Most dogs do best with a bath every four to six weeks — here's how to tell what your dog's coat needs.
Most dogs do best with a bath every four to six weeks. That rhythm keeps the skin healthy and the coat fresh without stripping away the natural oils that protect both.
Some coats need more frequent care, and some need less. Dogs who spend time outdoors, swim often, or have oily coats may benefit from a bath every two to three weeks, while double-coated and short-coated breeds generally do well on a longer schedule. Over-bathing can leave the skin dry, flaky, and itchy.
Use a shampoo made for dogs — human shampoo is too harsh for canine skin. Rinse thoroughly, since leftover shampoo residue is a common cause of irritation, and dry your dog completely afterward.