While keeping your dog clean is important, it’s equally important to avoid washing them too frequently. In addition to contributing to skin disorders, doing so can dry out the skin and interfere with external worming and flea treatments.
Top tip: Even if water alone doesn’t do the job, it has a crucial role to play
If your dog is going to be bathed, you couldn’t just use products to clean it. On some occasions, as we’ve seen, water is enough. But even if it isn’t, it takes center stage, with shampoo and conditioner serving as its supporting cast members.
Water Rinses Out Some Dirt and Debris but Not All of It
A bath might be the best choice if your dog needs some attention after a walk or playing outside in the yard. A lot of the debris that is still present in your pet’s coat is easily removed with water. Your dog’s fur may occasionally not look like its usual color because you may not be able to brush it out.
On a white dog, like my Bichon, this is simple to spot. Freya’s legs occasionally appear gray rather than white when I brush them. That’s when I know more work is needed.
I can give you one piece of advice, though: keep a brush nearby so that you can use it when you get home from a dog walk. Much of the dirt and debris that your dog has accumulated can be brushed out before you even decide whether to give them a bath.
Do this outside or in a room that is enclosed, as I do. This makes for an easier clean-up for you afterward.
Can you wash a puppy with just water?
If you’re trying to wash your dog by yourself, avoid getting it even “a little bit” wet. Instead, fill up the bath with water and slowly pour it over your dog, saturating the skin and coat. Before using shampoo, make sure your dog is as wet as you can get him, especially if he has a full or long coat.
FAQ
Can I bathe my dog without shampoo?
Making your own dog shampoo at home will keep potentially harmful cosmetic chemicals off of your dog. When your dog needs to smell great but you don’t have time for a shampoo bath, baking soda works great. Baking soda and cornstarch or even a dry shampoo from your neighborhood pet store can be used for dry washes.
How often can I bathe my dog with just water?
Generally speaking, unless they seem smelly or dirty or you notice that it overdries their skin, you can bathe your dog about once a month. Note: Be sure to avoid over-bathing. Dry skin caused by over-bathing can be very uncomfortable. To maintain a healthy coat and skin, dogs require a specific amount of oil.
What can I use to bathe my dog if I don’t have dog shampoo?
- 2 cups of warm water.
- 1/4 cup of nontoxic dish soap.
- 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
Can I wash my dog with just water once a week?
Bathing your dog no more than once a month is typically sufficient if they have a healthy coat and normal skin. Do not bathe your dog more frequently than once per week unless your veterinarian instructs you to do so as this can dry out their skin and harm their fur.