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What To Know About Dog Shampoo
Not all dog shampoo is created equal, which is why it's important to choose one that is safe on your dog and actually gets them clean. When looking for a formula that will work best for your pet, you need to consider a few things.
Beneficial Ingredients
Look for ingredients that will not only cleanse pets skin and coat, but will also help nourish, deodorize, and protect. Here are some key ones to be aware of:
- Aloe Vera: Both antiseptic and moisturizing, aloe is a popular ingredient that can aid in cleansing, moisturizing and protecting against future irritations.
- Vitamin E: Also moisturizing, vitamin E can nourish skin and detangle coats.
- Vitamin B: Common in oats or oatmeal, vitamin B penetrates deeply to deliver moisture.
- Coconut oil: Cleanses and moisturizes skin and coats at the same time.
- Essential oils: Lavender, chamomile and rosemary can cleanse, moisturize, and calm anxious pets. Plus, they smell good.
- Charcoal: Can be a powerful and natural cleansing agent for the skin.
Types of Dog Shampoo
There are various dog shampoos to choose from including those specifically formulated for puppies, sensitive skin, medicated dog shampoos, hypoallergenic formulas, anti-dander shampoos, soap-free formulas, and more. Consider your pet's specific needs when deciding which is the best dog shampoo for them. If your pet suffers from dryness or allergies, it's a good idea to consult your vet and ask them for recommendations as well.
How to Wash Your Dog
Washing your dog at home can be a challenging task–no matter your pet's size. Keep in mind these tips:
1. Pre-fill your tube or sink so that your pet will be about ankle deep in water. You can use paw fizz tablets to cleanse their paws while you wash their body.
2. Prepare the space with towels to line the floor and prevent slips.
3. Ensure water is lukewarm, never hot. Test the water before submerging your pet.
4. Avoid getting soap or water in their eyes. Use a suds-free formula if possible.
5. Use a handheld shower attachment to properly wet your dog's body and rinse after lathering.
6. Consider applying a dog conditioner after shampoo has been rinsed.
7. Allow your pet to shake off excess water, this will come naturally to them, so prepare to shield yourself with a towel.
8. You can towel dry your pet or blow dry them if it does not scare them. Just ensure the blow dryer is set to cool.
Dog Shampoo Safety
When shopping for a dog shampoo, consider your pet's age, as there are special formulations for puppies and some senior dogs. And if your pet is on a topical flea and tick treatment, you will want to bathe them with a soap-free formula, as these shampoos will be less likely to dilute the effectiveness of flea and tick preventatives. Further, if you notice that your dog is more itchy after a bath, consider switching formulas or calling your vet for a recommendation. Your dog may have an allergy or sensitivity that can be irritated by common ingredients.
You may also want to consider shopping for dog shampoos that are formulated to not harm your pet in case of ingestion and that are free of parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, and alcohol.
Dog shampoos that are pH-balanced for pets in case of ingestion and that are free of additives like parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, and alcohol are considered the most safe dog shampoo options.
Groomers have expertise, but they also have expert tools. While you may never get to groomer-quality, pick a pet shampoo that boasts a fresh scent. You can also invest in shower and bath attachments that groomers use.
Choose a long-lasting dog shampoo and consider using a freshening spray in between baths. You may also want to consider switching their food to a high-quality blend formulated for skin and coat health. If pet smells persist call your vet, as some odors could signal health issues like excess yeast.
