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What Are Dog Wipes?
Dog wipes are single-use, disposable cloths designed to quickly clean your dog's fur between baths or sanitize from any outdoor germs. They can also be used to wipe dogs' paws after hiking or playing at the dog park to prevent dirt from being tracked into the home or a vehicle. Some people use dog wipes in lieu of actual baths if it's unsafe or not possible to bathe their dog at the current moment. Here are some things to keep in mind before purchasing the wipes.
Ingredients
Since these wipes go directly on your dog's fur and skin, you're going to want to pay extra attention to the ingredients used. Most of the cloth wipes are made of fabric, bamboo, or other fibers that are safe on dogs, but you may want to avoid ingredients like phthalates, parabens, or alcohol. These might cause dryness or irritation.
Instead, look for dog wipes made from soothing ingredients like aloe vera and Vitamin E, which can help improve coat quality, as well. Antibacterial formulas are also recommended for dogs with skin folds or dogs that live in a busy city.
Scent
Pet wipes are ideal to freshen up any unsavory odors lingering on fur, but you want to make sure the scent isn't too overpowering. While you may enjoy a strong smell, dogs have stronger noses and may be irritated by certain scents. Plus, if your dog has sensitive skin, it's probably best to use unscented wipes over ones with artificial fragrances.
Eco-friendly
Because dog wipes are single-use, you may want to opt for ones that are a little better for the environment. Some wipes are made from recycled or compostable materials, so you can feel good about your purchase.
Keeping Dogs Clean Between Baths
Some dogs hate baths, making it challenging and time-consuming to get them clean. Bathing a dog too frequently can remove valuable oils from the skin and coat, causing dryness and irritation and reducing defenses against bacteria. Thankfully, there are ways to keep your furry friend fresh in between baths.
How to Use Wet Wipes
Step 1: Use only dog-friendly pet wipes, and carry some when you leave the house. Begin by wiping down your dog's paws, gently exfoliating between paw pads and toes.
Step 2: Wet wipes are appropriate for your dog's whole coat, so start at the neck and work your way down. Gently scrubbing against the natural direction of the coat will help tackle underlying dirt.
Step 3: Carefully wipe down your dog's face with a fresh wipe. Avoid eyes, mouth, and ears.
Dog wipes are an easy way to clean a dog's fur when a full bath isn't practical or possible. They can be especially useful when working with scared dogs or dogs who are recovering from surgeries who can't have a full bath. You can store dog wipes in your car, purse, or training bag for a quick clean-up before putting your dog into the car or bringing them home after a walk.
Dog wipes provide surface-level cleaning of a dog's coat, but removing pollen, dirt, and other debris can help soothe and protect sensitive skin. However, pet wipes alone do not specifically treat allergies and should not replace evaluation and treatment from a veterinarian. If you suspect your dog has allergies or has red or irritated skin, talk to your vet before using pet wipes.
In general, pet wipes are safe to use on a dog's coat. Be sure to follow all instructions on the packaging for any pet wipes that you purchase. If after use you notice any skin irritation or change in your dog's coat, discontinue use of the pet wipe and consult with your veterinarian.
