Springtime in Portland brings lush greenery, blooming flowers, and, of course, a lot of rain. While we love the beauty of the season, it can also mean more messes when it comes to our dogs. Snow turning to slush, muddy paws, wet fur, and dirt trails can quickly turn your home into a disaster zone. But don’t worry, keeping your dog clean during the spring months doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a little preparation and some simple steps, you can ensure your dog stays clean all season long without a lot of extra effort.
Preparing for Outdoor Adventures
To minimize mess, you’ll want to be prepared for outdoor spring adventures. Consider getting your dog some rain boots and a waterproof raincoat to keep their paws and coat dry. These accessories are beneficial when you know your dog will be walking through muddy areas. Spring is also a great time to trim your dog’s fur. A shorter coat reduces the amount of dirt it can trap, and it also makes it easier to clean up after walks. If your dog has a long coat, regular grooming is essential to avoid mats and tangles.
Additionally, if you can, avoid taking your dog on long walks through muddy fields or wet grass. Instead, try to stick to paved trails or other areas that are less likely to get your dog dirty. If you have a backyard, consider creating a designated play area for your dog to keep them from getting too messy. This makes cleanup easier and limits the amount of mess they can make.
Cleaning After Being Outdoors
Once the walk or outdoor playtime is over and you’re back indoors, make sure to clean your dog’s paws immediately. This area is most likely to collect mud and wiping them down with a damp cloth or towel can keep things clean. Don’t forget to wipe your dog’s face and belly as well, as these areas can also collect dirt, as well as twigs, leaves and grass, especially if they have been rolling around. If your dog is wet from rain or mud, it’s important to dry them thoroughly to prevent them from getting cold. A towel works for most dogs, but if you have a dog with a thick coat, a blow dryer on the lowest setting can be useful. Setting up a paw wash station by your door, with warm water and towels, can help make cleanup quick and easy.
Keeping Your Home Clean During Spring
Even with the best outdoor practices, your dog may still bring some dirt into the house. To minimize this, regularly clean your dog’s bowls, leashes, toys, and any outdoor gear. These items can collect dirt and bacteria, so it’s important to wash them often. Placing mats near your doors can help catch dirt before it enters your home. During the rainy season and shedding season, frequent mopping and vacuuming are essential. Regular cleaning will help keep your home tidy and prevent dirt and fur from building up.
Staying Indoors
Sometimes, Portland’s rain, mud and springtime weather are just too much to handle, and it's better to keep your dog indoors. But even inside, dogs can find creative ways to make a mess, especially if they have excess energy. This is where having a plan for indoor activities becomes important. Engage your dog with interactive toys, puzzles, or playtime to keep them entertained without needing to go outside.
If you’re not able to provide enough mental and physical stimulation at home, consider sending your dog to Dogtopia Daycare. With our supervised indoor playrooms, your pup can get the exercise and socialization they need while staying clean and dry. It’s a great solution for rainy days when you want to avoid the mess but still ensure your dog gets plenty of fun and activity. Stop by one of our five locations to schedule your pup for a Meet & Greet!