Some owners will do dog baths too often and others too little. Common sense prevails here; bath when needed. Your dog does not have to smell like he just walked out of a salon but smelling as though he just got out of a dumpster is not good either.
Specifically formulated shampoos for dogs are safe and have the correct PH balance. The type of shampoo you use will depend on your best friend's skin problems, age, etc. (see guidelines below) How often you wash your pet will depend on what he has been up to or into. But do keep in mind that more than once a month can dry the skin and coat.
Here are some guidelines for dog baths...
1. Bath when your pet dog may have been into some nasty smelling substance. Antibacterial and deodorizing shampoos are available for this.
2. He has simple doggy odor - use one of the many tearless dog shampoos on the market.
**Note** If the smell is more than a doggy odor, it could be a sign of a skin disease, a problem with the ears, mouth or anal glands. Check with your veterinarian.
3. Dandruff - a veterinarian will be able to determine the cause and advise you which shampoo would be best for your buddy.
4. Allergies - bathing a dog with allergies can be soothing for itchy skin. Try oatmeal, a gentle hypo-allergenic or hydro-cortisone based shampoo.
5. External Parasites - if your dog has fleas, tics, mites or lice use a shampoo specific for this problem. Bathing is one of the best methods of ridding your pet of these parasites while cleaning and conditioning his coat.
6. If he's been Skunked! There are shampoos specifically for this.
7. If your dog has been in salt water give him a bath, salt may irritate the skin.
Dog Bathing Tips
1. If you are bathing a puppy use a shampoo that is specially formulated for puppies.
2. The younger you introduce your pet dog to bathing and brushing the easier it will be.
3. Shampoo can leave a residue which may irritate your best friend so rinse well after shampooing.
4. Human shampoos should not be used on dogs. The PH level is not the same.
5. You may want to add an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement to your dog's diet for healthier skin and coat.
6. While some dogs enjoy the attention when having their bath others do not. If your dog is afraid of water and bath time is a battle, try one of the dry shampoos.
7. There are many options for shampoos, choose one that is right for your dog.
8. Wear old clothes you will get wet.
9. Use a drain screen so that your dog's hair does not clog up your plumbing.
One final word on dog baths and grooming in general; your dog's appearance says a lot about you and how you feel about your best friend. There is no such thing as a breed that requires no grooming.