In most parts of the country, the winter months are tough on skin and hair - not just for humans, but for pets, as well.

Val Penstone, Director of Grooming for Best Friends Pet Care, answers some common questions and debunks some myths about grooming your pet during the winter.

Is it safe to bathe my dog in winter?
Contrary to popular opinion, your pet actually needs regular shampooing during the winter months to keep his skin and coat healthy. In fact, done properly, a bath can help to reduce dryness, matting and related skin problems. Always follow the shampoo with a conditioning rinse or moisturizing treatment.

Don't be tempted to use your own hair care products on your pet. Animal's skin has a different pH from human skin, so choose products specially formulated for pets. If your pet's skin seems especially dry or scaly, he may need a medicated treatment. If you aren't sure which products are right for your pet, consult a professional groomer for product recommendations.

Should I leave my pet's hair long in winter to keep him warm?
If your pet is a breed that requires regular trimming, it's important to maintain his haircut schedule year round. Allowing his hair to "grow in for the winter" can result in increased matting, which is a major cause of skin problems. If you decide to leave his coat longer for the winter, be prepared to brush him daily to prevent matting.

If you're concerned about your pet being cold when he's outdoors, a sweater or fleece coat is a better option than leaving his coat long.

My dog seems to itch a lot more during the winter. What can I do?
With windows closed and heaters on, low humidity indoors can make your pet's skin dry and itchy. Regular brushing stimulates the natural oils in the skin and helps to counteract dryness and keep your pet more comfortable.

Is your pet's coat matted? Matting is a major cause of skin problems during the winter months. Matting holds dampness against your pet's skin and can cause redness, irritation, and odor. Regular brushing will prevent matting.

Why do my pets nails seem to grow faster in the winter?
When pets have fewer hours of exercise, nails can become overgrown because they are not being worn down with normal activity. Dog's nails will need more frequent clipping during the winter months. The ideal length for a dog's nail is barely touching the ground when the dog is standing still.

Do dogs really need to wear booties in the winter?
Salt used for de-icing roads and sidewalks can cause your dog's pads to become cracked and sore. If your pet won't wear booties, be sure to wash toes and pads with warm water after walks to remove any salt residue. Dry them thoroughly, and apply a protective product like Protect-A-Pad (similar to Chapstick, for paws).

Also, keep the hair on your pet's feet trimmed. Long hair can form uncomfortable mats between and under the toes and can cause snow and ice to become packed in the pads of the feet, causing irritation.