The Monsoon Mood Shift (For Dogs Too!)
The smell of wet mud, steaming chai, and cooler evenings might make monsoons your favourite time of year — but for your dog, it can be a very different story. Wet walks, dirty paws, skin infections, and even thunder anxiety can turn the rainy season into a stressful one for both pet and parent.
Whether you’re in rain-heavy cities like Mumbai and Chennai or experience sporadic showers in Delhi, Bangalore, or Hyderabad — monsoon dog care needs planning.
Let’s walk through a city-wise survival kit every Indian dog parent should have this season.
1. Raincoats That Actually Fit (and Work)
Let’s start with the most obvious and overlooked item — a dog raincoat.
Many Indian pet parents skip raincoats because they’ve had bad experiences: awkward sizing, poor waterproofing, or uncomfortable fabrics. But the right raincoat can make a huge difference.
What to look for:
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
- Quick-drying material
- Easy velcro or snap-on closures
- Coverage of chest (to prevent mud splash)
- Reflective strips for evening walks
City Tip:
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Mumbai & Chennai: Go for full-coverage raincoats with back flaps — rains are intense and often unpredictable.
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Delhi & Bangalore: A lighter version works if rain is occasional.
2. Paw Protection & Clean-Up Essentials
Rainy streets can expose your dog to harmful bacteria, sharp stones, and even hot spots.
Must-haves:
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Microfiber Towels: Fast-absorbent and soft on paws.
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Dog Booties: Optional, but useful in areas with poor drainage.
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Paw Balm: To moisturise cracked paws and form a barrier against infection.
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Anti-fungal Wipes: Keep these handy for a quick post-walk wipe-down.
City Tip:
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Hyderabad & Bangalore: If your area floods, invest in good dog shoes.
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Mumbai: Always wash and dry paws after every walk — fungal infections spread fast here.
3. Indoor Stimulation (When Walks Aren’t Possible)
Monsoon means cancelled walks and stir-crazy dogs. Especially for breeds that need exercise (looking at you, Indies, Labradors, and Beagles!).
Indoor boredom busters:
- Snuffle mats or homemade puzzle toys
- Tug-of-war or hide-and-seek games
- Frozen treat toys (like yogurt in a Kong)
- Short indoor training sessions for mental stimulation
Pro Tip: Set a rainy-day toy aside and only bring it out when it pours — instant excitement!
4. Skin & Coat Care to Beat Moisture Troubles
Damp fur can become a breeding ground for skin issues.
Watch out for:
- Foul smells
- Greasy coat
- Flaky skin or redness
- Excessive scratching
Solutions:
- Anti-fungal dog shampoos (use only when needed)
- Proper drying after walks or baths (use a hairdryer on low heat if your dog is okay with it)
- Regular brushing to prevent matting
City Tip:
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Chennai & Mumbai: Use antibacterial sprays on paws and belly areas for extra protection.
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Delhi: Dry weather in-between spells may mask symptoms — check under the fur regularly.
5. Thunder Anxiety & Monsoon Stress
Many dogs are sensitive to loud noises, and thunder can trigger anxiety.
Signs of stress:
- Hiding or shaking
- Whining or barking excessively
- Refusing food
- Destructive behaviour
Comfort ideas:
- Create a cosy den with blankets
- Use calming diffusers or vet-approved anxiety sprays
- Distract with treats, toys or gentle massage
- Stay calm yourself — your dog mirrors your mood!
City Tip:
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Bangalore & Hyderabad: Pre-thunder rain often builds slowly. Distract early if you sense it coming.
Bonus: Vet Visits & City-Specific Services
Rain = closed roads, traffic jams, and inaccessible clinics. Always be prepared.
Prep tips:
- Keep a list of nearby emergency vets with home visit options
- Stock up on regular meds and supplements
- Use tele-vet services for non-emergencies
City Tip:
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Delhi NCR: Use app-based vet services like Vetic or Wiggles.in for faster access.
Final Thoughts: Rain or Shine, You’ve Got This
Your dog may not understand the weather, but they trust you to help them through it. With just a few smart choices — a good dog raincoat, dry paws, fun toys, and lots of love — monsoon can become their favourite season too.
So let it rain. Patch the puddles. And let your furball enjoy every thunder, splash, and cuddle.