Winter weather and indoor heating systems create special problems for your pet's coat and skin. Do you know the best way to groom your pet during the winter? Take our grooming quiz and test your knowledge:

1. During the winter months, pets should be bathed

1. As often as during the warmer months
2. Once or twice, but only if really necessary
3. Not until spring; you shouldn't bathe a pet in the winter

Correct answer: a. 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.

2. When bathing your pet during the winter, be sure to use

1. Baby shampoo or other mild shampoo
2. Clear water with no soap or shampoo
3. A shampoo formulated especially for pets
4. Always follow the bath with a moisturizing treatment

Correct answer: c & d. Animal's skin has a different pH from human skin, so only use products specially formulated for pets. Follow shampoo with a conditioner to moisturize skin. 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.

It's a good idea to let your pet's hair grow long in winter.

• Yes. It provides protection from the cold, especially for outdoor dogs
• It depends upon the pet's breed and coat.
• No. It can cause skin problems

Correct answer: b & c. 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.

4. If your dog scratches more in the winter, it's probably

1. A sign that you need to change his diet
2. Dry skin
3. Nothing, dogs scratch all the time.

Correct answer: b. 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.

5. Pets' nails need more frequent clipping during the winter.

1. True
2. False

Correct answer: True. 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.

6. Before making an appointment with a grooming salon, you should

1. Observe how the groomers and assistants handle the dogs.
2. Look around the shop to be sure it is clean and equipment is in good repair.
3. Review the picture book that shows the groomer's work.
4. Ask whether the shop requires proof of vaccinations.

Correct answer: All of the above. Before your pet's first appointment, take the time to investigate the shop to be sure that the staff is experienced, and that the health and safety of your pet will be a top priority.

For more grooming information, contact your local Best Friends.