When you want to rinse that dirt right out of your dog's fur, do not rinse, lather, and repeat with the shampoo you use – it will cause more than just a bad fur day for your dog!
When it comes to grooming your dog, you might think that you can just use your own shampoo. But think again. Even if your shampoo is great for the scalp, it won't work as well on your pet's skin. Keep reading to learn more about why you should stick to cleaning products that have been specifically formulated for use on your dog's delicate skin.
Announcement
Many dog owners have a lot of questions about this: what and how often can they wash their dog so as not to harm its health, is it possible to wash the dog with human shampoo, baby, tar and laundry soap, how to wash the dog correctly, and so on. We will try to answer these and other questions in this and other articles dedicated to caring for your four-legged pet.
At what age should a puppy be introduced to water procedures?
Experienced dog breeders advise not to bathe puppies until they reach four months of age. You can rid very small four-legged pets of dirt by simply washing their paws and wiping their fur with a damp sponge. After these hygiene procedures, the puppy must be wiped dry and kept in a warm, draft-free place until completely dry.
We recommend that you learn how to choose a collar, harness, muzzle, and bowl for your pet
How often can you bathe
It is enough to wash our short-haired four-legged friends no more than three times a year, because their skin and coat have a natural protective “lubricant”. Frequent bathing can damage the skin by stripping away its natural protection and causing dandruff and dry skin. After walks, you can limit yourself to washing your paws or cleaning them with wet wipes . It should be noted here that simple splashing with water in the form of a game is not considered washing, since no detergents are used and the wool does not get completely wet.
Physiology of dog skin
Dog handlers and veterinarians unanimously claim that dogs have a fatty film on their bodies that cannot be washed off. Such scant information forces dog owners to go to extremes. Some people believe that hygiene procedures can only be carried out twice a year. Others arrange swimming every other day. What are we really dealing with?
In general, dogs' skin is similar to ours, but it is much softer and drier. If the animal is not washed at all, tangles will gradually form, sebum (sebum) will block the air circulation, and severe shedding will begin. Frequent bathing leads to dandruff, dermatitis and the formation of microcracks into which dangerous bacteria can enter.
Human glands secrete more sebaceous secretions than dog glands. Manufacturers of care products must take this fact into account and introduce more aggressive components into the composition. The latter are destructive for dogs. Even one use of regular shampoo can lead to serious consequences.
What not to wash
There is an opinion that you can wash your pets with anything, any ordinary shampoo, just to restore cleanliness and order. But is it? It has already been said above why dogs should not be washed with shampoo intended for humans. It should also be noted that children's products are not suitable for this role.
Scented, laundry or tar soaps dry out your pet's skin and have an unpleasant odor, so they also cannot be used for washing.
Cat shampoos, although designed for pets, are not suitable for dogs. It’s another matter if it is a combined product that allows it to be used for both cats and dogs without harming their health.
Active ingredients
- Triclosan is an antibacterial and antimycotic substance, also included in soaps, washing powders, and antiseptics. As a rule, it is used in cheap shampoos, as it has too powerful a cleansing effect and can cause skin irritation and allergies.
- Ammonium sulfoethoxylate is a milder drug that does not cause allergies. But in the long term it also dries out the skin and hair.
- Expensive shampoos are based on a balanced acid-base mixture , which is ideal for the skin and fur of animals.
Additives include various herbal extracts, oils and decoctions. Some cosmetic products are tested on animals, which has angered animal rights activists around the world.
This fact creates the impression that shampoos and soaps are very harmful and dangerous. In fact, it is not the product itself that is dangerous, but the initial components that are used to treat animals in huge doses.
IMPORTANT! Mammalian hair consists of a calcium shell, chitinous scales, protein compounds and a nerve ending that sends signals to the hair that it is damaged or cut.
How to clean paws and ears
After walks, it is advisable to clean the animal’s paws of dust and possible contaminants. In order not to bathe them every time after a walk, you can use special shampoos for paws - “Doctor ZOO”, “Gulena”, “Four Paws”, “Shoe”.
While bathing, you should not allow moisture to get into your pet's ears, but this does not mean that you do not need to clean his ears. For this we recommend:
- Doctor VIC hygiene lotion, which fights pathogenic bacteria and fungi;
- Dekta-Forte ear drops;
- ear-cleaner lotion from Beaphar, etc.
Selection of hair care products
To keep your pet's fur and skin in good condition, you should choose a good shampoo. Bathing products differ in many ways. It is necessary to pay attention to the following points:
- breed;
- age of the animal (puppies and aging dogs);
- coat length and color;
- specificity of the product (for parasites and skin diseases).
