Dog Dry Skin in Winter: Causes, Dandruff, and How to Help Your Pup Feel Better

Winter weather can be ruff (in dog speak) on your dog's skin.

As temperatures drop and humidity falls, many dogs experience dryness, flaking, and itching that weren't an issue during warmer months.

If you've noticed white flakes on your dog's bedding, more scratching than usual, or a dull, itchy coat, you're not alone. Dry skin and dandruff are common winter issues for dogs, but they're often manageable with the right approach.

This guide explains why winter affects your dog's skin, how to recognize the signs early, when a vet visit is warranted, and what you can safely do at home to help your dog stay comfortable all season.

Why Do Dogs Get Dry Skin in Winter?

Yes. Dogs absolutely get dry skin in winter, and it usually comes down to environmental stress on the skin barrier.

Cold outdoor air contains very little moisture, and indoor heating dries the air even further. This combination pulls hydration from the skin, weakening its protective barrier. Add exposure to cold wind, snow, and de-icing salts, and even healthy skin can become dry, flaky, and irritated.

Signs Your Dog Has Dry Skin or Dandruff in Winter

Not all dogs show dryness the same way. Common signs include:

• White flakes on the coat (dandruff)
  Often most noticeable on bedding or dogs with dark coats.
• Dry or flaky skin along the back or spine
  You may feel rough patches while petting.
• Increased itching or licking
  Scratching, nibbling, or chewing.
• Red, irritated, or scaly areas
  Skin may appear inflamed or sensitive.
• Dull coat with increased shedding
  Healthy coats lose shine when the skin underneath is compromised.

Puppies can also develop dry skin in winter, and flakes tend to stand out more on black or dark-coated dogs.

Common Causes of Dry Winter Skin in Dogs

Winter dryness includes a number of factors all combining, such as:

Cold Air Outside, Dry Heat Inside

Low humidity, heating vents, fireplaces, and space heaters all dry out the skin and weaken its natural barrier.

Overbathing or Harsh Shampoos

Bathing too frequently - especially with oil stripping shampoos - removes protective oils and makes flaking worse.

Allergies and Environmental Triggers

Indoor allergens like dust mites, molds, and reactions to cleaning products can flare when dogs spend more time inside.

Parasites, Infections, and Medical Conditions

Fleas, mites, yeast, bacterial infections, or hormonal disorders (such as hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease) can mimic or worsen dry skin.

If dryness is accompanied by odor, hair loss, sores, or thick crusts, a veterinary exam is important.

Nutrition and Skin Health

Poor quality diets or insufficient essential fatty acids can impair the skin barrier and worsen flaking.

When Dry Skin Is a Vet Issue (Not Just in Winter Weather)

Most winter weather-related dryness improves with gentle care and time. However, some symptoms suggest something more than seasonal skin changes. Veterinarians frequently note that skin changes are one of the earliest signs that something else in the body is out of balance.

The skin is closely connected to immune health, hormones, digestion, and nutrition so ongoing or severe skin issues deserve a closer look.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following that don't resolve seasonally:

• Open sores, bleeding, or scabs
• Red, hot, or painful patches
• Sudden hair loss or bald spots
• Intense itching that won't settle
• Skin changes paired with shifts in appetite, weight, or energy
• Puppies with persistent or severe flaking

In these cases, dry skin or dandruff may be an important signal, not just a surface issue - and identifying the underlying cause early can make treatment simpler and more effective.

At-Home Ways to Help Dog Dry Skin in Winter

The goal is to support the skin barrier - not strip it further.

Adjust the Environment

Using a humidifier can help restore moisture to dry indoor air. Depending on the size of your house, you may need multiple humidifiers to keep the humidity up, especially when it is cold. Since warm air holds moisture better than cold air, keeping the temperature warm will also help.

Brush Regularly

Gentle brushing removes flakes and distributes natural oils, supporting healthier skin and coat.

Bathe Less Often — and Choose a Shampoo That Supports the Skin Barrier

In winter, over-bathing with detergent-based, synthetic shampoo is one of the fastest ways to make dry skin worse. Cold weather already challenges the skin barrier, and frequent washing with the wrong shampoo - especially those with harsh or detergent-heavy formulations - strip away the oils dogs rely on to stay comfortable.

That’s why winter bathing should be intentional, not routine.

When a bath is needed, we recommend using a true organic dog shampoo that cleans effectively without disrupting the skin barrier. At 4-Legger, our USDA Certified Organic shampoos are formulated particularly for dogs with sensitive or dry skin, using minimal, purposeful ingredients and no synthetic detergents, fragrances, artificial ingredients  or fillers.

For dogs dealing with winter dryness, flaking, or itchiness, our moisturizing and sensitive skin formulas are designed to cleanse gently while supporting the skin’s natural balance — rather than stripping it away and creating a cycle of irritation.

