Bathing your dog

We often get asked here at the store, “how often should I bathe my dog?”  I am not a groomer, but thought I should investigate this question so that we can better help our furry friends and their parents.  Like I said, I am not a groomer, so if you have been told by your groomer what is the best for your specific breed and that is working for you, I would not change what you are doing.

First we need to keep in mind the breed of the dog, how active is the dog, is she inside or outside, etc.  There are a few factors in looking at to determine how often you should bathe your dog:

DOG COAT

• Double or undercoat dogs bathe once every 4 to 8 weeks.
• Silky long coat bathe once every 3 to 6 weeks
• Non-shedding curly coat bathe once 6 to 8 weeks
• Smooth coat bathe no less than once in 8 weeks or only when he/she gets dirty, frequent bath will wash out their waterproofing oils produced by the skin for protection.
• Wiry/Coarse coat bathe once every 4 to 6 weeks.
• It also helps to brush dogs first prior to bath to remove any of the shedding undercoat.  

 WHAT IS YOUR DOGS LIFESTYLE?

Is your dog a slob or a neat freak?  If your dog loves to roll in the mud or feces every chance he gets, you may have to bathe him every time he does. Usually a small amount of dirt can be brushed out when dry. While some might use dry shampoo to get rid of the dirt, honesty it doesn’t help much. It is only excellent for a quick clean to remove excess oil in the coat but won’t do much good for a really dirty dog.  Should your dog get muddy every day or so, it is recommended that you give a regular bath using a gentle doggy shampoo as you will strip off his natural oil in no time.  It is best if you can at least wait two weeks between baths.

If your dog is a water worshiper and loves to swim in the pool or sea you have to give him a bath after by using moderate mild shampoo. This is to wash out the chlorine and salt water.  You may also want to consider a good condition to retain his natural oil and lustrous coat.

SUMMER IN THE NW

During flea and tick season you may find that you are bathing more to get rid of these little pests.  It is still important that you not bathe too much or you will strip your dog of the oils that protect their skin and instead of itching fleas, they will be itching do to over dry skin.  It is suggested to wait at least 14 days between baths.

ALLERGIES

Food can make a difference as to how your dog looks and feels and smells.  Your dog’s coat can be a reflection as to what is going on inside.  If you dog has food allergies, he/she can develop hot spots, chewing at the feet, sores, constant scratching, etc.  I would start by making sure you dog is off all foods and treats that contain wheat, corn, soy, byproducts and chemicals.   Second, you could come into Beastie Boutique and we would give you a personal consult to help customize what might be the best diet for your pet.   

PRODUCTS 

It is always important to find a good shampoo or condition for your pet.  Here at Beastie Boutique, we carry a variety of shampoos to help meet your needs to include sensitive skin, flea control, or just to treat you and your pet to a pretty spa bath. 

Looking forward to seeing you and your little beasties.

Kristina