Vets have revealed that many dog owners may be washing their pets too frequently, which can actually worsen odor and damage the skin's natural protective oils. Contrary to popular belief, bathing a dog more than once a month is discouraged by veterinarians.
Expert Opinions on Bathing Frequency
Veterinarian Pablo Antonio Olmedo González, in a social media post, emphasized that bathing should be kept to a minimum. He explained that a dog's skin has a protective oil layer essential for its wellbeing. In a TikTok video, he stated: "If we bathe them too frequently, the skin produces more oil, and there comes a point when the dog will start to smell more. So, the solution is to let that skin have a rest. Therefore, bathe them at most once a month, and if you can stretch it out further, all the better. What I recommend is regular brushing, which will keep your dog's coat clean without any trouble."
Another TikTok veterinarian, Maria Vetican, echoed similar concerns, highlighting that soaps can disrupt the natural equilibrium of an animal's skin. She added: "They can dry out their skin and reduce the natural oils that protect them. Washing too frequently can make the skin more susceptible to infections or skin problems."
Further Recommendations
David Aldas, a vet known online as doctoraldasvet, suggests even less frequent bathing, recommending dogs be bathed only three to four times a year. He also advises that cats require washing even less often, potentially just once annually.
Animal welfare charity Blue Cross states that dogs are "better left without being washed for as long as possible." The organization explains that unless a dog becomes muddy or "rolls in something a bit gross," it's preferable to allow natural oils to do "all the hard work." They emphasize that dogs are "pretty great at self-cleaning." Additionally, they note that drop-on flea and worming treatments are removed each time a dog is bathed. However, they acknowledge that some dogs with skin complaints may require more frequent bathing and encourage owners to seek veterinary advice.
Best Practices for Bathing
When washing a dog, the charity recommends using a specialist dog shampoo as it is gentler on the skin. Baby shampoo can serve as an alternative. Owners are also encouraged to prepare their pet for bath time, offering plenty of praise and treats if the animal appears anxious. For reluctant dogs, spreading xylitol-free peanut butter on the tub can keep them occupied during washing.