Dogs with long hair require careful care: anti-matt products and balms are available for them. For short-haired breeds, softening shampoos are used to add shine.
Pets with bright white or black coats often have coats that lose their color and become dull. To solve this problem, special tint shampoos have been developed that maintain color:
- bleaching – for light color;
- pigmented - for dark colors.
Special shampoos are developed not only for hygienic purposes, but also have a healing effect:
- help remove fleas and other parasites;
- eliminate dandruff, soften the skin;
- treat skin diseases.
They are used differently from conventional products. For example, to remove fleas, you will need to wash your pet again after 1-2 weeks. Detailed instructions for use are usually indicated on the packaging.
Important! Dogs prone to allergies need a separate shampoo that does not cause irritation, is colorless and odorless.
After vaccination
Vaccinations are given to healthy puppies at about two months, but it is not always possible to wash babies at this age - it depends on the breed. It is advisable to accustom a Yorkshire terrier to water at the age of two months, and, for example, a Norwich terrier at six months. Bathing is not recommended unless the coat is heavily soiled. Puppies are not bathed before vaccination.
Veterinarians do not recommend bathing your dog immediately after vaccination. The reason for this lies in the decrease in the pet’s immunity, that is, due to the introduction of strains of viruses and microbes into the body. The rule is very simple - you cannot bathe your dog for two weeks after vaccination! Depending on the breed, the dog’s behavior and well-being after vaccination changes: appetite may decrease and lethargy appear. Water procedures can provoke colds. If your dog or puppy gets dirty, you can clean the fur with a comb and wet wipes.
What types of shampoos are there: review
There are a huge number of different dog care products on the pet supply market. These include all kinds of balms, conditioners, classic shampoos for regular care, for different types and colors of fur, medicinal products, dry powders, masks.
Most types of pet shampoos are recommended to be diluted in a ratio of 1 to 10 with water. Next, you need to apply it to the fur, massage it with your hands, and rinse. In case of heavy soiling, you can comb it with a wide-toothed comb. Medicinal shampoos should be left on for 10-15 minutes and rinsed off well.
Particular attention should be paid to hard-to-reach places: under the paws, chest, under the tail, between the toes.
Shampoo with chlorhexidine for dogs
Shampoo with chlorhexidine is the most popular product. The concentration of the active component should be 4-5% . The usual pharmaceutical solution of Chlorhexedine 0.05%. Accordingly, simply adding it to regular shampoo will not achieve the effect.
Chlorhexedine has antifungal, antimicrobial activity, and also destroys lipophilic viruses.
According to foreign studies, this shampoo effectively copes with superficial skin infections in single mode and helps to gently eliminate itching without the use of systemic drugs. An undoubted advantage is that the product is easily accessible; skin reactions to it rarely occur .
Use is limited to puppies up to three weeks old and animals with individual intolerance to shampoo components. Also, the product should not be soldered or injected into cavities. External use only is permitted.
Cases of overdose have not been reported if the recommendations for use are followed. The treatment course is at least three weeks. For some conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, Chlorhexedine may be recommended as maintenance therapy on an ongoing basis every 2-4 weeks. It is a low-risk drug and does not cause addiction.
The following shampoos with Chlorhexedine are presented on the Russian market:
| Name | Chlorhexedine concentration | Approximate cost, rub. |
| Apicenna (Api-san), 150 ml | 4% | 400-450 |
| Chlorexiderm, 250 ml | 4% | 1200-1500 |
| Global vet, 200 ml | 4% | 570-600 |
| Davis, 200 and 950 ml | 4% | 300-1800 |
| Pchelodar, 250 ml | 5% | 400-550 |
| Doctor Vic, 150 ml | 4% | 400-450 |
| Cytoderm, 200 ml | 4% | 300-320 |
The difference in cost is due to the manufacturer and the presence of additional ingredients in the composition. For example, Davis have been produced in America for over 35 years. They are professional medicinal cosmetics, often sold in 5 liter packs . Approved all over the world, has optimal pH and high-quality ingredients.
Cytoderm shampoo is produced in Germany and recently appeared in Russia. The domestic company Apicena has launched its product on the market at an affordable price, but not inferior in quality to its foreign analogues.
Shampoo Doctor
Goodman's medicinal shampoos are available in a wide range. They are captivated by their low price and good effectiveness for various skin and coat problems:
- Doctor Green . The composition includes benzoyl peroxide, which helps cope with unpleasant odor, has antimicrobial activity and reduces the severity of itching.
