After days spent rolling around in mud, dirt, and leaves, it’s only natural that your dog will start to smell and need a bath. However, some pet owners are unsure how often to take care of this essential task. In general, most people should bathe their furry friend at least once a month as part of a regular dog grooming routine. However, this timeline might vary based on your dog’s unique fur type, lifestyle, and habits.

When Should You Wash Your Dog?

Healthy dogs regularly groom themselves to remove built-up debris and support healthy hair and skin. However, dogs that spend a lot of time outside might become too dirty for them to manage on their own. As a general rule, as soon as your furry friend starts to smell or you notice accumulated dirt or mud on their coat, it’s time to bathe them.

Long-haired, older, and ill pets could have more difficulty maintaining their own coats, which means you might have to schedule a bath more often. Meanwhile, small dogs that spend a lot of time indoors might be able to go as long as a few months without a bath. Their little paws and tongue will take care of most of the work for you.

Do You Need Special Products?

When you do bathe your dog, it’s important to do so properly. Be sure to use a veterinarian-approved shampoo and conditioner to clean and soften the coat. Depending on the type of coat your dog has, you should approach the task differently. For example, a dog with thick, prone-to-shedding hair needs vigorous brushing both during and after the bath for optimal fur and skin health. If you’re not sure how to best bathe your dog, speak with your veterinarian or a dog grooming professional.

Whether your pooch needs a bath or hair trim, consult the experts at Animal Care Center in Elk Grove, CA. For more than 10 years, the premier team of veterinarians and dog grooming professionals has provided the specialized care your pet needs to live well. To learn more about the animal care center, visit their website. If you would like to schedule an appointment for dog grooming, call (916) 686-7393 today.