How often your dog should be bathed in winter depends on several factors, including coat type, activity level, and underlying skin health. We cover this in detail - with winter-specific guidance - in our article on how often you should bathe your dog in winter.

Human shampoos should always be avoided. ALWAYS. The pH range on human shampoos is far more acidic than what a dog’s skin should be exposed to and is never a good option.  Even “gentle” baby shampoo products are formulated for humans - not dogs and can further disrupt a dog’s already stressed winter skin.

Add a Winter-Safe Moisturizing Step

In winter, many dogs benefit from light, frequent moisture support between baths - especially when dry indoor air and cold weather are stressing the skin barrier.

Rather than applying heavy oils, which can clog pores or trap debris, we recommend using a dog-safe, naturally moisturizing spray designed specifically for canine skin.

4-Legger USDA Certified Organic dog moisturizing and deodorizing sprays are formulated to hydrate and soothe dry skin without disrupting the skin's natural balance. Our sprays are made with functional, minimal ingredients and can be used between baths to calm flaking, support the skin barrier, and keep the coat comfortable - without masking underlying issues or creating buildup. 

For dogs dealing with winter dryness, itchiness, or flaking, a gentle moisturizing spray can be an effective way to support skin health while allowing the skin to function as it should.

Avoid applying human lotions to your dog's coat. Products designed for human skin don't align with canine skin biology and can make skin issues worse especially over time.

Protect Paws and Belly from Winter Irritants

In winter, your dog's paws and belly take the most abuse. Snow, ice, and de-icing salts don't just dry the skin - they can cause cracking, irritation, and inflammation that make underlying skin issues worse.

After winter walks, gently wipe your dog's paws and belly to remove salt and debris. For dogs exposed to snow, ice, or treated sidewalks regularly, adding a protective balm can make a significant difference.

At 4-Legger, our USDA Certified Organic Healing Balm is formulated to create a breathable barrier that helps protect and soothe dry, stressed skin on paws, bellies, noses, and other exposed areas.

Unlike heavy petroleum-based products, our nose and paw balm is designed to support the skin barrier without trapping moisture, dirt, or bacteria underneath. It is made with a plant-based wax which is thinner and allows the skin to “breathe” and also the sweat glands in the paws to continue to function properly.

Applied before walks, it can help shield sensitive skin from salt and cold. Applied after, it helps calm irritation and support recovery - especially during harsh winter conditions.

What to Feed a Dog With Dry Skin in Winter

Nutrition plays a critical role in skin health - but it's not just about fat content. Hydration, fat quality, and ingredient sourcing all matter, especially in winter.

Why Diet and Hydration Matter for Skin Health

Skin is the body's largest organ, and it depends on adequate hydration, high-quality protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients to maintain a strong barrier. In winter, many dogs drink less water, eat drier foods, and lose moisture to dry indoor air - all of which can slow skin repair and worsen flaking or itchiness.

Supporting skin health starts with ensuring your dog is well hydrated and receiving nutrition that supports whole-body balance, not just surface symptoms.

Simple hydration support may include:

• Encouraging water intake with fresh, clean water
• Adding moisture-rich foods or mixing in warm water to meals
• Avoiding excessively dry or highly processed diets

Essential Fats: Quality Matters More Than Quantity

Fatty acids help support the skin barrier and regulate inflammation - but not all omega supplements are equal.

Rather than generic fish oils (which can oxidize easily and may contain contaminants if poorly sourced), many pet parents and integrative veterinarians and nutrition practitioners prefer clean, stable fat sources and carefully vetted omega-3 products.

Two options commonly used for skin support include:

• Cocotherapy MCT Coconut Oil
  MCT oil provides a clean, easily digestible fat source that supports energy metabolism and skin health without the oxidation concerns associated with some fish oils. It can be a gentle option for dogs with sensitive systems when used appropriately.
• Adored Beast Potent Sea Omega-3 Oils
  These omega-3 oils are formulated specifically for dogs, with attention to sourcing, purity, and stability - factors that matter when supporting skin and immune health.

As with any supplement, dosing should always be confirmed with your veterinarian, especially for dogs with medical conditions or those taking medications.

Choosing the Right Food for Dogs With Dry Skin If you're wondering what to feed a dog with dry skin, look beyond marketing claims and focus on fundamentals:

• Clearly identified, high-quality animal proteins
• Balanced, purposeful fats - not excessive or poorly sourced oils
• Low carbohydrate foods - learn how to calculate carb content. It’s not visible on the label
• Minimal fillers and artificial additives
• Formulations designed to support skin, coat, and digestive health
• Choosing treats designed to support skin and coat health

Natural Remedies for Dog Dandruff and Dry Skin: What's Safe?

When it comes to dog dandruff and dry skin, many pet parents turn to "natural remedies."

That instinct makes sense - but products that advertise themselves to be natural doesn't automatically mean they actually are truly natural and appropriate for canine skin.

