How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?

Some dogs love baths and some hate them. Either way, they need to be bathed! It's simply a part of regular dog care items like feeding them and taking them on walks. Dogs don't often clean themselves the way that cats do, so that's where you come in, shampoo and towel in hand.

Exactly how often you bathe your pup depends on their breed, skin conditions, and how often they like to roll around in the mud, but a general guideline to follow is to bathe your dog at least once a month. Certain breeds may need bathing more often, especially those with skin conditions and hairless breeds. Hearty short haired breeds could probably go a bit longer in between baths. In general, once a month will make your dog clean and happy, as long as you're using the right products that won't dry out their skin.

Qualities of the Perfect Dog Shampoo

The most important thing is using something that won't dry out their skin and fur. This means a soap-free shampoo and conditioner made from natural ingredients with moisturizer included. The shampoo should not interfere with topical flea medications, so your dog (and your home) can stay bite free.

Consider factors of your dog's behavior and age. If your dog has gotten into some garbage, a deodorizing shampoo may do the trick. Shampoos for puppies are a bit more gentle on your soft and furry friend. So, the qualities of the perfect shampoo depend on your mutt, but in general, think soap-free and moisturizing.

Dog Bathing Tips

So, your dog doesn't like to take a bath. Or maybe he does but your bathroom ends up looking like it got hit by a hurricane after all is said and done. Here's how to make bath time easier for both you and your dog.

• Have everything nearby. Before you even bring your pup into the bathroom, bring the towel, and any shampoos and conditioners you plan to use. Dogs are unpredictable, especially when they do not want to take a bath, and having everything close will make it faster and easier.
• Use a shake towel. Putting a towel over your dog while you're getting ready for the next step of the bath could prevent them from shaking off and getting water all over the walls.
• Stay inside. Keep your pup inside until she is fully dry because dirt plus water equals a big mess. If your dog can handle the sound, blow drying is a faster way to make sure she won't get too messy if she needs to go outside.
• Make it quick. Have your plan in place of how you are going to bathe your dog right when you start. Experts recommend to start at the neck and work your way down the body.
• Stay positive. Even if your dog resists, don't get angry or annoyed towards them. They are very sensitive to your emotions and they just want to please you, but they are scared. Keep a loving and positive tone in your voice - and perhaps give a treat or two - and your dog might come out on the other end loving baths!

Keeping Your Dogs Coat & Skin Healthy

Bathing is just one part of your dog's coat and skin health. There are other things you can do to keep your fur baby looking great.

• Make sure your dog's diet is on point. A healthy diet will keep your dog's coat looking beautiful, so make sure that you buy high-quality food and treats with balanced nutrition and great ingredients for your dog's size and weight.
• Doggie vitamins can help their coats stay beautiful. Make sure to supplement with omega fatty acids like flaxseed oil or fish oil for an extra lustrous coat. Even a simple scoop of coconut oil can have a similar effect!
• Use doggie sunscreen. Pets with pale skin under their fur can be just as sensitive to the sun's rays as you are. Use a pet-safe spray sunscreen on exposed areas, or put a shirt on them.
• Brushing your dog is an important part of grooming, especially in particularly hairy breeds. It keeps long haired dogs from getting matted fur, and helps to keep their coat clean in between baths.

Go Forth and Clean!

The first step towards giving your dog their monthly bath is picking out the right shampoo. One option to try is our new Clean Condition 2-in-1 Shampoo for Dogs. This product meets the recommended conditions for moisturizing and caring for doggy's fur and skin. It is soap-free with a light coconut scent that can combat trips inside the garbage and other smelly pup endeavors. Use it on puppies and even your cat. Give our dog shampoo a try and then let us know how much your dog loves it in the comments below! As always, our products are backed by our 100% money back guarantee.

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