Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar
Menu
  • Home
  • Pet Portal
  • Our Services
    • Dogs / Cats
    • Exotics
    • Bovine
    • Equine
    • Farm Animals
  • Meet Our Staff
  • New Patient Center
    • Forms
    • Gallery
    • What to Expect
    • Veterinary Resources
    • Online Pharmacy
    • Payment Options
  • Contact Us
  • Blog
    • Videos & Radio
  • Emergencies
Round dog and cat logo

Countryside Veterinary Service

Cement City, MI

Online Pharmacy
Round dog and cat logo

Countryside Veterinary Service

Cement City, MI

  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Newsletter Library >
  • What To Know About Bathing and Grooming Your Dog

What To Know About Bathing and Grooming Your Dog

  • Created in Newsletter Library
Dog receiving a bath

How Often Should I Groom and Bathe My Dog?

If bathing your dog leaves you wetter than your pet, you may be wondering just how often you really need to wash your pet. Although most dogs don't require daily baths, washing them periodically improves their appearance, reduces odors, and helps keep their skin healthy.

When to Bathe Your Furry Friend

Dogs only need to be bathed every four to eight weeks, but the optimal time between baths varies depending on your pet's breed and coat type. If you notice your pet's coat is naturally a little oily, monthly baths may be ideal. (If your pet's coat isn't normally oily, ask your veterinarian if a skin condition could be the cause.)

Dogs that have double or water-repellant coats, like Australian Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, Akitas, Labrador Retrievers, and Newfoundlands, may only need baths every few months. Bathing them more often than necessary can cause dry skin. Short-haired dogs may also require less frequent bathing, as dirt usually doesn't become trapped in their fur and can be easily removed during grooming sessions.

Hairless dogs should be bathed more often than other breeds. In fact, weekly bathing may be needed to protect your Chinese Crested or American Hairless Terrier's skin. Lack of hair can increase the risk of dry skin and skin infections in these dogs. Regular bathing with a moisturizing shampoo removes dirt, debris, and bacteria while also reducing dryness.

Regardless of the coat type, your dog may need to be bathed more frequently if it enjoys rolling around in the mud, inspecting the neighbor's garbage or swimming in the ocean or a lake. If your pet is just a little dirty, you may be able to remove much of the dirt with a wet washcloth.

6 Dog Bathing Tips

Does your dog dread bath time? These tips may make the process a little easier:

  • Don't Overfill the Bathtub. You may enjoy immersing yourself completely when you take a bath, but your dog probably doesn't share your feelings. Three or four inches of water are ideal for medium or small dogs, but you'll only need an inch or two for small dogs. Dogs generally find lukewarm water most comfortable.
  • Brush Your Dog First. Brushing helps remove dirt and prevent mats. if you don't brush your dog first, you may spend more time than expected detangling your pet's wet fur.
  • Be Prepared. Collect the supplies you need before you start the bath. Constant interruptions only prolong the process and can stress dogs that don't particularly enjoy baths.
  • Provide Sure Footing. Sliding on the slippery tub floor may make bathtime unpleasant for your dog. Before you fill the bathtub, put a non-slip rubber mat or a towel on the bottom of the tub.
  • Don't Share Shampoo. Your shampoo is too acidic for your pet's skin and contains fragrances your dog may find unappealing or irritating. Using human shampoo may dry your pet's skin and increase the risk of developing a skin infection. Fortunately, you'll find a selection of dog-safe shampoos online, at your veterinarian's office or at pet supply stores.
  • Make an Appointment with a Professional. If bathing is an unpleasant experience for you and your dog, consider scheduling a grooming appointment for your pet.

Grooming Helps Keep Your Dog Clean Between Baths

Brushing your dog daily, or at least every few days helps keep mats and clumps to a minimum, removes dirt and loose hair, and distributes skin oils that keep the coat glossy and healthy.

Grooming sessions also provide the perfect opportunity to spot flea infestations. Although fleas may be too small to see, you may notice a few signs that your pet is infested, such as reddened skin, tiny red bites, hair loss or a collection of brown or red flea "dirt" on the base of the tail, abdomen, neck or ears.

While you brush your pet, look for rashes, hot spots, lumps, and bald spots. Call your pet's veterinarian for advice if you notice any of these symptoms. Thanks to regular grooming sessions, you may discover potential health issues before they can make your pet too uncomfortable.

Regular brushing and bathing help your pet stay healthy and well-groomed. Not sure how often to bathe or groom your dog? Give us a call. We're here to help you care for your pet, whether you have concerns about grooming or health issues. Contact our office to schedule your appointment.

