Trying to decide when and how to bathe your dog is often difficult because veterinarians are reluctant to give a set frequency or method.
The reason we aren't more specific is that bathing frequency depends on a number of factors: the particular breed of dog, how much time is spent outdoors, the dog's age, and any existing medical conditions, to name a few.
The fact is that when and how you bathe your dog will change throughout the year and throughout the dog's life. Here are some reasons that your dog may need a bath, as well as some bathing pointers:
- The dog rolled in something and smells.
Pretty obvious right? This is actually the #1 reason that my dog is bathed. If your dog is like mine and has a habit of seeking out something smelly and rolling in it, then he will need a bath right away. Use a good strong shampoo like the
Premier System Shampoo and don't be afraid to wash him twice.
- The dog has a doggy smell.
This doggy odor usually develops when a dog has a buildup of oils on the skin and the oils start to turn rancid. Bacteria will live in this oil and an
anti-bacterial/deodorizing shampoo is great for this. This odor is more common in dogs that aren't bathed frequently, in older dogs, or in dogs with irritated skin. Most any shampoo will work on these dogs and depending on the dog, bathing will need to be done every two to twelve weeks.
- The dog has dandruff.
Dandruff may be caused by dry, irritated, or oily skin, but all of these conditions can be helped by the appropriate shampoo and a good bathing. Check with your veterinarian or groomer to determine the cause of your dog's skin condition and then choose the right shampoo.
- The dog spent the night at the Veterinary Clinic or boarding facility.
We often forget about this, but it is important. Veterinary Clinics and boarding kennels can be full of all kinds of nasty bugs, and bathing a pet as soon as it gets home is one of the best ways to prevent him from picking up a boarding disease or problem.
- The dog has allergies.
Bathing a dog with itchy skin from allergies can be soothing and help reduce itching. Dogs with allergies probably shouldn't be bathed more than once a week and a gentle
hypo-allergenic or
hydrocortisone-based shampoo should be used.
- The dog has fleas, mites, or lice.
Shampooing is still one of the best ways to get rid of external parasites. Make sure to work with your veterinarian and get the appropriate diagnosis and corresponding treatment.
Once you determine the primary purpose for the shampoo you will need - for instance, if your dog always gets an unpleasant doggy odor three weeks after bathing - then choose an appropriate shampoo and have it on hand for when you need it. Use our
Shampoo Selection Guide for help in choosing the right shampoo for your dog.
A few other tips to remember about bathing…
- Always use a shampoo formulated for dogs. Human shampoos have a different pH level and often use harsher detergents than pet shampoos. You can do more damage than good if you use a human shampoo on pets.
- Start bathing your dog when it is young so bath time will be easier as your dog ages.
- Brushing is one of the best ways to take care of your dog's skin and coat and in many cases is more important than bathing.
- Fatty acid supplements added to your pet's good diet will help maintain a healthy haircoat and skin. For the best coats, we recommend daily brushing, regular baths, and supplementation with a fatty acid supplement like
Vitacoat or
Vitacoat Plus.
Every dog needs a bath from time to time so follow your instincts - and these tips - and your dog and your family will thank you for it.
