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People tend to do dog baths too often or not enough. Dog bathing should be done when needed. Your dog does not have to smell like a perfume bottle but also not like he just walked out of the local garbage dump either.

If you keep your dog well groomed, which means frequent brushing and keeping his sleeping area clean, you will not have to be bathing a dog more than every month at the most. Some breeds have more dog odor than others. If your dog is being groomed regularly and he begins to smell, it is time for a bath. But do keep in mind that more than once a month can dry the skin and coat.

Here are some guidelines for dog baths…

1. If your best buddy has gotten into something smelly, it is time for a bath. You can use a deodorizing or antibacterial shampoo for this job.

2. Normal dog odor - there are many shampoos that will be suitable for this job but one of the tearless ones is best.

**Note**If the odor from your dog is more that just ordinary dog smell, check with your veterinarian. It could be caused from infection of the ear, mouth or anal glands. Skin disease can also cause odor.

3. Dandruff - check with your vet or groomer to determine the cause and use the appropriate shampoo.

4. Allergies - this can cause your dog’s skin to be itchy. If a soothing shampoo such as a hydro-cortisone based shampoo is used it may relieve the itchy and be very soothing for your canine friend. Others that may be helpful for dog baths are the hypo-allergenic shampoos or an oatmeal one.

5. Fleas, tics, mites, or lice - shampooing is one of the best ways to get rid of external parasites and there are many appropriate shampoos that will fight fleas and ticks on your canine friend that have proper pH balance while cleaning and conditioning your dog’s coat.

6. If your best buddy has had a confrontation with a skunk, there are special shampoos for this type of odor.

7. A day at the beach - salt may cause itching and skin irritation.

A few other tips to remember about bathing . . .

1. Puppy Bathing - use shampoos that are especially formulated for puppies.

2. The younger you introduce your pet dog to bathing and brushing the easier it will be.

3. Shampoo can leave a residue which may irritate your best friend so rinse well after shampooing.

4. Do not use human shampoos on your pet, they are too harsh and have a different PH level.

5. You may want to add an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement to your dog’s diet for healthier skin and coat.

6. While some dogs enjoy the attention when having their bath others do not. If your dog is afraid of water and bath time is a battle, try one of the dry shampoos.

7. There are many options for shampoos, choose one that is right for your dog.

8. Wear old clothes you will get wet.

9. Be careful not to let fur go down your drain use a simple drain screen to protect your plumbing from hair clogs.

One final word on dog baths and grooming in general; your dog’s appearance says a lot about you and how you feel about your best friend. There is no such thing as a breed that requires no grooming.

Tags: Dogs

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