Dog Baths - Can it be Done Too Often?

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Written by Donna Boras

Saturday, 29 November 2008 02:13

by DonnaBoras

People tend to do dog baths too often or not enough. Dog bathing should be done when needed. Your dog does not have to smell like a perfume bottle but also not like he just walked out of the local garbage dump 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 he has rolled in something nasty, which is pretty obvious, just use your nose; that tell tale doggy smell will let you know it's time for a bath. Use an antibacterial or deodorizing shampoo and follow up with a conditioner.

2. Normal dog odor - there are many shampoos that will be suitable for this job but one of the tearless ones is best.

**Note**you may want to check with your vet if you feel that the odor from your dog is abnormal. Things that can cause this would be ear infection, problems with the mouth or anal glands or skin disease.

3. Dandruff - check with your vet or groomer to determine the cause and use the appropriate shampoo.

4. Allergies - this can cause your dog's skin to be itchy. If a soothing shampoo such as a hydro-cortisone based shampoo is used it may relieve the itchy and be very soothing for your canine friend. Others that may be helpful for dog baths are the hypo-allergenic shampoos or an oatmeal one.

5. Fleas, mites, tics, and lice - special shampoos made for parasites are great for this problem.

6. If he's been Skunked! There are shampoos specifically for this.

7. If your dog has been in salt water give him a bath, salt may irritate the skin.

Dog Bathing Tips

1. If you are bathing a puppy use a shampoo that is specially formulated for puppies.

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 pet, they are too harsh and have a different PH level.

5. You may want to add a fatty acid supplement to your dog's diet for a healthy shine on his coat.

6. While some dogs enjoy the attention when having their bath others do not. If your dog is afraid of water and bath time is a battle, try one of the dry shampoos.

7. Select the right shampoo for your dog. There are many to choose from.

8. I suggest clothes that you do not mind getting wet.

9. Use a drain screen to prevent clogging.

Finally, your dog's appearance says a lot about you and how you feel about your best buddy. All dog breeds need to be groomed and have dog baths; there is no such thing as a dog that requires no grooming.

About the Author:

Donna Boras is a life long dog lover and owner of dog beds n beyond where you will receive more tips, advice and product reviews on dog care when you sign up for "The Dog Scoop" a FREE monthly publication and receive 2 complimentary gifts. For more on dog odor...