While humans have skin pH levels of about 5.5, the pH level of dog skin is around 7.5 and, therefore, more alkaline. This makes using your shampoo on your favorite pooch a bad idea since its acidity content strips doggy skin of moisture. Learn what veterinarians routinely recommend in terms of dog shampoo to keep your canine’s skin and hair healthy and beautiful.

What to Know About Selecting Dog Shampoo

The Coat Factor

Use your dog’s coat type to help determine the best shampoo choice. If you have a Vizsla, Chihuahua, Rottweiler, or another canine with thin or fine hair, you need a shampoo designed for single-layer coats. These shampoos cleanse without stripping these often-oily coats. Since many thin-haired dogs do not acquire dust and dirt the way thicker-haired canines do, you can usually bathe them about every six to eight weeks.

Medium and thick-haired dogs require stronger shampoos that can cut through the extra coat layers to condition the skin and strands. Look for products formulated for your dog’s coat type while keeping the rinse factor in mind. The best products rinse easily to prevent irritation and should be used about every four to six weeks depending on the breed.

Skin Type & Ingredient Recommendations

If your dog has sensitive skin that’s dry and itchy, veterinarians recommend gentle products formulated with soothing ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and tea tree oil. Medicated shampoos are best if your pooch has a bacterial or fungal growth issue because it treats the infection and soothes existing irritation.

If your dog has a flea or tick problem, ask your veterinarian for shampoo recommendations that kill adult parasites upon contact and remove them from the canine’s coat. Avoid shampoos with soap ingredients if you are using a topical flea treatment, as soap strips these treatments of oils that help them remain effective.

Regardless of your pet’s skin type, it is generally best to use shampoos with natural ingredients over harsh, drying, irritating chemicals such as parabens, fragrances, sulfates, and artificial colors. Look for products with “paraben-free” and “hypoallergenic” labels. 

Discuss the best grooming regimen for your canine with the veterinarians at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital to enjoy a happy, healthy dog for years. The veterinary hospital features two convenient locations in Columbia, MO, and offers pet grooming among many other services, including boarding and laser surgery. Call (573) 449-7387 today to book an appointment or visit the veterinarians online for more information.