How often you need to wash your dog depends on a variety of things, including the dog’s breed, size, type of coat, and activities. Dogs that are frequently outdoors may need more frequent baths, while indoor dogs may need a bath only every few months. Baths can be scary for dogs, but with a little knowledge and preparation, you can make washing your dog a good experience for both of you. Before you bathe your dog, brush its fur thoroughly before the bath, and place cotton balls in your dog’s ear canals to protect it from getting an ear infection. Adjust the temperature in the bath so it’s warm but not hot. Wet your dog from the neck to its tail, making sure you fully saturate the coat, then pour a strip of shampoo down the dog’s back and massage it in. Lather up the dog’s entire body except for its head, then use a washcloth to gently clean the dog’s face. Rinse the dog completely, then pat it with a towel to dry. To read more on this story, click here:How to Wash a Dog
For a lot of new dog owners, it can be difficult to determine how often you should wash your dog. The truth is, the answer depends on a lot of things. “How frequently a pet needs a bath greatly varies based upon their breed, lifestyle, length of coat, and how much homework a pet owner is willing to do,” says Beth Cristiano, owner of Pretty Paws LLC, headquartered in Harrison, N.Y. The type of coat your dog has is a big factor in how often he requires baths. However, it’s not as simple as the shorter the hair, the less bathing required. Hairless breeds, such as the Chinese Crested and the Xoloitzcuintli, are actually quite care intensive, according to Cristiano, who says these breeds require weekly baths. At the other end of the spectrum are the long-coated breeds, such as the Maltese and the Collie. “Obviously, the more hair a dog has, the more work is involved, including the frequency of the bath,” says Jorge Bendersky, a celebrity dog groomer, pet expert, and best-selling author of “DIY Dog Grooming, From Puppy Cuts to Best in Show: Everything You Need to Know.” He adds, “For dogs with medium-to-large coats, a bath could be needed from weekly to every 4-to-6 weeks, as long as the coat is properly maintained in-between baths.” To read more on this story, click here: How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? Groomers Weigh In
