Why should you wash your dog more often than you think?

Why you should bathe your dog more often than you think, and how to choose the right products

Dog washing is a subject of much debate. Every breeder, hobbyist, and neighbor who once owned a dog will have their own opinion on the matter. Each one has its pros and cons, but let's put together one more opinion here. 🐾

Whether you're "I only wash my dog if he starts looking like a mud squirrel" or "his coat smells like champagne all year round," one thing is for sure: it's important to find the right bathing frequency and products for your dog's skin and coat . The golden mean, if there ever was one.

In this guide, we will explain which factors influence the choice of washing interval and give tips on adjusting the washing interval without unnecessary adjustments.

So what factors affect the washing interval?

• Your dog's skin
• Your dog's coat
• Season
• Age and lifestyle
• Trim

How does your dog's skin affect the frequency of bathing?

A dog's skin is like a VIP skin care client: individual and a bit demanding. If the skin is in poor condition, it shows in the coat.

• Dry skin? It may unexpectedly need washing several times a week with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
• Oily skin? If your dog starts to smell like a "perpetually wet dog," it might be time to bathe him. A layer of oil is part of the skin, but it shouldn't smell like an old wool sock.
• Problem skin? Dandruff, itching or irritated skin can be caused by washing too often or too infrequently.

And how does the coat type affect it?

Is your dog's coat long and fluffy or short and smooth? This also affects:

• Short coat: While a short-coated dog like a Whippet may not need to be washed every week, don't fall for the generalization that "short coat = easy care." Hairless breeds, for example, need to be washed surprisingly often, along with other grooming.
  • For example, Lady Saloon shampoo is perfect for short hair.
• Long hair: Longer fur requires more frequent brushing – simply because detangling is no one's favorite chore.
  • For long coats, the nourishing Lady Jojoba Shampoo is suitable.
• Coarse coat: Bathing can sometimes soften the coat, which is undesirable for rough-coated breeds. Soft coat also makes it more difficult to care for between baths.
  • Lady Protein shampoo takes care of coarse hair.

Season – How do the winds and sun affect the washing interval?

• Spring and autumn : Mud season! Stomach and leg hairs get dirty quickly, and dirt can easily irritate the skin when it gets on your dog's skin. Choose a detergent for this time of year at the latest that won't dry out or weigh down the coat, even with short washing intervals.
• Winter : Cold weather dries out the skin, and snow clumps in the coat may require multiple washings.
• Summer : It is a good idea to wash your dog with a mild shampoo after swimming to prevent salt water, algae, or other natural water-borne irritants from irritating the skin. The sun can also dry out the skin and coat, so a moisturizing shampoo may be a good choice in the summer, even more often than usual.
  • A great moisturizing shampoo is Lady Soyance.

Age and lifestyle

• As the dog ages, the skin also becomes more sensitive and maintaining the same coat is no longer possible for the dog's well-being. In this case, it is worth washing it longer so that the skin's own oil can take care of the dog's skin. Washing can also be more stressful for an older dog and it can be harder to stay warm, so if the skin is too dry, you can use other supportive substances in addition to washing to care for it.
• The skin of puppies and young dogs is also more sensitive. The growth of adult hair and the first trims may sensitize the skin, so it is best to avoid washing, especially before the first trim.
  • A suitable shampoo for puppies is, for example, the mild Lady Baby.
• The frequency of bathing can differ even between the same breed, depending on lifestyle . A dog that loves mud pits requires a shorter bathing interval than one that enjoys the comfort of its own couch. A house dog may need less bathing than a dog that goes to shows more often. A dog that goes to the forest also needs a different bathing regimen than one that goes to shows in the ring.

Trimming – wash before or after?

It is recommended that you do not wash your dog before grooming! Wet hair quickly becomes hard as a rock, and the groomer may easily have to remove more hair (and perhaps even tear their own). Wash your dog after grooming if the groomer has not already done so. This is also because, for example, plucking may slightly irritate the skin or the cut hairs may remain itchy.

How to find the right products?

Washing your dog isn't just about slathering it with water - the right products can do wonders. Choose a shampoo (and conditioner) based on your dog's skin and coat needs. In our selection you'll find just the right products for your dog, whether they're moisturizing, cleansing or lightly scented (because no, a dog shouldn't smell like a perfume shop or a burnt 80s perm). 😄

Remember : bathing isn't just for cleanliness – it's important for the well-being of your dog's skin and coat. 🐕💦