As a new dog owner there’s no shortage of unknowns and confusion, and sooner or later you find yourself asking how often you should wash your dog. Here at Kip we’ve got plenty of experience with dogs getting dirty after an action-packed day and so we know a thing or two about washing them afterwards. Our dog boarding at Kip Hunter Valley dog hotel and Kip dog hotel Brisbane offer five-star wash and grooming service for your pampered pooch. Our experienced staff know there’s no single answer to how to primp your pooch. There are a number of things to think about; your canine’s coat type, lifestyle, allergies – the list goes on. But don’t stress. We’ve got plenty of tips and tricks to keep your canine clean.
How Should You Wash Your Dog?
When it comes to tub-time, most experts recommend using products specifically formulated for dogs. Using human shampoo can harm your hound, as human skin has a much more acidic pH than dog skin. As such, human shampoo is more acidic than dog shampoo and should be avoided.
There is a right and a wrong technique to wash your dog, too. Some tips when washing your woofball include:
- Checking the water’s temperature
- Brushing their coat out before and after bathing
- Using a gentle rinsing method
We all know our doggies can be sensitive souls, so things like too hot water or a strong shower spray can upset them. To reduce the risk of ear infections after bathing it’s recommended that you regularly clean your dog’s ears using an ear-cleaning product and dry them fully afterwards.
We’re also all for non-slip mats. Available from most pet stores or regular superstores, a bath mat can help ensure a pleasant bath time for your pup without slips and trips.
Another great tip is a lick pad. This aptly-named gadget is a wonderful way to wash your pup whilst keeping them distracted and happy with a snack. Spread some peanut butter on the pad, stick it to the wall in your bathroom and let pup lick away whilst you wash away pup’s pong.
How Often Should You Wash Your Dog?
Now to the big question: how often should you wash your dog? Obviously you should always try to wash them if they smell or are dirty, regardless of how little time has passed since their last bath. After all, cuddles on the couch are a whole lot nicer when your pup’s smelling peachy.
So, what other factors should you consider when you’re looking for a standing slot in your dog’s diary? In general, we recommend you consider the following:
- Lifestyle
- Coat type
- Allergies/skin conditions
- Season
Lifestyle
If your pup is the playful sort who’s prone to getting dirty, you’re probably going to want to wash them more often than your coach potato canine. If you’re looking to become a pet parent but aren’t sure you can handle frequent bathtimes, consider the following. You could get an older dog, as they’re less likely to want to run around getting dirty. If you’re set on getting a puppy, then you could look for a more sedentary dog breeds. Greyhounds or Mastiffs are great for prospective pet parents looking for low-maintenance dogs. There’s no shame in choosing a canine based on these factors. After all, you want to know that your new furry family member will fit in and enjoy being with you as much as you enjoy being with them.
Coat Type
Your canine’s coat type is important, too. It’s not a simple case of the more fur your furball has, the more often you bust out the shampoo, though! Hairless breeds can be quite labour-intensive when it comes to bath time. The hairless Chinese Crested, for example, needs a bath every two weeks, can you believe it?! The Siberian Husky, on the other hand, only needs a rinse once a month or less.
Allergies/Skin Conditions
Medicated washing can help relieve your poor pooch’s allergies/skin conditions. Often, your vet will prescribe medicated shampoos or creams specifically for your dog, so you don’t need to worry about what pooch products to buy. In the case of ticks and fleas, some dogs may not respond well to taking medications. In this case, regular baths can help control the creepy crawlies.
Season
The season also plays a role in how often you should wash your dog. You should bathe your scruffball more often in the winter and spring. Why these seasons? Harsh winter weather can dry out your four-legged friend’s skin and make it itchy. Regular baths with moisturising dog shampoo can help ease this itch. As for spring – dogs tend to shed fur once warm spring weather arrives, since they don’t need such a thick coat anymore. You can help control your fluffball’s fluff by washing them often.
How To Know If You’re Washing Your Dog Too Much
By now, you know why it’s important to wash your dog and how to do it. But how exactly do you know if you’re washing your dog too often?
Your precious pooch’s skin produces protective oils that keep its coat healthy. Washing your dog too often can strip the skin of these oils and leave your doggy feeling down. A sure-fire way to tell if you need to cut down on the tub-time is if your dog’s skin is:
- Itchy
- Inflamed
- Sore
It’s always good to consult your vet to track down the cause of any of these skin symptoms. They can rule out ticks/fleas and allergies and guide you in finding the right tub-time timetable.
Dog Wash Near Me
One thing’s for sure – not all dogs love bath time and not all dog owners are confident enough to do bath time at home. Your four-legged friend deserves the best, so if the idea of doggie bathtime makes you wobbly, you might be better off calling in the professionals. If you’re close enough to a Kip it’s always a great idea to come in for a quick dog wash, but if you’re a bit further afield then searching for dog wash near me is a quick and easy way to see all the nearby available dog bathing experts, as well as more information such as customer reviews and website links. Remember, though, that dog wash near me searches will show you doggie bathing salons, as well as mobile dog washes. So, if you’re after a doggy hairstylist and grooming expert that’ll come to you, you may wish to search for mobile dog wash.
Mobile Dog Wash
If your dog wash near me search doesn’t give you the results you need, try looking for a mobile dog wash. There’s no shame in calling in the experts. After all, you want to give your pooch the best care you can, and if that means hiring an expert to come to you, then so be it!
Mobile dog wash salons are great for the times when you just can’t face bathtime or don’t have the time to get down to a local salon. These grooming experts will come to your home, so they’re super convenient, particularly if you have a doggy that doesn’t like to travel. Many mobile dog wash experts offer a range of services, from wash, blow dry, nail trim and even flea and tick treatments.
Mobile Dog Wash Prices
Mobile dog wash prices vary, depending on location and the services you go for, and it’s generally a good idea to request a quote in advance. In general, though, mobile dog wash prices tend to be around $30-$50 per hour. If that sounds a bit of a stretch, you can always go back to your dog wash near me search and see if any of your local pet grooming salons are willing to do a home visit.
Why Dog Wash?
Bathing your furball is important, and not just for the reasons you might think. Dogs need a wash to help maintain their skin, coat and general health. Washing your dog can be great bonding time. It also is a great chance to check for any suspicious lumps or fleas in between vet visits.
Washing your dog has many benefits. These include:
- Getting rid of the pong following your pooch
- Removing dead skin, debris and loose hair to keep your dog looking dapper
- Following your pooch’s medical treatment plan (if they have a skin condition)
Signs Your Dog Has A Skin Condition
One of the main reasons to wash your dog is if they’ve got a skin condition. Common skin conditions affecting dogs include ticks/fleas, impetigo and dandruff. Among other symptoms, hair loss, itching and redness can be a sign that your dog has a skin condition and needs to see a vet.
Over-washing your dog can actually cause some skin conditions. Washing your dog too often can strip doggy’s skin of its natural protective oils, causing dryness, irritation and inflammation – more on this later!
We hope this article has been helpful and you’re feeling confident about bathing your dog (and maybe even really looking forward to dog wash day!) If you have any doubt about the right splash-session schedule for your sweet pup, it’s a good idea to speak to your vet who’ll be able to help you.
