Washing Your Dog: Our Advices
Unlike cats, which have a reputation for being very clean animals, dogs need regular washing. This is especially true if they love rolling in the dirt at every opportunity. But how often and how should you wash your dog?
When I receive puppies for their first consultation, the most common questions concern grooming. "Doctor, when can I start washing my puppy? Is there a frequency I shouldn't exceed? Do you have tips for choosing the right shampoo?" Far from hearsay and approximations, let's clarify this important topic.
When Should You Wash Your Dog?
Contrary to popular belief, washing frequency doesn't depend solely on your dog's age or coat quality. It must also adapt to their lifestyle habits.
It's easy to understand that a dog living closely with its owners will need more frequent washing than one without indoor access, which is less likely to bother you with its odor.
A dog with access to bedrooms or even the bed will undoubtedly know the way to the bathroom well! To the questions "When can I wash my dog?" and "How often should I wash my dog?", our unambiguous answer is: as soon as it's dirty or you feel the need. It's perfectly fine to wash your dog 1 to 2 times per week! This is sometimes even recommended by veterinarians for certain skin conditions.
However, the more frequent the washes, the more important it is to use a product suited to your dog's skin. We prioritize gentle shampoos that respect the skin's natural flora or contain active ingredients that maintain the skin barrier's integrity.
How to Wash Your Dog?
First, set up in a practical location: the more relaxed the atmosphere, the less your dog will dread this moment! Traditionally, for practical reasons, dogs were washed outside with a hose or large basin. However, shampoo active ingredients work better and faster with lukewarm water. Plus, lukewarm water bathing is far more pleasant for your dog than cold water! Therefore, it's preferable to wash your dog in the bathroom. The only downside: you'll need to dry them to avoid soaking the house.
Today, many homes have walk-in showers: these are easy for our companions to access (no more lifting!) and quick to clean. They can be ideal for washing... Plus, you control the water temperature and keep all your supplies handy it's probably the best option! Otherwise, for small dogs, washing in the sink or basin works well: your friend is within reach without you needing to bend over !
Before washing, start with a good brushing to remove dead hairs and tangles. Then proceed to the shower or bath, following these steps.
1. Start by thoroughly wetting the coat with lukewarm water. For this step, don't hesitate to gently massage the fur: this facilitates saturation. Also take care not to wet the inside of the ears, which could lead to otitis. Contrary to what you sometimes read, do not put cotton in your dog's ears to protect them from moisture it could get wet and make things worse.
2. Pour dog shampoo onto the fur, then apply it over the entire body by massaging. For long-haired dogs, massage in the direction of hair growth to avoid tangles. You can also use our Silicone Dog Bath Massage Gloves Brush, which will help you properly massage your furry companion's entire body. Don't forget to allow a pause time for the active ingredients to work.
Rinse with lukewarm water until the water running off the fur runs clear. It's crucial to remove all shampoo to prevent skin irritation.
Dry your dog. Begin by gently pressing the coat to wring it out. This can be done by hand over the whole body before using a towel to remove maximum residual moisture. Once done, some use a hairdryer for final drying: this is possible but not mandatory. Be careful not to burn your dog with excessive heat! Prior familiarization with the hairdryer is recommended.
To avoid excessive moisture issues from bathing, it's also advisable to clean the ears after every bath.
And there you have it your pet is all clean! Don't forget to praise your dog and perhaps give them a treat so they associate washing with a positive experience.