95.5% of dog owners consider their pets to be a part of their family. So, if your dog is a member of the family, it should be a priority to keep them happy and healthy with a proper bathing routine.
Therefore, you may be asking, "how often should I bathe my dog?" There are many things that go into answering this question. Read on to find out how frequently your dog should have a bath.
The Importance of Bathing Your Dog
Owning a pet comes with a lot of responsibility. As a dog owner, it is your job to get your pup on a regular cleaning schedule.
Most dogs spend a lot of time outside, which can cause their fur to become dirty or matted. Outdoor elements can also leave them with irritated or inflamed skin. Routine bathing can help to ease any of this discomfort.
Dogs can also bring outside allergens into the home, so washing them can keep your home clean and your family healthy.
How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?
In general, you should bathe your dog at least once a month. However, the frequency in which you should wash your specific dog depends on many different factors. Here are just a few things to consider when planning a bathing schedule for your furry friend.
Your Dog's Coat
The first step to deciding how often your dog should have a bath is to determine its coat type. Their coat plays a considerable role in how little or often they should be bathed.
Dogs with short coats, such as Pugs or Beagles, can get away with having a bath three to four times a year. Due to the shorter hair, you usually do not have to worry about their fur becoming dirty or matted very quickly.
If you have a dog with a medium coat, such as a Golden Retriever or a Border Collie, you should bathe them at least once a month. Their hair is longer and softer, which requires them to have a more frequent grooming schedule.
Long-coated dogs, like Yorkshire Terriers, should have their hair washed every two to three weeks. These breeds should also be brushed at least once a day to avoid any matting.
If you have a dog with a wire, broken, or wavy coat, then their bathing schedule may be more difficult to figure out. Asking your local groomer is a great way to learn more about these breeds. Feel free to send us a message and ask us for some grooming tips.
How Active Your Dog Is
If your dog is constantly outdoors, then they will likely need a bath more often than those who aren't. Dogs who spend a lot of time outside can easily become dirty and smelly. If your dog has an odor or their fur is visibly unkempt, then it is a smart idea to bathe them or take them to the groomer.
Allergies or Skin Conditions
Just like humans, dogs also suffer from various skin conditions. If your dog has sensitive skin, then you will want to be careful not to wash them too much as this can lead to increased irritation or dryness.
There are a few things you can do to help your dog deal with skin issues. Try to choose shampoos and conditioners that are specifically made for dogs. Human skin is less sensitive than dog skin, so you won't want to use your own products on your pup.
You can also find products that are specifically made for dogs with sensitive skin. If your dog has dry skin, then you may want to check out our popular Oatmeal and Honey shampoo.
DIY vs. Taking Your Dog to a Groomer
Many people wonder whether it makes more sense to take their dog to a groomer or bathe them at home. In the end, it comes down to what you feel is best for your pet.
Bathing a dog at home generally takes more time and dedication. You have to make the time to properly groom your dog the way that their specific coat requires. You will also have to do some trial and error when it comes to choosing products that work best for them.
Some people prefer to groom at home if they know that their dog is not comfortable around other people. You can also groom on your own schedule, which is essential to many.
Taking your dog to the groomer is typically a better decision. Groomers are experienced and will know how to properly care for certain breeds and skin types. They also have all of the grooming essentials on hand, so you won't need to buy anything yourself.
Many professional groomers can also provide essential services such as nail trimming and ear cleaning.
One downside of professional grooming is that you pay to go each time. This price is worth it for many, however, to not have to spend the time doing it themselves.
If you want to have the best of both worlds, then check out our self-service dog washing option. This provides you with all of the essential products, but allows you to do the washing.
The Bottom Line on Bathing Your Pup
So, if you were asking yourself, "how often should I bathe my dog?" then we hope you now have some answers.
When it all comes down to it, you just want your dog to be happy and healthy. It is important to do your own research to determine your dog's specific needs. But don't be afraid to enlist the help of professionals!
If your dog needs grooming, then take a look at our services page. We would love to help you and your pup have the best experience possible.