How to Dry Your Dog After a Wet, Muddy Walk
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British winters mean wet walks, muddy legs and a damp dog on the sofa. Here's a simple routine to get your dog clean, dry and comfortable - and keep your car and home that way too.
Why Drying Your Dog Properly Matters
A wet dog loses heat quickly, especially small, short-coated and older dogs. Damp fur left to dry slowly can also smell, and mud and grit trapped between the toes can irritate their paws. A few minutes of drying after a walk keeps them warm and comfortable.
A Simple After-Walk Routine
1. Before you get in the car
Give your dog a quick rub down with a towel or drying mitts (from £25) to take the worst of the water and mud off their legs and belly. If they travel on a seat or in the boot, a waterproof walkies mat or boot liner protects the car and wipes clean.
2. Pop on a drying robe
A drying robe does the hard work for you. Our Luxury Bamboo Dog Drying Robe (from £40) is made from soft, absorbent bamboo towelling and made to your dog's measurements, so it wraps them properly rather than slipping off. Put it on in the car or at the door and let it soak up the water while they settle.
3. Paws, ears and belly
- Paws: wipe or rinse each paw and dry between the toes, where mud and grit collect.
- Ears: gently dry the outside of the ears, especially for long-eared breeds.
- Belly and legs: short-legged dogs pick up the most mud here.
4. Let mud dry before brushing
Trying to rub off wet mud often pushes it deeper into the coat. Once your dog is dry, most of it will brush out easily.
5. Keep them warm while they finish drying
Let them settle somewhere warm and draught-free, like their bed. If you use a hairdryer, keep it on a cool setting and at a distance - many dogs dislike them.
Prevention: Less Mud to Start With
A coat keeps much of the wet and mud off in the first place. A four-leg fleece jumpsuit covers the legs and belly, and a waterproof Rainfleece coat keeps the back dry. Wondering whether your dog needs one? Read Does My Dog Need a Coat?
And when the coats themselves need a clean, see how to wash and care for a fleece dog coat.
Drying FAQs
Is a drying robe better than a towel?
A robe keeps working while your dog settles, and stops them shaking water all over the car or kitchen. Many owners use drying mitts for a quick rub down, then a robe.
How long should a dog wear a drying robe?
Until they're mostly dry - usually the journey home or a short while after you get in. Take it off once they're dry so they don't overheat.
Can I personalise a drying robe?
Yes - our bamboo drying robes and mitts can be embroidered.
Browse our full Drying and Grooming collection.
Hugo and Ted: handcrafted for dogs and their people, made in Britain.