Summer is the perfect season for outdoor adventures, and many dogs love nothing more than cooling off with a swim. Toronto is lucky to have a few off-leash beaches where pups can swim and cool off during a heat wave. Whether it’s a day at the lake, a trip to the beach, a dip in the backyard pool, or a hike that ends with a splash in a creek, swimming is an excellent way to keep your dog active and cool during hot weather. While these summer swims are plenty of fun, it’s important to be prepared for the mess and the clean-up afterwards. Proper grooming after swimming helps keep your dog’s skin healthy, coat shiny, and ears free from infection. Here are a few simple steps to follow to ensure every swim ends as happily as it began.
Should You Clean Your Dog After Every Swim?
One of the most frequent questions pet owners have is whether they should bathe their dog after swimming. The answer depends on where your dog has been swimming and whether you are going home. If your dog has been in a clean, well-maintained swimming pool or clear freshwater, a thorough rinse with clean water is often enough to remove chlorine, dirt, and other debris. However, if your dog has been in muddy ponds or streams, stagnant or dirty water, algae-covered lakes, salt water at the beach, or in water with a strong odour, then your dog should be bathed as soon as possible, even if you are camping and aren’t home. Dirty water can contain bacteria, parasites, and other contaminants that may irritate your dog’s skin or become trapped in their coat and brought back home. Salt water and chlorine can also dry out their skin if left on too long. Giving your dog a gentle bath after these adventures helps remove anything that could cause discomfort.
Don’t Skip Ear Cleaning After Water Activities
One of the most important parts of dog grooming after swimming is caring for your dog’s ears. Water trapped inside the ear canal creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow, increasing the risk of painful ear infections. Dogs with floppy ears, long ear hair, or a history of ear infections are especially vulnerable. After every swim, be sure to dry the outer ears with a soft towel. If your veterinarian recommends it, use a dog-safe ear cleaner or drying solution after swimming. Remember never to insert cotton swabs into the ear canal, and after a swim, observe your dog for excessive scratching, head shaking, redness, unpleasant odours, or discharge from their ears. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly before the irritation develops into a more serious infection.
Brush Your Dog According to Their Coat Type
Brushing is an essential part of grooming your dog after swimming because wet coats easily attract sand, dirt, loose fur, and plant debris. It’s also an excellent opportunity to check your dog for ticks, cuts, burrs, foxtails, or irritated skin after spending time outdoors.
Keep in mind that not all dogs can be brushed the same. Different coat types require different grooming routines. Dogs with short coats usually only need a quick brushing with a grooming mitt or rubber brush once they’re dry. This helps remove loose hair while distributing natural oils throughout the coat. Medium-coated breeds benefit from a slicker brush or pin brush to remove loose undercoat and prevent tangles. Long-haired breeds should be brushed thoroughly after drying to prevent painful mats. Pay special attention behind the ears, under the legs, around the collar, and near the tail where tangles often develop. Lastly, double-coated breeds require regular brushing to remove loose undercoat and improve airflow through the coat. Avoid shaving these breeds in summer, as their coats help regulate body temperature and provide protection from the sun.
Choose the Right Grooming Products
When it’s time to bathe your dog after swimming, always choose products specifically formulated for dogs or for your dog’s skin type or conditions if they have health issues or allergies. Human shampoos have a different pH balance and may strip away the natural oils that protect your dog’s skin. Ideal shampoos for dogs are moisturizing, sulphate-free, free from harsh fragrances and dyes, and designed for sensitive skin if your dog is prone to irritation. Every dog is unique, and some may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. If you notice redness, itching, excessive scratching, or skin irritation after using a grooming product, discontinue use and speak with your veterinarian about a more suitable alternative.
Dry Your Dog Thoroughly and Pack a Grooming Kit if Possible
Proper drying is just as important as bathing. Moisture trapped in the coat can contribute to hot spots, skin irritation, unpleasant odours, and matting, especially during humid summer weather. Don’t forget to dry between the paw pads, under the belly, beneath the tail, and around skin folds where water tends to collect. Using absorbent towels will help remove as much moisture as possible before your dog can start air drying. Dogs with thick or dense coats often benefit from a pet dryer in a cool or low-heat setting to ensure the undercoat dries completely.
A little preparation makes summer adventures much easier, so consider keeping a grooming kit in your vehicle or near your back door that includes large absorbent towels, fresh drinking water, a grooming brush, dog-safe shampoo and ear cleaner (if recommended by your veterinarian). Having these essentials nearby means you’re always ready for muddy paws, sandy coats, or an unexpected swim during your summer adventures.
Make Summer Swimming Safe and Fun
Swimming is one of the best ways to keep your dog active, happy, and cool during the warmer months. By taking a few minutes to groom your dog after swimming, you can help prevent ear infections, reduce skin irritation, remove harmful debris, and keep their coat looking its best. Whether your dog loves splashing through puddles, diving into the lake, or playing fetch at the beach, a gentle post-swim grooming routine is one of the simplest ways to protect their health. For your dog training and dog walking needs this summer, check out our services at Citizen Canine.
