Most dogs need a bath every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on breed, coat, and activity.
Typical frequency
Most dogs need a bath every 4 to 8 weeks. The AKC says it depends on coat, activity and skin condition.
By coat
- Short smooth coats: every 1 to 3 months.
- Double coats (Huskies): every 3 to 4 months or less.
- Long coats: every 4 to 6 weeks.
- Dogs with skin issues: as the vet directs.
Too often
Strips natural oils and dries the skin.
Tips
- Use dog shampoo (human shampoo has the wrong pH).
- Rinse well.
- Brush first.
- Dry thoroughly.
Between baths
Wipes and brushing.
Active dogs
Swimming or rolling in dirt may need extra washes.
Typical frequency
Most dogs do well with a bath about every 4 to 8 weeks. Some veterinarians suggest once a month for dogs with normal skin, and the American Kennel Club notes that the right schedule depends on coat, activity and skin condition. A dog’s skin is more sensitive than human skin, with a pH of about 6.2 to 7.4 compared with 5.5 for humans, so human shampoo is not recommended.
By coat
- Short, smooth coats such as Beagles and Boxers: every 6 to 8 weeks, or when dirty.
- Double coats like Huskies and Labradors: every 8 to 12 weeks, with regular brushing. Over-bathing strips natural oils.
- Long coats such as Shih Tzus and Maltese: every 3 to 4 weeks to prevent matting, with daily brushing.
- Curly or poodle coats: every 4 to 6 weeks with a professional groom.
- Hairless breeds: weekly to control oils.
- Dogs with skin conditions: as prescribed by a veterinarian, which could be weekly with a medicated shampoo.
Too often
Bathing too often removes natural oils, causing dry, itchy skin and a dull coat. Dogs bathed weekly with mild shampoos can still be fine, but repeated baths with harsh products can cause irritation and secondary infections.
Tips
- Brush before the bath to remove tangles and loose hair.
- Use lukewarm water and a shampoo made for dogs. Oatmeal shampoos suit dry skin.
- Avoid getting water in the ears and eyes.
- Rinse thoroughly, since leftover shampoo irritates skin.
- Dry with a towel or a low-heat dryer, especially for thick coats, to prevent hot spots and fungal growth.
- Reward calm behavior with treats.
- Use a non-slip mat in the tub.
Between baths
Wipe paws after walks, use dog-safe grooming wipes, brush regularly, wash bedding weekly and use dry shampoo made for dogs. Keep ears clean, trim nails and brush teeth.
Active dogs
Dogs that swim, roll in mud or work outdoors may need more frequent rinses with plain water, and a full bath when dirty. After swimming in pools or the ocean, rinse out chlorine or salt. A strong odor that returns soon after bathing may point to ear infection, skin infection, dental disease or anal gland issues, and warrants a vet visit.
Dog skin pH and bathing frequency
Dog skin has a pH of about 6.2 to 7.4, which is more neutral than human skin at about 5.5, so human shampoo can irritate it. Use shampoos made for dogs. Most healthy dogs do well with a bath every 4 to 8 weeks, according to many veterinary sources, though dogs with skin conditions may need medicated baths as often as once a week as prescribed. Short coated breeds such as beagles can go longer, whereas Poodles and Doodles with continuous hair growth often need grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Rinse completely because shampoo residue causes itching. Brush before bathing to remove mats, which tighten when wet. Dry thoroughly, especially skin folds and ears, to prevent yeast infection. Use lukewarm water around 98 to 102 F.
Based on data from the American Kennel Club and the American Veterinary Medical Association
