As a rule, it is recommended that dogs be bathed twice a month on average; however, recommended frequency will depend on breed, coat type, size, age, and lifestyle.
- Dogs with short-haired coats, like Bulldogs or Boxers, can be bathed twice a month; while fuller coated dogs like Yorkshire Terriers may require weekly bathing.
- Older dogs have a tendency to smell more (but we still love them), and require more frequent bathing.
- Dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors may also require weekly bathing.
- Toy breeds with short coats, like Chihuahuas who spend a lot of time indoors, can be bathed with less frequency, perhaps monthly.
- Most importantly, the dog should look and smell clean. He or she feels better that way: comfortable, and loved. If the dog is itchy and scratching, those are good signs that he needs a bath.
Grooming Tools and Tips
Always use the proper comb or brush for your dog's coat type. There are several companies who make excellent grooming tools designed specifically for the many different coat types.
- Comb and brush gently to prevent damage to the skin or breakage to the coat. If you can hear the sound of the brush, you are brushing too hard.
- Comb out all mats prior to bathing using the Isle of Dogs No. 61 or No.63 Detangle Spray. It is best not to comb out an entirely dry coat and bathing an already matted coat will worsen the problem.
- The best time to brush out a coat is after a bath while using a forced air or stand dryer. If you need to brush the coat after is dry, it is best to use a light misting of any of the Isle of Dogs grooming sprays.
On Bathing “Too Often”
We believe there is no such thing as bathing a dog too often, at least not if you’re using the right products. You can bathe your dog daily with no negative results whatsoever.
If you use human shampoos or soap, which are not properly pH balanced for dogs’ skin and hair, or shampoos that use high levels of chemicals, you could dry the dogs skin and coat.
Isle of Dogs™ products are specifically designed for dogs, and are completely safe to use as often as you like; as a matter of fact, the more you use them, the better maintained your dogs coat will be.
On the Process of Bathing
Properly done, grooming your dog need not be a chore and can be a lot of fun. Bathing your dog is an opportunity to bond. It is an intimate moment between you and your dog. It is a moment to show him or her how much you care; to feel their skin and make sure everything is all right with them. Ideally, you’ll start bathing your dog as a puppy. Be gentle, but lather and rub dirty areas as needed, as you might do on your own body. Don't rush the animal through the experience. Take your time in properly lathering and let the shampoo sit for a few minutes in order to let the natural oils sink into the coat. When bathing, care should always be taken to thoroughly rinse all traces of shampoo to prevent skin irritations. Care should also be taken to prevent water from getting into the ear canal or nose, while also preventing any products from getting into the dog's eyes.
Future Grooming Tips
At Isle of Dogs™ we are dedicated to building a library of useful grooming tips from breeders, handlers and owners for every breed of dog and coat type provided by breed experts.
"If you get to thinking you are a person of some influence, try ordering someone else's dog around."
-Will Rogers
