How often should you wash your dog?

Some dogs just smell. They haven’t rolled in anything, (today anyway,) they just have a strong doggie odor. While you’re dog may be mystified as to why you don’t want to snuggle, natural dog smell can be pretty strong if left untended.

On the other hand, washing a dog too frequently can lead to dry, itchy skin. If you’re trying to strike a balance between stinky and dry, here are a few tips on how to figure it out.

Breed of dog

Certain types of dog must be bathed at least once a week in order to be healthy, but it’s probably not the breed that first comes to mind. Hairless breeds, such as the Xoloitzcuintli or Chinese Crested get very oily skin, and they need regular bathing to help strip the excess oils.

Other breeds, such as the Puli, are bathed as little as possible when their coats are corded, because washing and drying them is very time intensive.

The bottom line

Unless you own a breed that has unusual needs, such as a Puli or a Chinese Crested, average time between baths is around 4-6 weeks. This includes most breeds of dogs that need regular haircuts, such as Maltese and Shih tzus, as well as high shedding breeds such as German Shepherds and Dalmations.

Although breed is important, it also depends on the lifestyle of the dog and their individual needs however. Some dogs never seem to need a bath, while others need medicated baths for skin problems or other treatments.

If you’re unsure as to your dog’s specific needs, talk to your groomer to find out how often they recommend washing for your particular dog. They’ll be able to advise you on how often your dog should be bathed.

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-often-should-you-wash-your-dog/