How Often Should I Wash My Dog?

As pet parents, we all want our dogs to be the best looking and smelling plus the healthiest at the park. But when it comes to washing your dog, how often is too often—or not enough? There is no one answer and it will depend on several factors including your dog’s breed, coat type, activity level, and any skin conditions they might have. DotDotPet have put this handy guide together to provide advice on how frequently you should wash your dog, what products are safe, and the best tools to use—like the right dog wash towels and oatmeal shampoo for dogs.

So, How Often Should You Wash Your Dog?

Generally speaking, most dogs benefit from a bath every 4–6 weeks. However, dogs with oily coats like Basset Hounds may need bathing as often as once a week, while breeds with water-repellent coats (like Golden Retrievers) or double coats (like Huskies) shouldn’t be washed too frequently, as it can strip natural oils from their skin.

If your dog loves an adventure and spends a lot of time outdoors, in the water or loves rolling in who-knows-what, you might need to give them a bath more often. Always assess by sight and smell—if your dog is dirty or smells unpleasant, it's probably time for a wash. Even if they don’t agree!

What Shampoo Should You Use?

This is crucial: Do not use human shampoo on your dog. Human products are formulated for our skin’s pH levels, which differ from those of dogs. Using human shampoo on your dog can lead to skin irritation or dryness.

Instead, opt for something like DotDotPet’s Dog Shampoo range which has an Oatmeal base. They are gentle, soothing, and perfect for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies. They are also formulated by coat type, giving your pup the care they deserve. The Oatmeal within our dog shampoos helps calm skin irritation, moisturizes dry skin without any harsh chemicals.

But What About Hand Soap?

You might be tempted to reach for the nearest soap in a pinch, but can you use hand soap to wash your dog? The short answer: it’s not recommended. Hand soaps, especially antibacterial ones, can strip your dog’s skin of its natural oils and may cause irritation. Stick to shampoos specifically formulated for pets to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.

Drying Matters Too: Use the Right Towels

After washing your dog, drying is just as important. Dogs have a tendency to shake off water—everywhere! Having the right towels for drying dogs can make a huge difference. Regular bath towels often don’t cut it because they’re too thick or small.

Choose your towels for dogs that are highly absorbent, quick-drying, like DotDotPet’s Bamboo bath towels or our natural biodegradable Eco Dog Towels. These dog wash towels are specially designed to soak up more water, speed up drying time, and make the post-bath cleanup easier for you and your pup.

Tips for a Smooth Bathing Experience

• Brush before bathing helps to remove tangles and loose fur.
• Use lukewarm water not too hot or cold.
• Find an easy to use bottle look for a shampoo like DotDotPet’s that has an easy to use bottle to help reduce stress in the bathroom!
• Rinse thoroughly to avoid residue that can irritate the skin.
• Reward your dog with treats and praise to build a positive association.

Conclusion

Washing your dog doesn't have to be a chore. With the right products like DotDotPet’s oatmeal shampoo for dogs and proper towels for drying dogs, bath time can be quick, comfortable, and even enjoyable for both of you. Remember, every dog is different, so pay attention to your dog’s specific needs and consult with your vet or your groomer if you're unsure how often to bathe them.