Picking The Perfect Shampoo For Your Pooch

With summer months comes more time spent outdoors. You’re more likely to play outside with your pooch or take him on an open-air adventure. You may also be more likely to bathe him when it is warm outside. Depending on the frequency of bathing and your pooch’s skin and coat, there is a shampoo out there that will aid in those summer baths.

Before you pull out the water hose and grab a couple of towels, there is one important question to ask yourself: does your dog really need a bath? Over-bathing can cause your pooch to experience dry, itchy skin, and it is not ideal for his coat. Unless he’s been rolling in mud puddles or you can smell him from across the yard, then reconsider washing him. Often, a good brushing will get rid of dirt and grime, taking the place of a bath.

There are gazillions of pet products out on the market. Pet shampoo is no exception. Before you get overwhelmed in the pet store or lose your mind online, you need to figure out exactly what you are looking for. And, what you are looking for depends on your pooch.

For dry skin: Dogs experience dry skin just like humans. We do not always know what causes the condition, because it can be affected by anything from humidity to allergies to genetics. First, make sure that you are not the cause of the dry skin. If you bathe your pooch more than once a month or use human shampoo when you bath him, then you are probably stripping his skin of necessary oils. If you must bathe him more than once a month, then speak to your veterinarian for special shampoo suggestions. Also, make sure that he doesn’t have fleas (or other parasites) causing the dry skin.

Oatmeal shampoo is highly recommended to help soothe and treat dry skin problems. The oatmeal moisturizes and softens the skin. Oatmeal shampoo is also recommended to treat and heal scabs caused by flea irritation. Many oatmeal shampoos contain aloe, which also helps sooth the skin. For temporary itch relief, then consider a hydrocortisone shampoo. The hydrocortisone relieves itching from insect bites or minor skin irritation. Like the oatmeal shampoos, many hydrocortisone shampoos contain aloe.

For a long or thick coat: If your pooch has a long or thick coat, then you probably spend a ton of time combing out the tangles. Unfortunately, there is no miracle tangle-free shampoo on the market, but there are shampoos designed specifically for long-haired pups. You can also use conditioner on top of shampoo to make the coat softer; a softer coat is sometimes easier to comb. Like human conditioner, you can find wash-out, leave-in, and spray products. The amount of time you can spend bathing your dog may have an affect on what products you choose. For a long or thick coated dog, it is important that you take time to brush him frequently. Often, frequent brushing will reduce the necessity for conditioners.

For a short coat: You may be the luckiest of all dog bathers! If your pooch has short hair, then you probably do not spend hours on end trying to rid his coat of tangles or trying to treat his itchy skin problems. It is completely up to you on what type of shampoo you purchase, as long as you have your pet’s wellbeing in mind. If your dog has not had any adverse affects to the shampoo you are using, then you have no reason to change. Often, owners of short-haired dogs can even get by with using dry shampoo. To keep his coat healthy, look for deep conditioning or oatmeal-based products.

Before you use any type of pet shampoo, then make sure you are looking out for your pet. Consider his skin and hair type before you make a purchase. Never use human shampoo or other non-pet products in your home, because they are often too harsh and will more than likely irritate your pup’s skin. For a pooch with dry skin, look for shampoos containing oatmeal, aloe, or hydrocortisone. For pets with long or thick hair, try to find products that provide extra conditioning. Short-haired pups are a little easier to shop for, depending on preference. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your veterinarian. Your vet can help you figure out what’s right for you and your dog.