Can I use human shampoo on my dog?
No! Human shampoos contain ingredients which are far too harsh for a dog’s skin. They have a delicate pH balance, and human shampoo is often too acidic for their skin, causing dehydration and leaving them more susceptible to infection. It will also strip them of their natural oils and damage their coat, so it’s never a wise decision!
How often should I bathe my dog?
It’s recommended you should bathe your dog at least every other week and if that’s not possible, a minimum of once every three months. However, a weekly bath is also considered very beneficial to a dog’s natural grooming routine.
If your pup is getting too mucky between bathtimes, you should probably consider a dry shampoo or wipes to help keep on top of your pup’s personal hygiene.
How do I bathe my dog?
Nobody likes washing their dog, because it’s a messy, time-consuming and ultimately pointless exercise when you take them for a muddy expedition the very next day. But there are ways to make it a quicker and less frustrating experience:
Brushing
Brush your dog’s coat before they even get in the tub, this will remove any matted hair or tangles which can be even more of a struggle once they’re wet!
Temperature
Make sure your water is lukewarm, as too hot will risk burning and too cold will have them shivering! Your dog is less likely to get in the tub if they can’t stand the temperature!
Getting them in the tub
Although dogs aren’t afraid of water, many are still not pleased with the idea of a bath. Try to tire them out with a load of activity on the day of their wash and then act in a calming, reassuring way when the time comes. This will teach them that baths are a relaxing and non-stressful experience and will be easier to integrate into a routine.
Rinse well
Any shampoo residue left on your pup is likely to irritate and dry out their skin, so make sure to rinse several times after cleaning.
Drying
Don’t be tempted to reach for the hairdryer! Hairdryers are way too hot and can be extremely drying for dogs. Unless you have a dryer specifically designed for dogs, it’s far better to air dry your mutt.