As the ground starts to thaw, daily walks and backyard play can turn into messy affairs for dog owners. You’ll need to employ some smart strategies to keep your dog, and your home, clean.

The spring melt is a welcome sign that warmer days are ahead, but it can be a stressful time for dog owners. Gone are the days of frozen ground and clean snow. As everything thaws, you may find yourself constantly battling the incursion of mud into your home. Thankfully, by being proactive and establishing some consistent routines, mud season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming for you or your dog.

Managing the mud can begin before it even has a chance to enter your home by thinking about where and how your dog spends time outdoors. If possible, choose walking routes that stay cleaner and drier, like paved paths and sidewalks rather than fields or dirt trails. In your yard, consider restricting your dog to areas where water doesn’t collect as much. You can also plant new grass or lay sod in spots that see a lot of mud.

Protective gear, like paw boots and lightweight coats to keep bellies cleaner, can also help limit mess. Some dogs might not tolerate these accessories very well, but if yours is amenable to wearing them, then they can be particularly useful during very muddy outings.

Despite your best efforts, some mud is still going to end up on your dog and inside your house, but you can deal with it quickly and easily by optimizing your entryway. First, lay down some sturdy, absorbent mats both outside and just inside the door to catch excess water and dirt. Keep towels, wipes, or a shallow container of water nearby so you’re not scrambling once muddy paws appear.

Cleaning paws right away is key to containing the mess. When your dog comes inside, take a moment to wipe down each paw (and even their legs and belly if it was particularly mucky outside). For just some light dirt, a towel or pet-safe wipe may be enough, while thicker mud might need a quick rinse. Over time, many dogs adjust to this routine, especially when it’s calm, consistent, and followed by a treat.

During the spring thaw, you might also want to provide some extra protection for your living spaces in the form of washable furniture covers and blankets so that you’re not fretting if some mud makes it past the door. In your car, consider seat or trunk covers to help contain mud and moisture after walks or trips to the park.

And remember, it’s not just your home and peace of mind that benefit from clean paws. It’s healthier for your dog, too. Mud and moisture trapped between toes can lead to irritation, matting, and even minor infections. Good paw care will keep your dog’s pads, skin, and nails in better condition.

Remember, as well, that mud season is temporary. Stay flexible and use your routines to keep the mud under control, but don’t fret over a small mess. Sunshine, warm weather, and dry ground are just around the corner.