How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? (By Breed & Coat)

Many dog owners find confusion with how often to bathe their pet. Some like to bathe weekly while others may go months without, leaving them smelly.

Over the years I have had different types of dogs from short haired, long haired and double coated. Depending on the coat type and how muddy/dirty your dog gets will effect how often they need to be bathed.

Average dogs

In most cases it is best to bathe around every 4-6 weeks. Bathing more than this can cause your dogs skin and coat to become dry due to stripping away the natural oils. However, not bathing them enough can cause dirt, oil build up and smelly.

I have found that if you over bathe your dogs they often become dryer and may become more itchy. Not bathing enough can cause their coat to become oily or cause skin issues due to dirt getting trapped. Finding a happy medium is best.

Based on coat type

Short haired dogs (Beagles, Boxers, Labs) generally won’t need to be bathed very often. Often every 6-8 weeks is enough, unless they roll in anything or get very muddy.

Long haired/double coated (Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies etc) often need to be bathed a little more carefully. Usually every 4-6weeks however it is more important to ensure you brush them regularly. Bathing them too often can cause issues with their undercoat.

Wire haired/curly coated (Poodles, Schnauzers, Doodles) generally need to be bathed more regularly. Around every 3-4 weeks is usually enough as their coat can become quite dirty and tends to matt. They will often need to be professionally groomed.

Hairless or very short haired dogs may need to be bathed more regularly as their skin is more exposed. However, it is best to not over do it. Often every 2-4 weeks with a mild shampoo is enough.

Based on lifestyle

How muddy/dirty your dog gets will be a bigger factor than their breed.

If your dog goes hiking, swimming or playing in mud then they will need to be bathed more regularly than a dog that stays inside. My dog used to come home very muddy with lots of dust and pollen so would often have to be bathed every 3-4 weeks. Whereas dogs that stay inside and don’t get very muddy can often be bathed every 6-8 weeks or more. As long as they are being brushed regularly.

Signs they need bathing

Don’t stick strictly to a schedule. Instead look out for:

• Smelly
• Oily looking coat
• More scratching
• Visible dirt/debris in coat
• Have rolled in something

As long as they aren’t getting any of these issues and their skin looks okay you can often leave them longer.

How to bathe without issues

Use a dog shampoo. Human shampoo is far too harsh for their skin. Use lukewarm water. Ensure you rinse well. Shampoo left on can often cause itchy skin.

Ensure they are fully dry. Thick coated dogs can often cause skin issues if left damp. Double coated dogs shouldn’t be bathed too regularly as it can cause issues with their natural oils protecting their coat.

Brush if their coat is long or prone to matting. Mats can be a nightmare to deal with when wet.

Puppies/Seniors

Puppies usually won’t need to be bathed regularly. Their skin is more sensitive so keep baths short and use a mild puppy shampoo. Often every 3-4 weeks is enough.

Seniors can often have drier skin so may be better to bath less regularly. Many seniors will be fine with a bath every 6-8 weeks or only when needed. Keep a closer eye on their skin.

Overall

Most dogs will be fine with a bath every 4-6 weeks. However this can depend on their coat type and lifestyle. Short haired dogs can often go longer. Curly/double coated may need extra attention but brushing is more important.

Keep an eye on their skin and coat. Many dogs will cause more issues if over bathed.

Note: This is just general advice based on popular coat types. It is not veterinary advice. If your dog is having ongoing skin issues please consult a vet/groomer.

FAQ

How often should I bathe my dog?

Around every 4-6 weeks is a good average. Depending on their coat and how dirty they get.

Should I bathe my dog weekly?

This isn’t usually advised. Can cause dry skin and stripping natural oils. Only do this if a vet/groomer advise.

Do certain breeds need more baths?

Yes. Curly coated and some long haired dogs often need more regular baths. Short haired dogs can often go longer between baths.

Is it bad to bathe my dog too much?

Yes. Can cause dry and itchy skin. Most dogs will be better with less regular baths and regular brushing.