Splish splash, does your dog need a wash? Most humans shower once a day, but how often should you shampoo your pooch? We’ll get down and dirty with the facts on how to keep your furry friend looking fresh and clean to ensure a happy, healthy pup.
How Often Should I Shampoo My Dog?
Bathing your dog isn’t just good for their hygiene, it’s also an excellent chance to check for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas and other abnormalities. These things are easier to see when their hair is wet and flat against their body.
But how often should you wash your puppy? There are a few factors that determine your pup’s bath routine:
- Hair Length: Does your dog have long hair that can trap dirt and debris? Or are they short haired and less susceptible to getting grimy?
- Activity Level: A dog who is mostly indoors and stays out of trouble when they’re outside is probably cleaner than a dog who likes to dig holes, play in the park, roll in waste or go swimming.
- Allergies and Skin Conditions: Some dogs have skin allergies or other health conditions that make them prone to needing a bath more or less frequently.
At a minimum, it’s advised to wash your dog at least once every three months. You can wash your dog as frequently as every other week (with gentle pet pH shampoo). When in doubt, use your judgment, if your dog starts to smell, or scratch it’s probably time for a bath.
Is it bad to bathe your dog every week? It can be. Your dog needs natural oils produced by the skin to promote hair growth. Plus over bathing can cause irritation and dryness to the skin. So don’t overdo it!
How To Shampoo A Dog: 8 Tips
How do you wash a dog correctly? It can be tricky trying to keep your pup calm in the tub. Thanks to these tips, giving a dog a bath is easier than you think. Try these simple steps to ensure you have a successful bath time with your pooch.
1. Buy Shampoo & Other Supplies
Use a dog-specific pet pH shampoo to prevent suds stinging their eyes. We recommend you use a hypo-allergenic and all natural shampoo to reduce potential skin irritations and dryness. Have a rubber or non-stick bath mat handy for the tub keeps them from slipping and sliding too much (both inside and outside the tub). Also, have cotton balls ready to gently place in their ears to block water out.
2. Don’t Forget To Brush
Pre wash brushing can easily get overlooked. Before bath time, prep your pooch by giving them a thorough brushing to get rid of tangles and excess hair.
3. Pick A Spot (& Stick To It)
Wondering how to wash a scared dog? Consistency is critical when it comes to keeping your dog calm. Bathing can be uncomfortable, so have a place they are familiar with this will ease their fears or at least let them know what to expect.
A lick pad is a great way to get your pup to sit still during a bath. Just stick the pad to the side of the tub or countertop (if your dog bathes in the sink) and add peanut butter. This combo is sure to keep your pup distracted and entertained, so you can focus on the shampoo and conditioning.
If you live in a smaller apartment, a bathtub with a handheld shower sprayer is sufficient. If they are small breed or a puppy, you could also use the sink. T
If you have an outdoor area and live where its warm, bathe your dog outside. Make sure it’s on a flat, sturdy surface like concrete or a deck, so you’re not counter productive washing them in the muddy grass or yard. A kiddie pool can double as great outdoor doggy tub.
4. Gather Before You Lather
Once your pup is wet, you’ll have your hands full so having everything you need nearby is necessary. Set aside a clean towel, cup for rinsing (if you don't have a hose) and reward during and after for good behavior. Never leave a dog unattended in the tub, and if you’re outside, make sure your dog is contained or on a leash.
5. Some Like It Hot: Water Temp Matters
“Can I bathe my dog in cold water?” is a common question we hear. Lukewarm to slightly warm water is ideal. Never use scalding hot water, always test on your own skin prior as it can burn your dog’s skin. Think of what would be good for a newborn baby or a small child. Not too hot, not too cold.
6. Clean From Bottom To Top, Rinse From Head to Tail
Follow the instructions on the shampoo and conditioner products. Lightly lather the shampoo in a circular motion paying particular attention to their paws and other places prone to dirt. Start with their feet and work your way up to their face last.
This will stop soap from dripping into their eyes and ears as well as cut down on shaking. Rinse starting from the head and work your way down until the water runs clear. This helps the products wash down and away from their sensitive spots.
7. Towel (Or Blow) Dry
Covering your pup in a towel retains heat and also lessens the chances of them shaking water all over you. If it’s cold, or your dog has long hair that takes longer to dry, you might consider using a blow dryer.
8. Make It Fun!
Are you trying to figure out how to give a dog a bath that hates baths? Make it enjoyable! Bathing can be a fun bonding experience for both you and your dog.
Take small steps introducing your puppy to water and working up to a full bath. Don’t take the plunge right away. Be patient and be gentle. If your dog senses you are stressed out they will be too. Make sure you reward with treats and show lots of love and affection.