as important, sometimes more so, than in the summer. At HotDogs Mobile Dog Grooming Salon, we see first-hand what happens when winter coat care is overlooked. Matted fur, irritated skin, and unhappy pups are just the start. That’s why our Johannesburg team stays busy through the chilly season, making sure local dogs stay clean, comfortable, and healthy in their winter coats.

Winter Grooming Matters – Here’s Why

You might think longer, fluffier coats protect your dog from the cold, and you’d be right… to a point. But that same coat can trap dirt, moisture, and shed fur, leading to painful mats and skin problems. Add in less outdoor activity and more time near heaters and blankets, and suddenly your dog’s skin is dry, flaky, and in desperate need of a proper clean and brush.

Our mobile dog parlour in Johannesburg brings everything we need right to your driveway – warm water, power, and all the tools to make sure your pup gets the winter care they deserve. No wet dogs in your car, no fussing in the cold. Just professional care from groomers who genuinely love what they do.

See how our Johannesburg mobile service works

 Matting Isn’t Just an Eyesore – It Hurts!

Mats tug at the skin, trap moisture, and can hide infections or parasites. They form more quickly in winter because your dog’s coat is thicker and less likely to shed naturally. Underneath all that fluff, your dog might be itchy and uncomfortable, even if they look cosy on the outside. Regular grooming keeps mats at bay and allows us to spot any underlying issues early, before they turn into vet visits.

HotDogs groomers are trained to gently de-mat where possible, and clip safely when necessary. Every breed is different, which is why breed-specific grooming is one of the things we do best. Whether you’ve got a Maltese, Yorkie, Retriever or Poodle, we know what coat maintenance looks like for your breed in winter.

Dry Winter Air? Your Dog Feels It Too

Cold air outside, dry air inside. It’s a nightmare for your dog’s skin. Dandruff, itchiness, and brittle coats are common during Johannesburg’s colder months. A good wash with gentle, nourishing products goes a long way in keeping the skin balanced. Our shampoos and conditioners are specially selected for the season. No supermarket products – only pet salon-grade grooming essentials.

During a mobile dog grooming session, we also check ears, trim nails, and clean paw pads, which often get rougher from walking on chilly surfaces. It’s about complete care, not just a snip and go.

Need a reliable mobile dog parlour in Sandton or Fourways? We’ve got teams ready and waiting.

But My Dog Doesn’t Go Out as Much in Winter…

That’s exactly why grooming is essential. Less activity means less natural wearing down of nails and more lounging in dusty beds or blankets, which can cause coat issues. Some dogs shed more in winter as their undercoats adjust – especially if they spend time inside heated homes. Brushing and bathing help get rid of loose hair, reducing the mess in your house and keeping your dog comfortable.

Even if you’re only popping out for short walks in the morning frost, salt and dirt from pavements can irritate paw pads. Our groomers inspect and treat those areas to prevent cracking and soreness.

Book a grooming session in Lonehill or Fourways Gardens and see the difference a proper winter groom makes.

 We’re More Than Just Dog Washers—We’re Dog Lovers

At HotDogs, we treat every pooch like they’re our own. We’re not just the biggest mobile grooming company in South Africa, we’re the most trusted. We’ve built our name on being reliable, friendly, and great at what we do. Our staff are all qualified, and we take the time to understand each dog’s needs and temperament.

Whether you’ve got a nervous rescue, an excitable puppy, or an older dog who needs a gentler approach, we adapt our service accordingly. And because we come to you, your dog stays in their comfort zone—no noisy parlours or stressful car rides.

Find out what to expect with mobile grooming in Johannesburg and why more pet owners are making the switch.

Let HotDogs groom your Dog!

Breed-Specific Grooming Isn’t Just a Bonus—It’s Essential

Not every dog needs the same haircut. A Schnauzer has very different grooming needs from a Labrador. Some dogs need tidy trims, others need their double coat managed with deshedding tools. Our groomers are trained in breed-specific techniques, from correct blade lengths to scissor finishes and coat-specific shampoos.

We keep up with breed standards and preferences, but we also listen to owners. Want a neatened-up teddy bear cut for your Shih Tzu? Or a short, clean trim for your Yorkie’s hygiene? We’ve got you covered.

Chat to us about our breed-specific services and how we tailor each groom.

 Why So Many Joburg Pet Owners Choose HotDogs

We’ve raised the bar in mobile pet grooming. From the moment our branded grooming van pulls up outside your home, it’s all about care, consistency, and comfort. We understand that you’re trusting us with a furry family member, and we take that responsibility seriously.

✓ Fully equipped, heated mobile dog salon
✓ Warm water and electricity onboard
✓ Gentle handling from experienced groomers
✓ Reliable appointment times
✓ Easy, online booking and responsive support
✓ Competitive pricing – no surprises

 Grooming at Your Doorstep – With All the Comforts

We’ve taken all the best parts of a professional grooming salon and packed them into a fully equipped, temperature-controlled van. There’s warm water, electricity, and everything our groomers need to give your dog the care they deserve, without you ever having to leave the house.

Experienced Groomers Who Genuinely Care

Every dog is different, and we get that. Whether your pup’s a nervous rescue or a social butterfly, our groomers know how to handle them with patience and kindness. We’re not in a rush. We take the time to make sure every dog feels calm, respected, and cared for throughout the groom.

 No More Waiting Around or Wasted Time

We show up when we say we will, simple as that. Our booking process is straightforward, and if you ever need help, our support team is quick to respond. No hold music. No vague time slots. Just reliable, hassle-free service.

 Fair Pricing, No Funny Business

You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for upfront. No hidden fees or last-minute surprises. Our pricing is competitive because we believe quality dog grooming in Johannesburg should be accessible to everyone, especially when it’s brought straight to your front door.

Need to Book? We’re Just a Click Away

Whether you’ve got a fluffy Maltese that mats in a week or a short-coated dog that still needs a good bath and nail trim, we’re here for it. Book online today or give us a ring – we’d love to meet your dog and show you why so many local pet owners stick with HotDogs for life.Top of FormBottom of Form

Got questions or want to schedule your winter groom? Call us or send us a message now.

Don’t Put Off That Winter Groom – Your Dog Deserves Better

Cold weather grooming isn’t just a vanity thing. It’s about health, comfort, and making sure your dog feels great under all those layers. If it’s been a few weeks (or longer) since their last groom, it’s probably time to book. We’ll come to you, we’ll treat your pup like royalty, and we’ll leave them looking and feeling like the best version of themselves.

Ready to book a winter dog grooming session in Johannesburg? Let’s make it happen. Give us a call or get in touch online and we’ll do the rest.

Read more here:

• Dog Grooming Salon in Fourways Gardens & Lonehill
• Pet Grooming in Sandton & Sunninghill
• Mobile Dog Parlour in Bryanston and Randburg
• Puppy Grooming in Johannesburg – Call HotDogs
• Affordable Dog Wash Prices in Johannesburg – HotDogs 
• Understanding Coeat Care 
• Preparing your dog for a stress-free grooming experience