How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog?
- Dr. Lila Brooks
- May 11
- 4 min read
Bathing your dog may seem like a simple task, but many pet owners find themselves unsure of how often it’s actually needed. Some worry they’re washing their dog too frequently and drying out their skin, while others are concerned they’re not washing them enough.
The truth is, there’s no single rule that applies to every dog. How often you should bathe your dog depends on a few important factors: their breed, coat type, lifestyle, and skin health.
This guide will help you find a bathing routine that works for your dog’s needs—without the guesswork.
Understanding the Basics
Most dogs benefit from a bath every four to six weeks. This general guideline helps maintain skin and coat health while controlling odour and dirt buildup. However, this timeframe isn’t set in stone. For some dogs, frequent baths can cause irritation or dry skin. For others, more regular washing is necessary to remove allergens, excess oils, or environmental debris.
Let’s take a closer look at what influences how often your dog should be bathed.
Coat Type and Texture
The type of coat your dog has plays a major role in how often they should be washed.
Short-haired dogs (like Boxers or Dalmatians) typically don’t trap much dirt or oil and can go longer between baths—often every 6 to 8 weeks.
Double-coated breeds (like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, or German Shepherds) benefit more from regular brushing than frequent bathing. A bath every 6 to 12 weeks is usually enough to keep them clean and healthy.
Curly or long-haired dogs (such as Poodles or Shih Tzus) may require more regular maintenance. Bathing every 3 to 4 weeks helps prevent tangling and matting.
Hairless breeds (like the Chinese Crested or Xoloitzcuintli) actually need more frequent bathing—often once a week—as their exposed skin is more prone to buildup, irritation, and oiliness.
If you're unsure of your dog’s coat type or what care it requires, your veterinarian or groomer can guide you toward a routine that supports both comfort and coat condition.
Your Dog’s Lifestyle
How often your dog needs a bath also depends on how—and where—they spend their time.
Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, especially those who love digging, swimming, or rolling in the grass, may need more frequent baths. The same is true for dogs that accompany you on hikes or visit muddy parks regularly.
In contrast, dogs that spend most of their time indoors or are walked mostly on clean pavement may not need bathing as often.
Bathing can also help remove allergens, pollen, and pollutants from your dog’s coat, so if your dog suffers from seasonal allergies or you live in a high-pollution area, more frequent bathing may be beneficial.
Skin Health Considerations
If your dog has sensitive skin or a diagnosed skin condition (such as dermatitis or seborrhoea), it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for bathing frequency and the type of shampoo to use.
In some cases, dogs may require medicated baths as often as once a week. In others, too much bathing can strip away essential oils and lead to dryness or irritation.
Watch for signs that you may be bathing your dog too frequently:
Flaky or dry skin
Increased scratching or licking
Dull or brittle fur
Redness or irritation after bathing
If you notice these symptoms, speak with your vet to adjust your routine and possibly switch to a gentler shampoo.
Spot Cleaning and Alternatives to Full Baths
You don’t always need to do a full bath to keep your dog clean. Spot cleaning can go a long way in maintaining hygiene between washes.
Pet-safe grooming wipes, a damp cloth, or even rinsing muddy paws in plain water can help manage dirt and odour without the stress of a full bath. Dry shampoos designed specifically for dogs are another option, especially for those that dislike water or have limited mobility.
Regular brushing also reduces the need for frequent bathing by distributing oils, removing loose fur, and preventing matting.
Choosing the Right Products
Always use a dog-specific shampoo. Human products, even baby shampoos, are not pH balanced for canine skin and can cause dryness and irritation.
For dogs with sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free or oatmeal-based shampoos. Dogs with medical needs may benefit from a medicated formula prescribed by your vet.
Conditioners can be useful for long-haired or curly-coated dogs, but they’re not always necessary. If you’re unsure, try using one occasionally and observe how your dog’s coat responds.
Making Bath Time Easier
Bathing doesn’t need to be stressful—for you or your dog. With the right approach, it can become a
calm, bonding experience.
Brush your dog before bathing to remove tangles and loose fur.
Use lukewarm water—not too hot or cold.
Place a non-slip mat in the tub or sink to help your dog feel secure.
Rinse thoroughly to avoid residue that can cause itching.
Dry gently with a towel or low-heat setting on a pet-safe dryer.
Always reward your dog with praise or treats to help build positive associations with bath time.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single answer to how often you should bathe your dog, but with a little observation and a basic understanding of their coat and lifestyle, you can find the right routine.
When in doubt, less is often more. Most dogs don’t need weekly baths, and their skin and coat will be healthier when natural oils are allowed to do their job. As always, if something seems off—itchiness, odour, or coat changes speak to your veterinarian. You know your dog best.
Taking care of your dog’s skin and coat is part of the bigger picture of keeping them comfortable, healthy, and happy. And when they feel good, you’ll feel good too.
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Dr. Lila Brooks
Veterinarian, wellness advocate, and firm believer that bath time should end with a towel burrito
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