How often should you bathe your dog? It is one of those questions with no single answer, because it depends on your dog’s coat, skin, lifestyle and how much they love rolling in mud. Bathing too rarely can leave your dog smelly and itchy, but bathing too often can strip natural oils and dry out the skin. Here is how to find the right balance.
A general guideline
For many healthy dogs, a bath every one to three months is enough. Some dogs need it more often, others less. These factors make the biggest difference:
- Coat type. Oily-coated breeds like Basset Hounds may need more frequent baths. Dogs with water-resistant double coats, such as Labradors or Huskies, often need fewer baths and benefit more from regular brushing. Hair-coated breeds like Poodles and Shih Tzus are often bathed every few weeks as part of regular grooming.
- Lifestyle. A dog who swims in lakes, hikes on muddy trails or sleeps in your bed may need more frequent baths than a mostly indoor dog.
- Skin conditions. Dogs with allergies or skin infections are sometimes prescribed medicated shampoos on a specific schedule. Follow your vet’s instructions.
A simple rule: bathe your dog when they are dirty or start to smell. If their skin is getting dry or flaky, you may be bathing too often or using the wrong shampoo.
Choose the right shampoo
Use a shampoo made for dogs. Human shampoos are formulated for human skin, which has a different pH, and they can irritate a dog’s skin. Gentle, unscented or lightly scented shampoos are usually best. For dogs with sensitive or itchy skin, ask your vet for a recommendation.
How to give your dog a bath
1. Brush first
Brush out tangles and loose hair before the bath. Water tightens mats, making them harder to remove.
2. Prepare everything
Have shampoo, towels, treats and a non-slip mat ready before you bring your dog in. Use lukewarm water, comfortable to the inside of your wrist.
3. Wet thoroughly
Wet your dog from the neck down, making sure the water reaches the skin, especially in thick coats.
4. Lather and massage
Work the shampoo through the coat, paying attention to the belly, legs and paws. Avoid getting shampoo or water in the eyes and ears. Clean the face gently with a damp washcloth.
5. Rinse very well
This is the step people rush most. Leftover shampoo can irritate the skin and cause itching. Rinse until the water runs completely clear, then rinse again.
6. Dry thoroughly
Towel dry, and for thick coats consider a blow dryer on a cool or low setting held at a safe distance. Damp coats, especially in skin folds, can lead to skin irritation or hot spots.
Do not forget the rest of grooming
- Brushing. Regular brushing removes dirt and loose hair, distributes natural oils and reduces the need for baths. Long-coated dogs may need daily brushing, while short-coated dogs may need it weekly.
- Ears. Check ears weekly. Clean only with a product made for dogs, and never push anything deep into the ear canal. Redness, odor or discharge should be checked by a vet.
- Nails. Trim nails regularly. If you hear them clicking on the floor, they are probably too long. Be careful not to cut the quick, which contains blood vessels and nerves.
- Teeth. Daily brushing with dog toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease.
Making baths less stressful
Many dogs dislike baths. Start slowly with puppies, use lots of treats and praise, keep the water a comfortable temperature and use a non-slip mat so they feel secure. A lick mat spread with a little dog-safe food stuck to the tub wall can be a great distraction.
When to see the vet
If your dog smells bad soon after a bath, scratches constantly, has red or flaky skin, hair loss or sores, there may be an underlying problem such as allergies, a skin infection or parasites. Baths alone will not fix these, so talk to your veterinarian.
This article is for general information only. Ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for advice specific to your dog’s coat and skin.