- Doctor with birch tar . It has a mild exfoliating effect, suppresses excessive growth of conditionally pathogenic microflora, and normalizes secretion production by the sebaceous glands of the skin.
- Doctor with climbazole . Actively suppresses the proliferation of Malassezia and Candida yeast-like fungi of the dermis. Gently restores the skin's lipid barrier.
- Doctor with chitosan . The biopolymer included in the composition, made from crustacean shells, helps moisturize the fur. Well suited for dogs during the molting period and with alopecia.
- Doctor Restorer . The active ingredients activate skin regeneration, moisturize it, help in the development of a new microbial layer, and stimulate hair growth.
- Doctor for puppies . It has a natural composition without added sulfates. Suitable for regular care of dogs with allergies and representatives of hairless breeds.
The cost of shampoos varies from 200 to 400 rubles per 200 ml.
The advantages include low cost, availability, good effectiveness and natural composition. The difference from many shampoos is the absence of sulfates in the composition, which allows the product to be easily washed off without leaving a residue on the skin and coat.
Contraindications for use are individual sensitivity to the components, age under three weeks and significant wounds on the body.
The disadvantages , according to some owners, are the small volume, a rare local reaction in the form of itching to shampoo with birch tar and its specific smell.
The size of the bottle is not convenient for use on large dogs with chronic diseases. Veterinarians note that it would not hurt Goodman to release a product with 4% Chlorhexedine. Also, the line lacks products for regular care of healthy skin and coat.
Perfect coat (Perfect coat) shampoo for dogs
The Perfect Coat line belongs to the well-known company 8 in 1, which produces vitamin supplements, treats, hygiene and care products for dogs.
There are several different shampoos:
- Moisturizing . The main active ingredient is panthenol, and also contains various oils that help make the fur soft and shiny.
- With oatmeal. Soothes itchy skin and saturates it with moisture. A pleasant vanilla aroma will be a bonus. Convenient format for large dogs – 947 ml bottle.
- White pearls . For dogs with light coat. Additionally, conditioner is added to the bottle for easy combing and smoothness. The substances included in the composition bind coloring pigments from tap water and prevent white wool from turning yellow and red.
But be careful, reddening of the coat may indicate the presence of a fungal or bacterial infection. This may be due to atopic dermatitis, other types of allergies, or high humidity. Typically, redness is noticeable in the area under the eyes (tear ducts), near the prepuce or vulva, between the fingers and on the beard. In this case, you need to consult a dermatologist, you may need a medicated shampoo.
- Black Pearl . Enhances the beauty and intensity of color in dogs with dark coats. Has a pleasant berry aroma.
- Hypoallergenic. The manufacturer has excluded flavorings and coloring pigments from the formula. Thanks to this, the shampoo does not cause irritation or watery eyes. Easily cleanses the skin and does not remain on the fur after rinsing.
- For puppies . Gently cares for babies' delicate fur using keratin and jojoba oil. Does not cause tears, has a light scent of baby powder.
- Foam . It has a small format, only 250 ml. Does not require rinsing, but is not recommended for long-term use. Suitable for use by animals after surgery, elderly, sick or former homeless animals undergoing adaptation and socialization.
The undoubted advantages include the fact that in addition to shampoos, the line also includes products for easy combing of wool, conditioner, refreshing spray, and wet wipes. Convenient packaging of almost 500 ml , and some bottles of 950 ml, the product will last for a long time. Price is about 400 rubles per bottle. The formula of the shampoo makes it easy to wash it off your pet's fur.
The disadvantages include the lack of a line of therapeutic agents.
Dry shampoo - what are its pros and cons?
Dry shampoos resemble human ones. They can be in the form of a powder with talc, which refreshes the appearance of the coat, eliminates excess fat and odor, or in the form of a mousse that does not require rinsing.
It is better not to use such a product for regular care, since it will not get rid of severe dirt, but you can easily develop dry skin and dandruff.
When to use dry shampoo:
- You need to quickly get the coat in order;
- Lack of water or place to swim;
- The dog doesn't like to shower;
- Adaptation of the pet to new conditions;
- Eliminate odor;
- Easier grooming.
