The answer to the question of ‘How Often To Bathe a Dog‘ is largely determined by the breed of dog you have. Whether s/he has short or long fur. Whether s/he is a messy dog by nature – a dog that loves to roll around in the mud, or messy, smelly things.
The simple answer as to how often to bathe a dog is, whenever s/he needs one. For some dogs that could be as often as weekly, for most though, once a month is more than enough.
However, unless your dog has a skin problem that requires regular bathing or is a particularly smelly dog by nature then no more than weekly – unless instructed otherwise by a vet.
If someone in your household is allergic to dogs then you may need to bathe your dog at least once a week. This will remove the dander that builds up in a pets fur and can cause skin reactions and/or wheezing and sneezing for those with respiratory illnesses.
Be sure to watch the video “How to Bathe Your Dog Properly” at the bottom of this page.
Pros and Cons of Bathing a Dog Regularly
The upside of washing your dog regularly is that you have a clean dog. This is ideal if your dog lives inside with you and sleeps on the bed beside you.
The downside of washing your dog regularly is that you may be stripping your dog’s coat of its natural oils. Oils such as sebum, which is a protective coating – natures way of protecting your dog from the elements. Depending on the breed of dog, this can leave your dog’s fur quite dry and harsh.
Therefore, you need to find the right balance for your dog and living situation. Research your breed of dog, ask your vet, or the breed association for your dog. I’d even try a Google search, as I have just done: “How often to bathe a Jack Russell” The consensus being pretty much as I said above;
Depending on your Jack Russell Terrier’s outside activities, you should only have to bathe him every month or less. Of course, if your terrier is out rolling in the dirt on a daily basis, you may have to bathe him a bit more frequently.
Evolution Of The Domesticated Dog Continues
It was not that long ago when it was unheard of to even think about giving a dog a bath. How times have changed. Part of this change has to do with the fact dogs are now seen as part of the family. They are no longer the working dog, the guard dog, whose place is outside. We love and care for our dogs more than any time in the past.
So much so that the dogs themselves almost expect to live inside the house, it’s hard to resist those puppy dog eyes staring back up at you when its time to put them out on a cold winters night.
So our dogs, by and large, now spend far more time indoors than they were allowed to do just a few decades ago. And as such we require a higher standard of hygiene.
I can remember when I was growing up our dogs were never allowed inside the house and the closest thing to a bath was being squirted with the garden hose.
However, I must say that there is something comforting about a dog sleeping at the foot of your bed. A clean dog, dry, that is.
The Best Shampoo For Your Dog is Not Human Shampoo
OK, so the time has come and you need to bathe your dog. Hopefully, you have done some research or thought about this beforehand and have purchased a Doggie Shampoo. Yes, a Doggie shampoo.
You can now buy shampoos AND conditioners for dogs that are equal to that which we use on our own heads. Well, sort of. They may come in many of the same flavors – Lavender, chamomile, etc – and be free of nasty chemicals but the recipes are formulated for dog fur and skin, not human skin and hair.
DO NOT bathe your dog using human soap or shampoo!
Therefore, it is best that you only use soaps and shampoos that have been formulated specifically for dogs. Soaps, shampoos, and conditioners formulated for human use can dry out your dog’s skin and cause skin issues as well as leaving the fur dry and harsh feeling.
Pets owners are at times more concerned about what is in the shampoo they choose for their dogs than they are with their own heads.
Most dog owners want to know that what they put on to their dogs are free of harsh chemicals and toxic substances.
Personally, I have not used shampoo for nearly a decade, just no need. However, I know that the women in my life can get quite overwhelmed when choosing which shampoo to buy. Luckily it’s a lot easier finding a great one for my dog! I’ve taken all the trial and error out for you with my top dog shampoo reviews – see below.
There are a few key things I look for when picking a shampoo.
- p.H balanced to support the acid mantle that protects my dog’s skin
- Natural ingredients
- Great smell
As my dog suffers from chronic skin allergies, I rely on her shampoo to calm and soothe her itchy skin.
To help you pick the very best for your dog I have put together my top 4 dog shampoo reviews!
How Often Should You Bathe A Dog?
I’m a big believer in the benefits of a great shampoo.
There is nothing quite like a dog when it comes to making a mess! From cobwebs to dirt, sand, salt and who knows what else?! Shampoo is sometimes necessary to lather all this build up out!
The right shampoo will also be full of ingredients to add glossy shine. Perfect for keeping your dog looking great, and essential if they have showing or performing in their future!
For dogs like my Tazz, shampoo is soothing against itchy, raw skin. There are so many amazing products that have harnessed the natural healing powers of ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera – with great results!
However, you do need to tread carefully and find the ideal balance!
Shampooing too often can strip your dog’s coat of natural oils that protect and add shine to their fur. This can lead to damaged and rough fur, and excess oil production – and a smelly dog!
While your dog is young I recommend giving them frequent baths. This gets them used to the process, making it easier as they’re older! Alternate between just using water and using their shampoo.
Why Your Dog Needs Their Own Shampoo
Trust me, you wouldn’t be the first person to ask why your dog cant just share your shampoo! Humans and dogs both have skin that acts as a protective barrier – it’s protected by an acid mantle.
Your skin sits at a pH of around 5.2 to 6.2, so your shampoo SHOULD be carefully formulated to support this.
Your dog’s skin is around 5.5 to 7.5 – therefore they need their very own shampoo to support their natural pH level.
Our Top 4 Dog Shampoo Reviews
WashBar Natural Dog Shampoo Bar
This great, natural product ticks all the boxes! Unlike liquid shampoos, you use this product by rubbing the bar directly on the skin. This smells AMAZING and has the added bonus of lemon-scented tea tree oils which is a natural calmer for dogs who find bath time stressful. It is also antibacterial and antifungal, with neem leaf used for the treatment of a range of skin conditions. Check it out here: Washbar Natural Dog Shampoo Bar.
Earth Bath All Natural Pet Shampoo Oatmeal and Aloe
Earthbath has some amazing, pH balanced shampoos that utilize natural ingredients to support skin health. Their oatmeal and aloe shampoo is perfect for dogs like mine that suffer from itchy or irritated skin. Check it out here: Earth Bath All Natural Pet Shampoo
Earth Bath All Natural Puppy Shampoo
Another Earthbath creation, this shampoo is ultra-mild for wee pups. Safe from 6 weeks, with gentle cleansers and cherry essence this will keep your puppy looking great and smelling delicious! Check it out here: Earth Bath All Natural Puppy Shampoo.
Rocco and Roxie Grooming and Spa Dog Shampoo
Rocco and Roxie offer 3 brilliant formulas, one for sensitive and dog skin, one for shine, and one for irritated or itchy skin. Made harnessing the benefits of ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and rosemary, your dog’s fur will look and feel great. Check it out here: Rocco and Roxie Grooming and Spa Dog Shampoo.
So, next time your dog needs a wash, pick one of our favourite shampoos to get your dog squeaky clean!
Full disclosure – Affiliate Links: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need really them.
How To Bathe Your Dog Properly
Related article: Get Rid Of Dog Smells and Keep Your Home and Dog Smelling Great