Monsoon hits different in India. For us it's chai and petrichor. For our dogs? It's wet fur, muddy paws, soggy bedding, and a smell that no amount of air freshener can fully fix.
But more than the mess, the monsoon season actually brings real health risks for pets — skin infections, ear problems, leptospirosis from contaminated puddles, and respiratory infections from damp environments. If you're a dog parent anywhere from Mumbai to Bangalore to Kolkata, here's what to watch for and how to handle it.
The Biggest Monsoon Risks for Dogs
1. Fungal and bacterial skin infections
Wet fur that doesn't dry properly is a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Dogs with thick or double coats — Huskies, GSDs, Golden Retrievers — are especially prone. You'll notice itching, redness, or a sour smell if an infection's developing.
2. Leptospirosis
This is the serious one. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through water contaminated with infected animal urine — and during monsoon, waterlogged streets become a hazard. Make sure your dog is vaccinated (the Lepto vaccine is part of the annual booster in India). Keep them away from flooded areas and stagnant water.
3. Ear infections
Water in the ears + humidity = perfect conditions for an ear infection. Floppy-eared breeds like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and Labradors are most at risk. Dry ears thoroughly after every walk in the rain.
4. Paw pad irritation
Wet pavements, waterlogged mud, and standing water soften the paw pads and make them prone to cuts and infections. Wipe paws down properly after every outing.
What Actually Helps
A good raincoat
For dogs that walk in the rain regularly, a proper raincoat is genuinely worth it — not just for dryness but for reducing how much cleanup you're dealing with after every walk. A good fit matters: it should cover the back and belly, not restrict movement, and be easy to put on without turning into a wrestling match.
Our Trixie Tarbes transparent dog raincoat is one of our most popular monsoon picks — lightweight, adjustable, and actually lets your dog move freely. Visibility panels also mean they can see around them without panicking.
Dry them properly
Don't just towel the top coat. Get in underneath, especially the belly, armpits, and between the toes. A microfibre towel works much faster than a regular bath towel. If your dog tolerates a hair dryer, use it on a cool or low setting to get the undercoat fully dry.
Wipe paws every single time
Keep a towel and a small bucket of clean water by the door. Wipe paws before your dog walks into the house. During peak monsoon, a diluted betadine soak (one part betadine to thirty parts water) for 30 seconds before wiping is worth the extra minute.
Keep bedding dry
Wash and dry your dog's bedding more often in monsoon. Damp bedding is where most skin issues start. If you're in a humid city, a raised bed that allows air circulation underneath makes a real difference.
Stick to boiled or filtered water
Keep their drinking water clean during monsoon — same precautions as for us.
Walks During Heavy Rain
If it's pouring heavily, it's okay to skip the walk or shorten it significantly. Indoor play, training sessions, and puzzle feeders can substitute for exercise on really bad days. Your dog won't suffer from one short walk — but a trip through a waterlogged street that leads to a week of paw infections is not worth it.
Monsoon is a season to slow down a little. Your dog will follow your lead.
