8 Tips for Preparing Your Dog for Spring

Spring is full of so much fun for dog parents, from time spent at your local dog park to long walks through your neighborhood to enjoy the sunshine. A new season means new memories to make with your furry friend.

Here are some essential tips to prepare your dog for the Spring so you both can enjoy all the season has to offer.

1. Schedule a Vet Check-Up

Winter months bring changes to your dog’s health, so a springtime vet visit is a good idea. Ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and discuss any necessary flea, tick, and heartworm worm preventatives. Many parasites reemerge in spring, so it’s important to keep your pup protected. Need a new vet? Be sure to read our other blog post, 5 Tips for Choosing A Vet to have a good relationship with your vet.

2. Refresh Grooming Routines

As the weather warms up, many dogs shed their winter coats. Regular brushing can help manage shedding and keep your dog’s coat looking shiny and healthy.

Consider a professional grooming session to clean their fur, trim their nails, and give them a fresh start for the season — a true spring cleaning. Don’t forget to check their ears for debris or signs of infection. Check out some of our favorite grooming products here.

3. Check Their Diet and Exercise

Spring is a great time to reassess your dog’s diet and exercise routine. Snow and winter weather can often limit their activity, so ease them back into a regular exercise schedule to avoid strain or injury.

Adjust their diet as needed based on your veterinarian’s recommendation to maintain a healthy weight and energy level.

4. Inspect Their Gear

Inspect your dog’s leash, collar, harness, and ID tags for wear and tear. Replace anything that looks frayed or damaged and give the items that are still in good condition a thorough deep cleaning.

As you get ready for more outdoor adventures, ensure your dog’s ID tags are up to date with your current information and that everything is still easily readable.

5. Protect Against Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies. Watch for signs like excessive scratching, licking, or watery eyes.

If your dog shows symptoms of allergies, consult your vet about appropriate treatments. In some cases, over-the-counter allergy medications can help, as well as regularly wiping their paws and coat after outdoor walks.

6. Give Your Dog’s Space a Deep Spring Cleaning

The changing of the season is the perfect opportunity to tackle those chores we often put off, like cleaning your dog’s bedding and toys. This not only helps keep your dog healthy by removing bacteria and allergens, but it also keeps your home smelling fresh for Spring.

Don’t forget to disinfect your dog’s food and water bowls as well!

7. Monitor for Pests

Spring brings out fleas, ticks, and other pests. In addition to using veterinarian-recommended preventatives to protect your pet, it’s important to regularly check your dog’s fur and skin, especially after spending time outdoors.

Thoroughly inspect your dog’s fur when you get home, and keep tweezers readily available for quickly removing ticks.

8. Be Mindful of Toxic Plants and Chemicals

Many spring plants and flowers, such as tulips, lilies, and daffodils, are toxic to dogs. Familiarize yourself with pet-safe plants and keep harmful ones out of reach. When outdoors, monitor your dog closely to make sure they’re not sneaking nibbles nearby plants on your daily walks.

In addition to spring flowers, other garden hazards can also be dangerous. Keep fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides out of reach of your dog — many include ingredients that are toxic to dogs if ingested.

Are You Ready for Spring with Your Dog?

Spring brings warmer weather and sunshine — perfect for enjoying with your dog after a long winter.

While there are springtime hazards to be aware of and new experiences to plan for, these tips will ensure your dog is well-prepared to enjoy all the joys of spring safely and comfortably. And be sure to check out our Spring Must Haves for the best this season, your go-to guide for the season's best!