Is it time for a dog bath? While humans tend to bathe every day, dogs sometimes go weeks or even months between baths, and some may go on much longer. With various lifestyles and needs, it is difficult to know how often a dog needs a bath, well until they fail the sniff test. Here are some things to consider, and some tips on when you should get your dog bathed.

How Often Should a Dog be Bathed?

Regular baths, nail trims, and ear cleaning are essential to your dog’s health, and can certainly go a long way in the prevention of things such as infections and skin irritations. However, a recent survey of dog owners suggests that only about half of all dog owners get baths as often as they should; most rely on the smell test to know when it is time for a dog bath. While some experts suggest dogs get a bath every 1-3 months, different activities, lifestyles, and personal preferences may make more frequent baths necessary.

Your Dogs Activity and Lifestyle

Dogs who are active, outside a lot, and very active will likely need to be bathed more often. This is especially true if they are prone to playing in the dirt, the pool, or generally just good at making or getting into messes. Owners should also look at their own lifestyles when asking the questions of how often to get a dog bath. Owners who are active are likely to have active dogs and control of orders and dirty coats become a frequent activity. Spring and summer months also tend to be more active for owners and their dogs, and an increase in bath frequency.

Your Dogs Coat and Skin Condition

Most dogs with short coats, smooth skin, and no skin issues may not need to be bathed often. However, dog breeds with longer coats or curly hair will require more frequent baths to preserve their coats and to keep their fur from matting. Avoiding baths can lead to serious problems for your dog. Matted fur can cause moisture to be trapped in a dog’s fur, leading to bacteria growth causing skin irritations, rashes, and even sores. This may be a bigger problem during warmer months or in humid climates.

Allergies and Skin Problems

Just like their human owners, dogs can have skin problems that impact their need for baths. In some cases, dogs with skin irritations or allergies may benefit from medicated shampoo to help treat the irritants. Dry or itchy skin too may be helped with an aloe or oatmeal shampoo to help soothe and cool your dog’s skin. Another consideration is the allergens your dog may bring into your home. With spring around the corner, and likely your dog will be more active outside, your dog is more likely to pick up allergens that can impact you and your dog’s health.

Can You Bathe a Dog Too Much?

While regular baths are a good thing for your dog, washing your dog too often can lead to challenges as well. Excessive baths can strip away natural oils in your dog’s coats and skin. This too can lead to dry, itchy skin and dull coats. If your dog requires frequent baths, make sure to use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners to help replenish your dogs skin.

Overall, dog bath frequency may come down to personal preference and frankly, how they smell around the house. However, if you find yourself with questions ask our grooming staff for specific tips for your dog’s bath frequency, shampoo recommendations, and other insights that will help your dog to have a healthy and great-looking coat. Click here to learn more about our grooming and dog baths.