With your dog enjoying himself outside on these nice summer days, most likely he'll be needing a bath more often them normal. Rolling on the grass, swimming, and staying outside will leave him with that dirty dog smell, and you saying he needs a bath. On that note, one question a lot of owners ask is "How often should I bathe my dog?" Well, that depends. First determine what type of skin your dog has, by spreading his fur out and observing his skin. If it feels dry, flakes, or he itches frequently, he almost assuredly has dry skin. If your hands feel oily after petting him, or he has a naturally "musty" smell all the time, he most likely has oily skin. Dogs in between are considered normal. Dogs with dry skin should get bathed the least, or use a specific shampoo for dry skin. For dogs with oily skin, owners should use a "degreasing" shampoo, and bathe more often, but not more than once a week as it will deplete their healthy oils. Normal dogs will fair well with regular dog shampoo, and baths when needed. You should never use human shampoo on dogs, as the PH (acidness/alkalinity of a liquid) is to low for dogs. That would leave dog's coats dull, complicate dry skin, and leave their hair scraggly. Dogs with skin allergies should always be bathed with a hypoallergenic shampoo. Diet is also a major factor in your dog's skin and coat, and can sometimes solve dry or oily skin. I've compiled a list of the best rated shampoos for the three main conditions, dry, oily, and sensitive skin. I've tried to look at natural for this article, as almost all synthetic chemicals/scents are harsh on dogs skin and coat.
Normal/slightly dry skin: Hydraplex® plus Original Aloe-vera Oatmeal shampoo and spray. This is currently one of the top rated shampoos for dogs. It is formulated with essential omega-3 oils, and amino acids to create the perfect PH balance. In addition, it contains Zinc-PCA, with 90% of dogs lacking zinc in their coat, it rejuvenates and revives their skin and hair, for a beautiful shine, healthy glow, and soft feel. This shampoo is also top rated for slightly dry skinned dogs, with the aloe and oatmeal moisturizing and protecting. Usually packaged with the shampoo, is their leave-in spray. Quick and effective, loaded with the same essentials as the shampoo, it cleanses your dog in seconds. Both shampoo and spray are all natural, in three scents, peppermint, spearmint, and lavender. 9oz shampoo and 8oz spray, both for $21.99.
Oily skin: I had a no luck finding a natural "degreasing" shampoo. However, the most recommended ingredient for stripping grease and oils from dogs is benzoyl peroxide. It is also anti-bacterial, anti-itch, and removes dead skin cells. Benzoyl-Plus® shampoo is the leading medicated shampoo with that ingredient. Lather your dog and wait 10-15 minutes then rinse well. The waiting time will allow the formula to penetrate the skin and fur follicles, stripping the grease effectively. Talk to your veterinarian before using, and he will prescribe frequency of use. There are many different varieties for treatment, so it would be hard to give you a definitive price range.
Hypoallergenic: Vets Best® Hypoallergenic shampoo. This gentle tearless formula, cleanses your pooch without soap, leaving sensitive skin unharmed. Also great for dogs with extremely dry skin, as this shampoo with soothe rough, scaly, and itchy skin. Unscented, 16oz $9.99
Spray/conditioner: An outstanding "no bath" spray is the FURminator® waterless deshedding conditioner. Loaded with a fresh scent, and natural essential oils, it keeps our dog's fur slick and shiny, and smelling great all the time. It also reduces shedding, and when paired with a FURminator® comb, practically eliminates it. 8oz $8.99
There are many other categories of shampoos, like deshedding,odor control, or conditioners for glossy fur, so take a look around. Remember, if your dog has extremely dry or sensitive skin, its best to let your vet give him a checkup, or recommend a proper shampoo. Simple natural routes tend to be easier and safer though. For example, we live in the woods and our dog was getting more than 3-4 ticks a week. We added a few drops of bug repelling eucalyptus oil to his shampoo, and not only does it keep his odor down, but he now rarely gets ticks. Consider your dogs shampoo, it may make him AND you happier. Thats all for this month, goodbye!
