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Pet owners know when their dog desperately needs a bath. Perhaps your pup has rolled in some mud, or dog odors are beginning to permeate your home. Yet, aside from these few occasions when baths are clearly much-needed, how often should you be giving your dog a regular wash? Use the guidance below to establish a healthy pet grooming schedule for your four-legged friend.

Why Is the Right Schedule So Important?

Determining the perfect schedule for your pup’s baths can be tricky. Bathe them too frequently, and you could strip important oils from their coat, which work as insulators to regulate their body temperature.

Yet, routine baths can stimulate hair follicle growth and help promote healthy skin, especially in dogs that require frequent washes due to allergies.

Thus, it’s important to bathe your dog neither too frequently or infrequently for their unique needs. Fortunately, you can make the right call based on a few key factors.

What Are the Factors to Consider?

First, consider your dog’s coat. It’s not just the length that matters; it’s also the texture. In fact, many hairless breeds actually require more frequent baths (generally once a week) than others.

Medium- to long-haired coats, including breeds such as collies and the Maltese, may only need to have baths at four- to six-week intervals.

Bathe double-coated dogs, such as huskies and Labradors, even less frequently: seasonal washes are often enough to keep the coats and skin on these breeds healthy without stripping essential oils.

pet groomingOf course, lifestyle factors can also influence bath schedules. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, whether it’s at the beach, on the trails, or in a cow pasture, will obviously need to be cleaned more often than their indoor-dwelling counterparts.

To keep these pups grime-free without risking any damage to their skin or coat, use damp washcloths to eradicate dirt in between full-blown baths.

What Are Some Healthy Pet Grooming Tips?

Bath frequency is important, but it’s not the only pet grooming variable to consider. You’ll also need to use the right products to keep your pup safe and comfortable. Never use shampoos formulated for humans, as they have chemicals that could dry out a dog’s skin.

Instead, use products specially formulated for canines. If you have any concerns, such as shedding or skin conditions, ask your veterinarian for a specific recommendation for your pet.

 

Pet grooming can get a little complex, especially if you have a dog with a dense or long coat. At Hickman Creek Kennel, you can treat your pup to a first-rate grooming experience. In addition to their top-notch boarding facilities, this kennel provides pets throughout Jessamine County, KY, with training and grooming services to promote optimal health and comfort. Learn more about their grooming options by calling (859) 885-3647.

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