There's no fixed answer... How often you should wash your dog will depend a lot on their breed, lifestyle and health. Of course, dogs that like to spend time outdoors and have a habit of getting mucky will need regular bathing, but when those paws are away from muddy puddles, it can be difficult to know if you should regularly wash your dog.
What to consider
Generally speaking, most healthy dogs can be washed around once a month, assuming that they don’t get excessively dirty in between baths. Some breeds can go longer than this, especially with regular grooming to loosen dirt and minimise tangles and matting.
Bathing your dog also gives you an opportunity to check them over for signs of skin problems or lumps that could indicate a health issue.
Their type of skin or coat
Your dog's coat can play a big part in how often they will need bathing. Long-haired breeds, such as Bearded Collie dogs, Pomeranians and Yorkshire Terriers, will need more regular bathing, at least once every four to six weeks to stop their coat getting tangled and matted, and to stop their fur from retaining dirt.
Dogs with coarser coats, like Otterhounds and Border Terriers, can get away with being washed less often for the most part. The main exception to this is light coloured coats, which will usually show up dirt more easily and will need more regular washing to stop them looking discoloured.
Hairless breeds who lack the skin protection a coat provides, need to be bathed weekly. Dogs who tend to have oily skin, like Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds, also benefit from more frequent baths to prevent oil buildup on their skin.
Allergies or skin problems
Dogs that suffer from allergies or skin conditions may require regular bathing with medicated shampoo. In these cases, the right dog bath frequency will depend on the instructions provided by your vet. Dogs with itchy skin may also find relief from regular baths with a shampoo designed to reduce irritation. Dogs who don't respond well to oral or topical parasite treatments might need regular baths to help keep fleas and ticks under control. Always follow your vet’s advice.
What Products to Use
Always use a shampoo that is specifically designed for dogs. The aim is to make sure that your dog is nice and clean afterwards, but at the same time, you don’t want to strip natural oils from their coat and skin or cause skin problems due to your choice of product.
If you must wash your dog more frequently than once a month, be sure to use a moisturising dog shampoo or follow up with a moisturising dog conditioner that can help replenish your pet's natural moisture.
If your dog’s skin is sensitive, you’ll need to be particularly careful what you use on them. Your dog may require a sensitive skin shampoo, but if you’re not sure what to use, speak to your vet about the options.
You can find a wide range of shampoos for all coat types and skin conditions on Animed.
What’s the best time to bathe a dog?
Bathing your dog at the right time helps keep their skin and coat healthy, while avoiding unnecessary stress or irritation. Here are some of the best occasions to consider a bath, based on veterinary and animal-care expertise:
1. After particularly muddy or dirty outdoor exercise
If your dog has been rolling in mud, fox mess, or playing in ponds, a bath can help remove dirt, allergens, and potential bacteria that may irritate the skin if left behind.
2. After swimming in rivers, lakes, or the sea
Natural water sources can contain bacteria, parasites, salt, or algae. Rinsing or bathing your dog afterwards helps reduce the risk of skin irritation or infection.
3. On a warm day
Bathing during warmer weather is more comfortable for dogs, as they’ll dry more easily and are less likely to become cold. This is especially important for older dogs or puppies.
4. Before grooming or trimming
Bathing before brushing, clipping, or professional grooming helps remove loose hair and debris, making the grooming process easier and more effective.
5. When the coat or skin looks unhealthy
If your dog’s coat appears greasy, flaky, or has an unpleasant smell, a targeted bath using a dog specific shampoo can support skin health. Always choose products suitable for your dog’s skin type. Please always seek advice from your vet to eliminate any underlying issues.
6. After exposure to allergens or irritants
If your dog has been in contact with pollen, dust, or other known irritants, bathing can help soothe the skin and reduce excessive scratching or licking.
7. As part of a regular but sensible routine
Most dogs only need bathing every 4–8 weeks, depending on breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Over bathing can strip natural oils and lead to dry or sensitive skin.
Animed tip: Always use a shampoo formulated specifically for dogs, as human products can disrupt the natural balance of their skin.
