Healthy summer skin starts in winter

Spring is finally in sight! After months of cold weather, dark mornings and muddy walks, many dog owners are looking forward to longer days and more time outdoors with their pets.

But for some dogs, spring also marks the return of seasonal skin sensitivities. Itchy skin, irritated ears and digestive upsets are common concerns at this time of year - particularly for dogs that seem to struggle every spring and summer.

What’s often overlooked is when these issues begin. In our experience at Dorwest, how a dog copes during spring can be influenced weeks or even months before the usual signs show up. That’s why February plays such an important role in seasonal wellbeing.

Seasonal allergies in dogs: It’s not just about pollen

When we think about spring allergies in dogs, pollen is usually the first thing that comes to mind. And while environmental triggers do matter, they’re rarely the whole story.

Two dogs can be exposed to the same pollen, walk the same routes and play in the same fields, yet only one shows signs of seasonal sensitivity, such as spending the next few months scratching, licking, and chewing. The difference is not just exposure it is resilience. And your dog’s immune system can be the key factor.

Around 70–80% of a dog’s immune system is linked to gut health, according to research. Just as with humans, the gut microbiome plays a key role in how immune responses are regulated. When this complex ecosystem of bacteria is balanced, the immune system is generally better able to respond proportionately to environmental changes. When digestion is compromised, the body may be more likely to overreact. This is why preparation is so important. If we wait until our dogs are already itchy to support them, we are responding to a problem that has likely been building quietly for some time. Herbal supplements and vet prescriptions can help, but what we should be doing is looking at the underlying cause and starting to prepare early.

Why February matters for dogs with seasonal skin sensitivities

By the time spring arrives, many dogs are already carrying the effects of winter. Changes in routine, reduced exercise, richer diets and environmental stressors can all influence digestion and general wellbeing.

Winter can affect:

• Digestive efficiency
• Gut microbiome balance
• Hydration and stool quality
• Skin condition from dry indoor air and heating

By February, these small changes may have been quietly building for months — even if there are no obvious symptoms yet.

Supporting normal digestive and immune function before spring arrives helps give the body time to adapt naturally, rather than playing catch-up later.

The link between gut health and skin health in dogs

Digestive health is often overlooked when discussing itchy skin in dogs, but the two are closely linked.

A new research study from July 2025 suggests that the gut’s digestive processes and the microbiome interact closely with a dog’s immune system. When digestion is less efficient, this can affect how nutrients are absorbed and how the immune system interfaces with what passes through the gut. Research into the “gut–skin axis” in dogs indicates that these interactions may play a role in overall skin and immune health.

Supporting digestion all-year round

Our Tree Barks Powder is used by many of our customers to help maintain normal digestion by coating and soothing the stomach and intestinal lining, helping to slow the passage of food through the gut.

This gentle digestive support helps maintain:

• Normal nutrient absorption
• Digestive comfort
• A calmer digestive environment

It can be given daily for dogs with sensitive stomachs or given as needed when your dog gets an upset tummy. Try our Tree Barks Powder today or explore our range of digestive support for dogs!

Probiotics for dogs: Why timing and consistency matters

Probiotics are increasingly recognised as part of everyday digestive care, not just something to use after antibiotics or digestive upset.

Used consistently, probiotics help support a stable and healthy gut environment — but they take time to establish. This is why February is an ideal time to introduce them for dogs that struggle seasonally.

A balanced approach to gut support

Our Probiotic Plus for dogs combines prebiotics, probiotics and post-biotics in one capsule, expertly formulated to support normal gut balance as part of a daily routine.

Introduced early, this allows beneficial bacteria populations to establish gradually before seasonal changes place extra demands on the body.

Immune support for dogs

When talking about immune support for dogs, it’s important to focus on balance rather than stimulation. Dogs prone to seasonal skin issues don’t need their immune systems “boosted” — they need support to respond appropriately.

Traditional herbal ingredients have long been used as part of a steady, whole-body approach to maintaining normal immune and skin function.

Skin & coat support from within

Our Garlic & Fenugreek Tablets help maintain healthy skin and coat condition and provide nutritional support, including amino acids involved in normal skin renewal.

Used as part of a wider wellbeing routine, they can be introduced ahead of spring as a way to support the body during seasonal change. They can also be particularly effective when used in combination with our Green Releaf® tablets as they can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Try this bestselling duo today or explore our range of skin and coat supplements for dogs!

Why early preparation works better than last-minute support

One of the most common misconceptions around herbal and nutritional products is the expectation of instant results. In reality, normal digestive and immune processes change gradually.

• Gut bacteria populations need time to establish
• Digestive efficiency improves incrementally
• The body adapts best to slow, consistent change

February offers a valuable window to support these processes naturally, without rushing or reacting once discomfort has already appeared.

Rethinking spring skin care for dogs

Spring doesn’t have to be a time of frustration for dogs or their owners. By shifting the focus from reacting to symptoms to supporting foundations early, seasonal challenges can be approached more thoughtfully.

At Dorwest, we believe preparation is key. Supporting digestion, skin and immune balance ahead of spring helps dogs move into the warmer months with stronger foundations — ready to enjoy longer days, lighter evenings and more time outdoors.

If you'd like to learn more or receive personalised advice and recommendations for your pet's skin, please contact our team on 01308 897272 or drop us an email at advice@dorwest.com.