Why bathe your dog at all and how often to do it
Bathing a dog is not only a matter of hygiene, but also of health, skin and coat. Bathing not only removes dirt and dust, but also dead skin cells, excess undercoat, allergens and harmful bacteria. Regular bathing helps prevent dandruff, odor and itching. It’s also a way to connect emotionally with your dog, teaching him to respond calmly to touch and water.
However, bathing dogs too often can be harmful. If you use the wrong products or wash unnecessarily, the natural protective layer of the skin is washed away, which can lead to dryness, irritation and flaking.
General recommendations:
– Short-haired dogs should be bathed once every 1-2 months
– Long-haired or ornamental – once every 3-4 weeks
– Hard-haired dogs – depending on coat type and season, but no more than once a month.
If the dog got dirty (fell into the mud, ran in the rain or ran away in a puddle) – bathing is possible and more often, but always with the use of gentle cosmetics.
What products are suitable for home bathing and what to avoid
The first and main rule is that only specialized shampoos for dogs. Products for humans, even “baby” shampoos, have a different pH level and can cause irritation. Dogs have a skin pH closer to neutral (6.2-7.4), whereas human skin is more acidic. Therefore, using human products will literally “wash out” your dog’s defenses.
Choose a shampoo
– by coat type (long, short, curly, stiff)
– according to skin condition (sensitive, moisturizing, anti-dandruff, etc.).
– preferably without parabens, SLS, strong fragrances.
– professional salons use shampoos Burbur, Iv San Bernard, Chris Christensen, Artero, Show Tech – they give soft but deep cleansing.
It is also worth buying a conditioner or mask, especially for long-haired breeds – it will help to avoid tangling and make the coat shiny.
To make bathing easier, it’s handy to have:
– a rubber mat for the bottom of the bathtub or shower – to prevent your dog from sliding around
– watering can with a gentle pressure
– towels (one for water and one for wrapping)
– comb or brush if the hair is long
– A hair dryer (regular or with temperature control, so as not to overheat the dog).
Step-by-step instructions: how to bathe your dog at home.
To ensure that bathing does not become a stress for either the animal or you, it is important to follow a clear sequence. Here are the detailed instructions proven by the practice of groomers:
Step 1: Prepare the space and tools
Prepare everything in advance: shampoo, conditioner, towels, hair dryer, brush, mat, treats. Fill the shampoo bottle with warm water (1:3 or 1:5 ratio if the product is concentrated). The bathtub or shower stall should be comfortable for securing your dog. Make sure the room is draft-free.
Step 2: Calm your dog
Give her a sniff of the towel, talk to her in a calm voice. You can use a calming pheromone spray. If the dog is afraid of water – don’t start at the head, wash gradually, starting at the paws.
Step 3: Wet the coat
Use warm water (not hot or cold). Start at the paws and work your way up to the body. Avoid spraying into the eyes and ears. If the coat is dense, you will have to separate it slightly with your fingers to allow the water to penetrate to the skin.
Step 4: Shampooing
Apply diluted shampoo in stages: paws, belly, back, sides, tail, neck. Rub in circular motions as if massaging. The head is washed separately, delicately, without getting the product in the eyes and ears. If there are heavily soiled areas – leave the foam for a few minutes.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly
Rinse very carefully. Shampoo residue can cause itching or irritation. Rinse long until the water is completely clear, with no bubbles. Check areas under the paws, in the folds and under the tail.
Step 6: Conditioner
Apply a balm or mask for 2-5 minutes if the breed is long-haired. Do not apply to the roots of the coat. Then rinse again thoroughly rinse again thoroughly rinse again.
Step 7: Drying
Blot the coat with a towel (do not rub!). Then dry with a blow dryer with warm air, combing the coat against the growth for volume or upwards for a smooth look. Do not bring the hair dryer close to the skin. Avoid over-drying – the coat should be completely dry but not overheated.
Step 8: Post-bathe grooming
Brush the coat, give a treat, and praise. This will reinforce the positive association with bathing. If necessary, apply a light spray of grooming or anti-static.
Typical mistakes when bathing your dog at home
Even with the best intentions, many owners make small but critical mistakes. The most common of these are:
– Using human shampoo – this dries out the skin and causes irritation
– Getting water in the ears – a frequent cause of otitis media
– Washing too infrequently or frequently – harms both the coat and the skin microflora
– Poor rinsing of shampoo – residue provokes itching and inflammation
– Drying in the cold or without a blow dryer – can cause colds or pits
– Haircutting your dog before or immediately after bathing – the coat needs to “stand up” after washing, especially if it is a stiff or fluffy texture
The best solution for those who are unsure of their own skills is to at least periodically seek professional grooming. At V.O.G DOG SALON, groomers properly bathe and dry and select products according to coat type, skin type, breed and even season. Your dog is clean, shiny, voluminous and absolutely happy after this visit.
