How frequently your dog needs a bath is dependent on a lot of things such as the dog’s breed, coat length and lifestyle. There is no true science to say when you should bath your dog, but you can make an educated guess based on three factors: their lifestyle, coat type and skin health.
Lifestyle
As humans, when we work up a sweat at the gym, playing sport or working outside, we need a shower afterwards. Dogs who are frequently active playing outside with other dogs and rolling in the mud will need baths more often. Adventures at the beach will also require a bath afterwards. With small short-coated dogs, you can get away with giving them a good rub down with a damp washcloth to remove dirt, but dogs with thick fur may need more than that to make them presentable in your house.
Dogs like French Bulldogs may only need one bath every two to three months as long as they’re staying clean.
Regardless of your pup’s activity levels, their coat type is also a factor to keep in mind.
Coat Type
Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as the shorter your dog’s hair, the less bathing you need to do, but as a rule of thumb, short-haired dogs require bathing every one to three months, while dogs with medium and long coats should be washed every four to six weeks. Ultimately though, coat length is less important than the coat texture.
Some coats naturally repel dirt, while dirt seems to cling to others.
Poodles and Bichons have soft coats that hold dirt. Labrador Retrievers and Basset Hounds have oily coats that need frequent washing – about once a week – to ensure that their skin is protected from absorbing bacteria and toxins which are naturally eliminated when furrier dogs shed. Hairless breeds, such as the Chinese Crested, require weekly baths because they are prone to pore blockages and dermatological issues. Yorkshire Terriers, Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos also need frequent bathing to keep their long drop coats fresh because they collect oil ad debris easily.
Thick coated and double-coated breeds, like Huskies and Australian Shepherds can be bathed every one to three months. They shed frequently and when they do, their coat naturally gets rid of dead skin cells and bacteria that could irritate or be harmful. As a result, they should be bathed often in addition to their natural shedding process. Be aware that bathing too frequently can result in dry skin.
If you’re not sure what kind of coat your dog has, ask your veterinarian during your next visit.
Health
Never wash your dog in human shampoo, as their skin is more sensitive than ours. According to Jan Reisen from the American Kennel Club, “using a human shampoo on dogs disrupts the acid mantle, leaving your dog vulnerable to parasites, viruses and bacteria.”
If your dog has a skin condition that requires periodical application of prescribed ointments or regular washing in special shampoo, you may have to wash them twice a week for a few weeks, depending on the vet’s prescription. The frequency will entirely depend on the skin condition, the product you use and the instructions you’re given by your vet.
Certain foods are key to keeping your dog’s coat healthy, including eggs and vitamin E. If you have been bathing your dog often and notice that their skin is dry or irritated, consider bathing less frequently. Brush your dog in between baths instead, to remove loose hair and dead skin cells.
Hire A Professional
If you would rather have someone with training and experience manage your dog’s grooming for you, get a groom booked with one of Albany’s highly rated dog grooming services:
Maybe your dog hates baths and it’s getting nearly impossible for you or your groomer to actually get them clean. Follow My Lead can help with your dog’s fear (or stubbornness) by simple and fun training methods. Give us a call or send a message to get help now – before it gets worse!