Do you have one of those dogs that loves to roll in mud and splash through puddles or is your pupper a more refined inside type? No matter which, it is still important that they are given a wash every now and then. It will keep them looking their best and smelling fresh and is an important part of grooming.
Why do you need to wash your dog?
One of the main reasons to wash your dog is to prevent them bringing their dirt and smells inside your home. Dirty paws on the couch or bed are not usually welcome and let’s face it, snuggling up to a sweet smelling pupper is nicer.
An important part of the washing process is getting rid of painful tangles that can occur with a build-up of dirt and grass seeds – and sometimes mud! It will also help to get rid of that ‘doggy’ smell as you scrub away old oils and remove shedding fur.
Bath time is also a perfect opportunity to check your pupper for any scrapes or parasites and keep on top of any changes that you may need to discuss with your vet. Whether you wash your dog yourself or prefer to use a groomer it is important that you do these checks regularly to keep on top of your pup’s health.
How often do you need to wash your dog?
We recommend not washing more than once a fortnight and at least every 3 months. Bathing too frequently can strip natural oils from your pupper’s fur, which they need to keep their coat and skin healthy. Dogs with oily coats or longer hair attract more dirt and will require more regular baths. Basset Hounds and Labrador Retrievers fit into this category. If you have an active pup that does a lot of hiking or swimming and tends to roll in dirt, then more regular washing is recommended. Puppies and more senior dogs may benefit from less frequent baths as they are more sensitive.
What you use to wash your pup is just as important as how often you wash them. Never use human products on your dog, including shampoo, conditioner or toothpaste. While these might be safe for you, they’re not for your pup and may have harmful ingredients. Make sure to look at the ingredients lists of any products you pick for your pupper. Try to avoid synthetic ingredients, and pick all-natural products where you can.
If your dog has a skin condition they may need special shampoos or a different washing routine. Your vet will be able to advise on suitable shampoos and the frequency of baths. Our vet, Dr Matthew Muir recommends a soothing 5-minute soak in lukewarm green tea or chamomile for itchy paws.
What about brushing?
Brushing is a very important part of your dog’s grooming routine and should be done at least every 2-3 days. It prevents matting, removes excess hair and debris, and can help with shedding of a seasonal coat, keeping your dog’s skin and fur clean and healthy.
In the meantime, it is important to keep up with other aspects of your dog’s grooming like brushing teeth and nail trimming.
Lyka: the ultimate reward
To keep bath time positive a little reward is sure to be well received. What better way to congratulate your pup on a job well done than giving them a delicious and nutritious Lyka meal – try a Starter Box today!
