How often should you bathe a dog? A guide by coat type

There's no single answer

How often to bathe depends on the dog. An indoor dog with a short coat and healthy skin may need a bath every month or two. One that runs through fields, rolls in mud or swims often will need more. And some dogs with skin problems should be bathed as the vet directs, sometimes with medicated shampoos several times a week.

By coat type

• Short coat (boxer, beagle, Labrador): every 1 to 3 months is usually enough, with weekly brushing.
• Long or silky coat (shih tzu, Yorkshire terrier, Maltese): every 3 to 6 weeks, with almost daily brushing to prevent mats.
• Curly, low-shedding coat (poodle, bichon): every 3 to 6 weeks, usually with a haircut.
• Double coat (husky, German shepherd, golden retriever): few baths, every 2 or 3 months, but lots of brushing, especially during shedding season.
• Wiry coat (schnauzer, terriers): every 1 to 2 months, with coat maintenance.
• Oily skin (some basset hounds or cocker spaniels): may need more frequent baths with a specific shampoo.

Why over-bathing is a bad idea

A dog's skin is thinner than ours and has a different pH. It also produces natural oils that protect the skin and make the coat shine. Bathing too often, or with human shampoo, strips that protection and can cause dryness, dandruff, itching and even more odor, because the skin produces extra oil to compensate.

Signs it needs a bath

• It smells bad even after drying off.
• It rolled in something dirty or smelly.
• Its coat looks greasy, matted or visibly dirty.
• It has mud, sand or salt on it after a walk.

If the odor comes back very quickly, or comes from the ears, mouth or reddened skin, it's not a bathing problem: there may be an infection and it's worth seeing the vet.

How to bathe it, step by step

1. Brush first. Removing mats and loose hair makes the bath easier and more effective.

2. Get everything ready. Dog shampoo, towels, treats and a non-slip mat.

3. Lukewarm water. Not cold, not hot. Wet it from the neck back and avoid getting water in the ears.

4. Work the shampoo in. Massage down to the skin, not just the coat. Clean the face with a damp cloth.

5. Rinse very well. Leftover shampoo causes itching. Rinse until the water runs clear of suds.

6. Dry thoroughly. Use towels and, if it tolerates it, a dryer on low heat. Moisture trapped against the skin encourages yeast, especially in dense coats.

How to make baths less scary

Start in puppyhood, with short baths and lots of treats. Speak calmly, use a mat so it doesn't slip and be patient. If your dog is very afraid, go in steps: first stepping into the empty tub for treats, then wetting just the paws, and so on. A calm bath is better than a quick, stressful one.

Between baths

Regular brushing is the best way to keep it clean without frequent baths: it removes dirt and dead hair and spreads natural oils. Wipe its paws after walks and check its ears once a week. It's also a good time to check nails, skin and parasites. If you find fleas, read how to get rid of fleas, and log its parasite treatments in the vaccine record.

What about puppies?

Puppies can be bathed when your vet says it's appropriate, usually from about 8 weeks and as long as they're healthy. Use a gentle puppy shampoo, keep the bath short and dry them very well, since they chill easily. If they're only a little dirty, a dog wipe is enough.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use baby shampoo? It's not ideal. A shampoo formulated for dogs respects their skin's pH.

Can I bathe it after applying flea treatment? It depends on the product. Many ask you to wait 48 hours before and after bathing: check the instructions.

Is it better to bathe at home or at the groomer? Both are fine. Groomers are helpful for heavy coats or special cuts.

Why does my dog smell even after a bath? There may be an ear, dental or skin problem. See your vet.

This article is for information only and does not replace a visit to your vet.