I’ve lost count of how many times an owner has asked me, “Is it true that dogs should never be washed because it ruins their coat?” I always look at them in astonishment and reply, “Do you never wash your hair because it might get damaged?” I believe it’s important to dispel these common myths about dogs and start providing owners with the right knowledge so they can independently assess how often their dog should be bathed.
When is it appropriate to bathe your dog?
Just like us, who don’t bathe only when we’re visibly dirty, dogs also need regular washing. Even if our four-legged friend doesn’t often get dirty, it’s important to remember that their coat traps smog and fine dust particles daily. Unfortunately, unlike us, dogs cannot eliminate toxins through sweating.
Generally, dogs can be bathed even once a week. The key is to dry them thoroughly in all seasons and use professional products that respect their skin’s pH—human shampoo, for example, is too harsh and should not be used. On average, a dog that lives indoors without frequent opportunities to get dirty should be bathed every 25-30 days, roughly once a month.
Of course, common sense dictates that in exceptional cases, an unscheduled bath is unavoidable. For instance, if a dog has fleas, an urgent antiparasitic bath is necessary, as fleas lay numerous eggs, and the infestation must be controlled immediately. Likewise, if a dog runs off and rolls in an exciting animal carcass, a quick bath will be essential!
Do long-haired dogs need to be bathed more often than short-haired dogs?
The answer is “It depends.” If a family patiently brushes and cares for their dog’s coat daily, then the bathing frequency can remain as previously mentioned. However, if the family has a busy schedule and struggles to brush the dog regularly, then the answer is “Yes”—long-haired dogs require more frequent baths than short-haired or hairless breeds. Long fur tends to trap dust and dirt more easily and provides an ideal hiding place for parasites like fleas and ticks. Another risk for long-haired dogs is foxtails, which can get caught in the coat and penetrate the skin, causing serious issues.
Using a blow dryer and seeking professional grooming services can help monitor the dog’s skin health. Even though some breeds shed seasonally, regular stripping and grooming contribute to keeping the coat shiny and healthy, ultimately making the dog happier.
Finally, another reason why frequent bathing is recommended for long-haired dogs is that their coat can hide dermatitis or skin irritations, which are difficult to detect with the naked eye. In contrast, short-haired dogs make it much easier to spot any swelling or redness. Let’s not forget the psychological aspect: very few dogs enjoy being bathed and dried. Regular baths help them maintain the habit, making the experience easier for both the dog and the groomer. Most importantly, it shortens the grooming process, reducing the animal’s emotional stress.
If you have any doubts about how to care for your four-legged friend, don’t hesitate to contact the professional groomers at Wash Dog, the center partnered with Cocca Pet, where professional grooming goes beyond just bathing your dog. You’ll find attention and care, not only to enhance their appearance but also to provide them with moments of pampering and relaxation.
We hope we’ve cleared up some of your doubts, and we look forward to seeing you in the next article!
A warm greeting from the entire Cocca Pet team.
