Bathing is an essential part of dog care, but it can be tricky to know how often is right. Too much washing can dry out the skin and remove natural oils, while too little may leave your dog smelling or uncomfortable. The right approach depends on your dog’s lifestyle, coat type and skin sensitivity.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
For most healthy dogs in Australia, a bath every four to six weeks is usually enough. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, enjoy swimming, or love rolling around in the grass may need more frequent baths. On the other hand, dogs with sensitive skin should be washed less often, and always with a gentle shampoo. Puppies should only be washed with puppy-safe formulas once they are at least eight weeks old.
Tips for a Better Bath Routine
Bath time can be much easier if you follow a few simple steps:
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Brush your dog first to remove tangles and loose fur.
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Use lukewarm water, never too hot or cold.
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Avoid sensitive areas such as eyes, ears and nose.
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Massage shampoo gently into the coat and skin.
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Rinse thoroughly so no residue is left behind.
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Dry your dog properly with a towel and, if tolerated, a low heat dryer
Between baths, you can keep your dog fresh with regular brushing, pet wipes, and spot cleaning of muddy paws.
Choosing the Right Shampoo
The type of shampoo you use matters. Human shampoos are not suitable for dogs because they can upset the natural pH balance of their skin. Products with strong perfumes may also irritate your dog’s sensitive nose. The best shampoos for dogs are pH balanced, free from harsh chemicals and designed with both skin and coat health in mind.
Pet Head Ditch The Dirt Orange Shampoo is one option that ticks these boxes. It contains charcoal powder to lift dirt, orange peel oil to neutralise odours, and aloe vera to help soothe the skin. It is vegan, pH balanced, and free from parabens and sulphates. The light orange scent keeps your dog smelling fresh without being overwhelming.
Give your dog a bath that is gentle, effective and refreshing. Shop Pet Head Ditch The Dirt Orange Shampoo at LifePaws and make bath time a positive part of your dog’s care routine.