The principle of use is to apply shampoo in the form of foam or powder to the coat, distribute and comb out with a comb.
| Brand | Peculiarities | Approximate cost, rub |
| Biogance Waterless Dog , 300 ml | Contains hydrocarbon and fragrance. Excellent removes unpleasant odors. | 1300-1500 |
| Mr.Bruno VIP dry with rice extract for dogs, 200 ml | Delicate fruity aroma, no dyes. Maintains the natural pH of the dog's skin. | 350-400 |
| Iv San Bernard Black & White for dogs and cats, 150 ml | Presented in the form of a mousse, not a powder. Easy to use: apply, distribute and comb. | 700-800 |
Hypoallergenic shampoo for dogs
Shampoos that do not cause allergies are recommended for dogs with sensitive skin, atopics, and puppies. The composition should be free of artificial colors and flavors; a plus will be the presence of oils and ceramides.
| Brand | Peculiarities | Approximate cost, rub |
| Hypoallergenic celandine , 270 ml | With wheat extract. Relieves itching and irritation from the dermis. | 130-160 |
| Cliny “Gentle Care” for puppies, hypoallergenic, 200 ml | Coconut oil and wheat germ gently nourish and moisturize the skin and coat. | 250-350 |
| Shampoo for puppies and kittens TROPICLEAN hypoallergenic, 355 ml | Tropical fruit based, soap free. | 700-800 |
Shampoos for fleas and ticks
Insectoacaricidal shampoos are not recommended by veterinarians as monotherapy. They can be used in combination with anti-tick tablets.
With frequent washing, shampoos can reduce the effect of antiparasitic drops and sprays.
| Brand | Peculiarities | Price |
| Agrovetzaschita Meadow insecticidal zoo shampoo for dogs and cats | Easy to apply, foam and rinse off. Pleasant aroma of meadow herbs. | 150-250 |
| GreenFort Neo for dogs, against parasites, 380 ml | The herbs in the composition repel parasites, and Dimethicone paralyzes if they decide to attack. The effect lasts for a week. | 350-400 |
| Iris Ohyama Shampoo rinse for animals with floral aroma against fleas | Exclusively natural composition: sulfur, rosemary, chamomile flowers repel insects. | 1200-1400 |
| Shampoo Fluffy happiness for dogs, anti-parasitic, repellent, 250 ml | The effect is achieved through a combination of chemicals. | 350-400 |
| Shampoo for dogs GAMMA anti-parasitic, 250ml | Based on essential oils. | 120-150 |
| Rolf Club hypoallergenic flea shampoo for dogs | It is based on permethrin and is active for two weeks. | 300-350 |
Antifungal shampoo
The main types of skin fungi that affect dogs are yeasts and dermatophytes. Treatment with shampoos can be carried out in combination with taking tablets. Therapy is long-term, at least a month.
| Brand | Peculiarities | Approximate cost, rub |
| Chlorexiderm , 250 ml | Combined action against yeast-like fungi and dermatophytes | 1200-1500 |
| Doctor with climbazole , 200 ml | Reasonable price and good effect in the fight against Malassezia and Candida. | 200-300 |
| Davis with miconazole , 200 ml | Miconazole has antifungal activity, and the oatmeal it contains reduces itching and inflammation. | 500-600 |
Moisturizing and anti-dandruff
Shampoos for moisturizing the skin usually contain salicylic acid, essential fatty acids, oils, and zinc. Examples of such products include: Keratolux, Allermil, Zinkoseb, Essential 6 Sebo, Ceva Douxo Calm, Wahl.
Additionally, after washing, the doctor prescribes the application of baby oil to the skin or special veterinary drops, for example, Essential . Unlike shampoo, you don't need to rinse them off.
Read a detailed article on the topic: “Dandruff in a pet: symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention.”
Shampoos for dog smell
Dry products with talc or hydrocarbons, as well as special deodorizing shampoos: Mr. Bruno for dog smell, Veda with balm to eliminate unpleasant odors, spray with Animology Stink Bomb Refreshing .
If these remedies do not work, then there is a reason to consult a doctor. The smell may indicate a skin infection.
Whitening Shampoo for Dogs
An indispensable item for owners of dogs with snow-white fur. Copes with yellow and red spots. However, you should be careful. There are soft products with dyes and harder ones with enzymes and bleaching particles:
| Brand | Peculiarities | Approximate cost, rub |
| Agrees for pets SUPER WHITE | An exclusively natural herbal composition helps to naturally whiten wool. | 700-750 |
| Bio-Groom “Super White” shampoo , for light coats, 355 ml | Does not contain artificial colors, peroxide or soap. The base is coconut oil. | 1500-2000 |
| Wahl professional shampoo Diamond White , 5 l | Natural ingredients: cucumber, lime, lemon. | 4000-5000 |