Sources:

PetMD: Pet Health: Why Bathing and Brushing Are Important

https://pets.webmd.com/features/pets-bathe-groom-important#1

American Kennel Club: How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? Groomers Weigh In

Dogtime: Dogs 101: Everything You Should Know About Bathing Your Dog

Our Location

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours - Household Pets

Monday:

7:30 am-8:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-8:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Office Hours - Farm Animals & Equine

Monday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Featured Articles

Featured Articles

    Identifying Dementia in Senior Dogs

    Have you noticed changes in your older dog's behavior? ...

    Read More

    Keep Your Pets Safe From Toxic Household Items

    Do you know which household items can sicken your pet? ...

    Read More

    Preventing Obesity in Cats

    Even one extra pound could affect your pet's health. Find out how you can keep your cat slim and trim. ...

    Read More

    Pet Dental Care - Tips to Manage Your Pet’s Oral Health

    Do you know how to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy? ...

    Read More

    Learn How to Master Walking Your Dog for Walk Your Pet Month

    Does your dog need a little help walking on a leash? ...

    Read More

    Bringing a New Pet in the Home in the New Year

    Are you planning on adding a pet to your family this year? These tips will help you prepare for the arrival of your furry, feathered, or finned friend. ...

    Read More

    Cold Symptoms in Dogs

    Could your sneezing, sniffling dog have a cold? ...

    Read More

    Cold Weather Pet Safety

    Do you know how to keep your pet safe this winter? ...

    Read More

    Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays

    Keep Thanksgiving day safe for your pet by following these tips. ...

    Read More

    November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

    Do you know the symptoms that can occur if your pet has cancer? ...

    Read More

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Sign Up For More Articles

Testimonial

Testimonials

  • "Wonderful experience. Everyone was very friendly, staff was very knowledgeable and clearly love what they do! They treated my Gus as if he was their own. Thank you!"
    Abi E.
  • "I love you guys, and your caring ways. It's obvious everyone there truly cares about the animals."
    Shirley E.
  • "The staff is extremely friendly"
    Elizabeth D.
  • "Dr. Lane is amazing as always. She always takes the time needed and shows she cares."
    Mary M
  • "We are very pleased. Our vet is awesome."
    Maribeth K.
  • "The countryside is the absolute best vet office around."
    Nick L.
  • "Amazing office. We will never go anywhere else. I love each and everyone at the office. I always feel comfortable coming there. I can truly tell how much they love animals. Keep up the awesome work."
    Bob E.
  • "I very much appreciate the personal time spent with the dogs during the visits. Very thorough and makes the client feel like family."
    Lynnzie W.
  • "You guys are awesome. I wouldn't trust my pet with anyone else."
    Gwen D.
  • "My pet was comfortable and calm during the visit."
    Kathy S.
  • "Very helpful and friendly. We enjoy bringing our fur babies because we know they will be well taken care of."
    Tina A.
  • "I love the staff and the doctors are amazing. Keep doing what you are doing. Dr. Wintz treats our pets as if they were her own and she gives good, honest advice for their care."
    Laura L.
  • "They took great care of my leader dog momma for her ultrasound. The staff was great."
    Lora G.
  • "This business is the third vet service that I have used and I will stay with them even though there are four that are closer drives."
    Kenneth B.
  • "All the staff members are very professional and caring. Wonderful experience. I would recommend to family and friends. Keep up the amazing work."
    Jason W.
  • "Very friendly staff and clean in the waiting room."
    Anonymous
  • "I've been very satisfied with the treatment of all our pets since we started coming here. Keep up the good work."
    Mary M.
  • "The staff was super friendly and I loved how great they and the vet were with my new puppy. All I can say is keep up the wonderful job. I highly recommend you guys to everyone I talk to. They answered all my questions and even made sure I understood."
    Linda R.
  • "The exam room was outside because my dog refused to enter the building but the staff was very accommodating and helpful."
    Doug H.
  • "I am so pleased to have my lab being taken care of by the staff. They are all so friendly and always take the time to explain what is going on and always take the time for any questions I might have."
    Daniel M.
  • "You guys are awesome! Very polite, informative and helpful."
    Joshua W.
  • "Beautiful and clean! I was so happy with the staff. Pudge was very content with the staff and they were so sweet to him!"
    Amanda B.
  • "The staff is great. They did everything in their power to save a critically ill kitten I found. Very kind and talented people."
    Valerie G.
  • "This is an amazing vet office. I've always felt well respected here. The office inside and out is very clean. Everyone here is nice, not pushy or condescending. Thank you for being a reliable and comfortable place for our family to turn to."
    Amanda C.
  • "Everything is top-notch. We always feel welcome. We are very happy with the care our dog gets. We have recommended three friends to this clinic because we love it here so much."
    Sherri D.