Getting Ready for Company: Bathing

 

So, you’re having guests over for the Holidays and you plan to have your four-legged family member in attendance too.  After all, it’s your party and you’ll have your dog there if you want to; which is fine as long as you keep your guests in mind.  Nothing is worse than a stinky, dirty dog jumping and rubbing up on you when you are dressed to impress.  And if you want your friends and family to come to the next party you host, you should probably be sure that Sparky is sparkling and on his best behavior.   

You may hate it as much as your dog does but it’s time to spell out that offensive four letter word……… B-A-T-H. 

Even if you take your dog to the groomer to have the dirty work done for you, there are things you should know about a dog’s skin before you go.  You might think twice if you knew how a bath can affect your dog’s health.

Dog’s oily skin attracts dust and dirt, and sometimes smells.  For people who allow their dog on the furniture and in bed with them, it isn’t unusual to bathe the dog once a month or even weekly.  This is not necessarily bad for dogs but a frequent bathing routine should be approached with caution.

Dogs have thin skin that is easily damaged.  Beneath the skin are special glands that produce an oily substance that coats hair and skin to protect it against moisture.  This waterproof layer also helps keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out.  Bathing with even mild shampoo can remove some of this layer.  For this reason, unless recommended by your veterinarian for a skin condition, you shouldn’t use medicated shampoo.   Medicated shampoos (like dandruff shampoo) are often too harsh and can cause more problems than they solve, making a skin condition worse.  If frequent bathing is needed then use only the mildest shampoo.

Also keep in mind that brushing and combing your dog’s fur regularly will not only remove loose hair (cutting down on the amount of vacuuming) but will remove dirt as well and prevent mats and tangles from forming.  Regular coat maintenance like this can cut down on the number of baths given each month.

*Weather Watch Tip:  Watch out for dry skin this fall.  If you find your dog is scratching more than usual, try using a moisturizing shampoo or conditioner, like oatmeal, to help relieve dry and itchy skin.