Dog Baths - How Much is Too Much
Some owners will do dog baths too often and others too little. Common sense prevails here; dog bathing should be done when needed. Your dog does not have to smell like he just walked out of a salon but smelling as though he just got out of a dumpster is not good either.
If you keep your dog well groomed, which means frequent brushing and keeping his sleeping area clean, you will not have to be bathing a dog more than every month at the most. Some breeds have more dog odor than others. If your dog is being groomed regularly and he begins to smell, it is time for a bath. But do keep in mind that more than once a month can dry the skin and coat.
Here are some guidelines for dog baths…
1. Bath when your pet dog may have been into some nasty smelling substance. Antibacterial and deodorizing shampoos are available for this.
2. He has simple doggy odor - use one of the many tearless dog shampoos on the market.
**Note** If the smell is more than a doggy odor, it could be a sign of a skin disease, a problem with the ears, mouth or anal glands. Check with your veterinarian.
3. Dandruff - use a dandruff shampoo, there are many on the market but check with your groomer or vet as to the cause.
4. Allergies - a dog with itchy skin from allergies may find a bath soothing and help reduce itching. The use of a soothing oatmeal shampoo, a gentle hypo-allergenic or hydrocortisone-based shampoo in most cases should be helpful.
5. Fleas, mites, tics, and lice - special shampoos made for parasites are great for this problem.
6. If your best buddy has had a confrontation with a skunk, there are special shampoos for this type of odor.
7. A day at the beach - salt may cause itching and skin irritation.
A few other tips to remember about bathing . . .
1. Puppy Bathing - if you have a puppy use one specially made for him.
2. Start at an early age to get your dog used to being brushed and bathed.
3. Shampoo can leave a residue which may irritate your best friend so rinse well after shampooing.
4. Do not use human shampoos on your dog. The PH level is not the same as it is for pets.
5. You may want to add a fatty acid supplement to your dog’s diet for a healthy shine on his coat.
6. Dry shampoos are available if you have a doggy that does not like the water and does not find bath time fun. Keep in mind though, it does not really take the place of a bath because it does not reach the skin. You are going to have to shampoo your doggie at some point.
7. Select the correct shampoo for your dog. There are many to choose from.
8. Wear old clothes you will get wet.
9. Use a drain screen to prevent clogging.
One final word on dog baths and grooming in general; your dog’s appearance says a lot about you and how you feel about your best friend. There is no such thing as a breed that requires no grooming.