In a recent TikTok video, user Pablo_Vet shared insights on canine hygiene, cautioning against over-bathing our furry friends. “Frequent baths can lead to increased oil production in a dog’s skin, ultimately causing them to smell even more,” he explained.
Pablo_Vet advises dog owners to give their pet’s skin a break by limiting baths to once a month, or less frequently if possible. Instead, he suggests maintaining a clean coat through regular brushing, which effectively tidies up without the need for water and soap.
Echoing this sentiment, fellow TikTok veterinarian Maria Vetican warns about the potential drawbacks of excessive cleanliness for dogs. She highlights that soaps, in particular, can upset the natural balance of a dog’s skin.
“Over-washing can strip their skin of essential oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable to infections or other skin issues,” Maria stated in her video on the platform.
Further emphasizing the need for restraint, veterinarian David Aldas, known online as doctoraldasvet, suggests an even more conservative approach. He recommends bathing dogs as seldom as three to four times a year.
When it comes to cats, David advises even less frequent baths, potentially limiting them to just once annually. Supporting this perspective, the Blue Cross animal welfare charity also suggests that dogs are best left unwashed for extended periods.
It says that unless your dog gets dirty or “rolls in something a bit gross” it is better to leave their natural oils to do “all the hard work”. The charity also stresses that dogs are “pretty great at self-cleaning”.
It says that drop-on flea and worming treatment will also be washed away every time you bathe your dog. It did however say that some dogs with skin conditions could need bathing more frequently, urging people to consult their vet.
When bathing your dog, the charity says it is best to use a specialist dog shampoo as it is gentler on the skin. However baby shampoo can be used as an alternative.
Dog owners are also urged to train their dog for the bath, offering lots of praise and treats if your pet is nervous. If your dog still seems hesitant in the bath, you can smear xylitol-free peanut butter on the tub to distract them as you wash them.
