Dog Bathing - The Right Way

No matter how large or small your dog is, regular dog bathing needs to be a part of the grooming routine. Dog grooming isn't just about brushing, it is also about keeping the skin and coat healthy and well managed. Brushing your dog is a major part of the routine, however don't forget that a bath helps to remove dirt and oils close to the skin, plus it can help relieve itching and even help with dry skin problems if done correctly.

Dog Bathing And Breeds

First and foremost owners need to realize that frequent dog bathing is not essential, nor is it healthy or recommended for most breeds of dogs. This would include all terriers, most of the working, hunting and herding dogs. Nature has provided these dogs, for the most part, with one of two types of coats. One type is the double coat, a longer, thicker, slightly oily water resistant or repelling outer coat and a downy, soft insulating undercoat. The other type is more typically of the terriers, a wiry, harsh coarse coat that repels water plus also protects the rest of the body from brambles and bushes. 

Washing these dogs will strip the natural oils from the coat, resulting in limp, flat and dull looking hair. The other possibility is dry, frizzy hair that looks like it has been subjected to a bad perm! Always check with your breeder or do some research on the breed to find out how often to bathe as part of your dog grooming routine.

Dog Grooming Products

Only use dog bathing products that are formulated for dogs. Never use human hair care products on dogs. Human hair products including shampoos and conditioners are developed for human hair pH, which is different than that of dogs. In addition human products are full of perfumes and additives that can trigger skin allergies in many different dogs, regardless of their breed. If you don't have dog shampoo for some reason, diluted baby shampoo can be used in a pinch, however a dog shampoo and conditioner really is the best option.

There are special herbal and natural shampoos and conditioners that can be used to help with dull coats, dry skin, hot spots, allergies and helping to control odors. There are also medicated shampoos for dogs that may be needed to control insects, fleas or parasites on the skin. Read all labels carefully and if you have any questions talk to your vet before using it on the dog.

Rinse, Rinse, Rinse

The biggest mistake that people make when starting out on a dog bathing routine is that they simply don't rinse all the shampoo or conditioner out of the dog's coat. This leaves the coat looking dull and greasy, plus it will lead to itching and scratching. Rinse your dog completely, from neck to tail, paying particular attention to the underside of the dog. Keep rinsing until the water runs from the body completely free from soap or bubbles, then rinse one more time to make sure.

Dog bathing needs to be fun for both the dog and the people, so add a few treats and plan to spend time praising and petting your dog in this part of the dog grooming routine.