One of the first questions we ask ourselves when we get a dog is, “How often can I bathe my dog?” Bathing a dog should be emphasised more. This is due to the fact that if you are not careful when bathing the animal, it may become infected.
If you don’t shut your ears with a huge cotton ball, water may enter the ear canals and induce ear infections, which manifest as continual discharge from the ears and head shaking.
Can I bathe my dog on a regular basis?
Bathing frequency is determined on the dog’s breed. Bathing should be done once every six to eight weeks if the dog is a hairy breed like the cocker spaniel.
If these breeds are bathed too often, the protective qualities of their skin and coat are lost. However, if the dog has defecated on the skin as a result of recurrent digestive disturbances resulting in diarrhoea, the dog may be bathed frequently by the owners to avoid the unpleasant odour.
Avoid irritating soaps and human soaps with extra caution. Dogs should not use human soap.
Similarly, many human shampoos contain chemicals that are not safe for use in dog shampoos in the levels recommended. As a result, if possible, try to utilise shampoo solutions designed specifically for dogs. Use any new product with extra caution.
Have plenty of time and patience to gather all of the bathing supplies you’ll need in one location with a water source. Water, rivers, and oceans are all favourites for dogs.
Even if you’re bathing the dog in the bathtub, make sure everything is in one place beforehand. A leash, conditioner, towel, and shampoo should all be kept in the bath.
Conditioner can help with later combing. Bathing the dog and the owner should be a pleasant experience for both. This isn’t supposed to be a hassle.
Dog Grooming
Many dog owners consider clipping to be purely mechanical. Few people realise that dog grooming is a skill. To avoid injury to the skin or nail, clipping a coat or nail should be done with caution.
The coat should be clipped according to the breed.
If the coat is not cut properly, dust can accumulate in the coat, causing the animal to develop skin disorders. This is especially true when grooming isn’t done properly.
The cutting of your dog’s coat helps to get rid of the parasite burden to a greater extent, and it also helps to expose the sort of parasitic problem that the dog is likely to have.
There are numerous pet health parlours where dog clipping can be done in a more methodical manner.
Always use a sharp clipper, and avoid close clipping throughout the winter months. This is because the tighter cutting during the winter months may expose the dog to environmental challenges such as the cold.
As a result, the dog may be more susceptible to frostbite. Close coat or nail cutting should be avoided because it can injure the underlying tissues and cause bleeding in the affected animal.
Many pet owners must refrain from cutting their animals when they are not in good health. Many pet stores have more clipping devices.
Avoid blunt devices since they may not clip well, requiring frequent repetition. When clipping, always use contemporary equipment.
The Exercise Level of Your Dog
If your dog is really active and spends a lot of time outside, he or she will need to be bathed more frequently, especially if they swim or play in the dirt. Athletic dogs may require more frequent washes to regulate their odour, even if they aren’t prone to making messes.
Coat and Skin Type
According to the American Kennel Club, long-haired and curly-haired dog breeds require more frequent bathing and brushing to avoid matting. Bathing these dogs at least once every four to six weeks is also recommended by the AKC, with frequent brushing in between baths to keep the coat in good shape.
As long as they’re healthy, short-haired breeds like Labrador retrievers can get away with less regular bathing.
What if your dog’s coat is completely bald?
Hairless dogs, such as the Chinese crested dog, require weekly bathing because they lack the skin protection that a coat gives. More frequent washes are particularly beneficial for dogs with oily skin, such as cocker spaniels and basset hounds, according to Care.com.
Allergies or Skin Conditions
Some dogs have allergies or skin issues that necessitate regular medicated shampoo bathing. In these circumstances, the optimum dog bath frequency will be determined by your veterinarian’s or groomer’s advice.
Regular washes with a colloidal oatmeal shampoo may also help dogs with itchy skin. Fleas and ticks may require regular bathing in dogs that do not respond well to oral or topical parasite treatments.
More regular dog bathing might sometimes be beneficial to pet parents. Regular baths to clean your pet’s coat, for example, may help you breathe easier if you’re sensitive to pet dander or if your pup brings outdoor allergens into the house. If your dog is allowed on the furniture or on your bed, bathing them as soon as they stink will make life easier for you.
How much is excessive?
If you’re wondering how often you should bathe your dog, keep in mind that too much bathing can be harmful to your pet. According to Reader’s Digest, bathing your dog too frequently might deplete its natural oils, which they require for a healthy coat and skin.
This could cause a dry, dull coat as well as irritated skin. If you have to bathe your dog more than once a month or so, use a moisturising dog shampoo and follow up with a moisturising dog conditioner to help replace your pet’s natural moisture.
Ask your veterinarian or groomer if you’re still unsure how often you should bathe your dog. They should be able to provide specific suggestions to assist you keep your dog clean and healthy based on your dog’s breed, health, and lifestyle.
