Holiday Prep: Dog vs. Bath

We all want our dog to be pretty and smell good all year long, but especially during the Holidays when we are expecting company. 

Regardless of who is bathing your dog, there are some good things to know about a dog’s skin before you bathe her.  You might think twice if you knew how a bath can affect your dog’s health.

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.

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.  Additionally, you should not use human shampoo or conditioner since it has a different pH balance and the chemicals are too harsh.  If frequent bathing is needed then use only the mildest dog shampoo.

To avoid dry and itchy skin, use a moisturizing shampoo or conditioner, like oatmeal.  And try to only towel dry your dog; but if you need to use a blow dryer use the lowest or cool setting to do so.

With proper maintenance, you can go 6 – 8 weeks in between grooming visits (or baths).  Here are a few easy ways to keep your dog looking and smelling fresh long after a bath:

1.       Brush – A lot of times, brushing can be as effective as a bath.  Getting rid of dead fur and dirt will alleviate smells and leave the coat looking lustrous.  Regular brushing also keeps matted and tangled hair at bay.

2.       Wipe – If your dog is like mine, then he pees on himself (not on purpose, just being lazy).  Wipes are a great way to “wash” his fur without really washing it. And it will leave him with a fresh scent (at least for a little while).

3.       Spritz – You can find dog cologne in almost any pet supply store.  It comes as a spray for your dog and, while typically given after a bath, it is good to use anytime. The grooming product company, Espree, currently has holiday scented cologne – like peppermint candy cane, gingerbread, and sugar cookie – available online at www.espree.com.

Dachs 2 Danes offers full-service grooming (haircuts, nail trims, ear cleaning, baths, bows, cologne, etc.) to help make sure your pup is looking her best this Holiday season.  So whether it’s full grooming or just a bath, let us take care of the dirty work while you focus on more important things. Call Dachs 2 Danes today to book your next grooming appointment before the Holidays.