Not all dogs need a bath
My-Dog.info > Dog Care
Although there are no strict recommendations on how often you
should bathe your dog, bathing frequency will depend on whether
or not your dog needs a bath, and on such variables as the breed
of dog, the kind of shampoo you are using, and how sensitive you
are to the smells associated with dogs.
Most dogs usually never really require a bath. Baths can be
given as often as is necessary (i.e. if your dog gets dirty or
has an offensive body odour), although regular grooming, by way
of combing and brushing, is often all that is required. Two or
three baths a month is not considered excessive. However, if
bathing is required more often than this, a special medicated
shampoo, readily available from your veterinarian, should be used
to prevent the hair coat and skin from drying out.
Human skin differs significantly from a dog's skin. A dog's
skin is much thinner, has no sweat glands, has a different pH
compared to human skin, and as such, a pet's skin is much more
sensitive than human skin. Shampoos intended for human use, even
baby or pH balanced brands, should never be used on dogs. Heavily
perfumed shampoos should also be avoided, since they may cause an
allergic reaction. For best grooming results, your veterinarian
can advise you on which shampoo is ideal for your pet.
The frequency of bathing rarely causes any significant
problems in dogs, provided that the appropriate shampoo is used.
In fact, the major cause of problems tends to be due to improper
rinsing afterwards. A shampoo residue can cause skin irritations
if left on sensitive dog skin, especially around the
ultra-sensitive scrotum or vulva. If there is any doubt as to
whether the shampoo is entirely rinsed, rinse one more time.
Reprinted with permission from www.animalhealthcare.ca
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