Veterinarians and integrative practitioners generally agree that the safest approaches focus on supporting the skin barrier and overall health, rather than trying to "treat" flakes directly. Only managing symptoms will not uncover or address the underlying cause needed for longterm relief.

Approaches That Are Often Helpful

• Skin-barrier-supportive bathing and grooming
  Using a truly gentle, dog-formulated shampoo and avoiding over-bathing allows the skin to recover instead of being repeatedly stripped of natural and necessary oils.
• Light, dog-safe moisturizing support
  Products specifically formulated for dogs - such as moisturizing sprays or balms designed to be breathable - can help calm dry skin without clogging pores or trapping debris.
• Nutrition and hydration support
  Adequate hydration and carefully sourced fats can support skin repair from the inside out, which is often more effective than topical fixes alone.

Approaches That Commonly Cause Problems

• Undiluted or improperly diluted essential oils
• Low quality essential oils that cause more skin irritation
• Human anti-dandruff shampoos
  These are formulated for human scalp conditions and human skin pH and can worsen irritation in dogs.
• Heavy oils applied over the entire coat
  Thick oils can trap dirt and bacteria, interfere with normal skin function, and make underlying issues harder to identify.

Rather than chasing a "quick cure" for flakes, the most effective natural approach is to support the skin as part of the whole body - and to pay attention when skin changes persist, as they may be signaling something deeper.

Can Puppies Have Dry Skin or Dandruff in Winter?

It is very common for puppies to develop dry skin or dandruff during their first winter.

Puppy skin is thinner and more delicate than adult dog skin, and the skin barrier is still developing. They do not yet have the developmental skill to regulate their core body temperature and bathing in winter must include environmental controls to protect them.

Winter dryness in puppies can be influenced by several factors, including:

• Over-bathing, especially after muddy or snowy outdoor play
• Synthetic dog shampoos, including human products or dog shampoos not formulated for sensitive skin
• Parasites, such as mites, which can cause flaking that looks like dandruff
• Diet transitions, as puppies advance between foods or adjust to new protein and fat levels

Because puppies are still growing, their skin is often less forgiving of mistakes. What looks like mild flaking can escalate quickly if the skin barrier becomes compromised.

Gentle grooming, intentional bathing, and the use of gentle puppy shampoo formulated for sensitive or developing skin are especially important at this stage.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Dry Skin in Dogs

What can I use on my dog for dry skin in winter?

In winter, focus on products that support the skin barrier rather than strip it. A gentle, organic dog shampoo formulated for sensitive or dry skin is a good starting point, followed by light moisture support between baths.

At 4-Legger, our USDA Certified Organic shampoos are made without synthetic detergents, fragrances, or fillers that can worsen winter dryness. Between baths, our moisturizing sprays help hydrate and soothe skin without clogging pores or creating buildup.

Avoid human shampoos or lotions, even if they're labeled "gentle."  For dogs, they are not.

Consider “low-tech” methods such as a shirt or sweater if your dog doesn’t mind.  That helps to keep a low level of moisture at the skin which can minimize dryness.

What can I give my dog for dry, itchy skin?

Dry, itchy skin often improves when you address both the outside and the inside.

Topically, use dog-safe shampoos and moisturizing sprays designed to protect the skin barrier. Internally, hydration and carefully sourced fats can support skin repair. Many pet parents prefer clean, stable fat sources and high-quality omega-3 supplements formulated specifically for dogs.

Always confirm supplements and dosing with your veterinarian - especially if your dog has underlying health conditions.

How do I get rid of my dog's dandruff in winter?

Dandruff is often a sign that the skin barrier is stressed. Reducing over-bathing, switching to a truly gentle dog shampoo, improving indoor humidity, and supporting skin health with proper nutrition can make a significant difference.

Rather than chasing flakes with harsh products, focus on restoring balance. If dandruff persists, worsens, or is accompanied by odor, hair loss, or intense itching, a veterinary exam is important.

Does cold weather cause dandruff in dogs?

Cold weather itself doesn't cause dandruff, but low humidity, indoor heating, and winter exposure can dry the skin and trigger flaking - especially in dogs with sensitive skin.

Winter dandruff often reflects a combination of environmental stress, grooming habits, and nutrition rather than a single cause.

Should I change my dog's food if they have dry skin?

Sometimes - but food changes should be thoughtful and gradual. Skin health depends on hydration, protein quality, fat quality, and overall ingredient integrity.

If your dog's dry skin doesn't improve with topical care alone, evaluating diet and hydration is a logical next step.

How long does it take for my dog's dry skin to improve?

Mild winter dryness often improves within a few weeks once the skin barrier is supported consistently. More significant or long-standing skin issues take longer and may require veterinary guidance.

If you don't see gradual improvement - or if symptoms worsen - it's important to look deeper, as skin issues are often an early signal that something else in the body needs attention.