Every other week too often to bathe?

Question

My baby is a beagle/dachshund mix- short hair. We're outside a lot so he gets a little smelly- he doesn't LOOK dirty but I like it better when he smells good. Can this hurt his coat?

Also when I got him he had dandruff and since I started bathing him it has gone away- a sign that it's okay every other week?

I use a dog oatmeal shampoo meant for dry skin.

Dobiegang- I respect your opinion but the site you linked to says " Just use your nose — that tell tale doggy smell will let you know it's time for a bath."- he has that tell-tale doggie smell every two weeksish. I don't want to have to change between walking him and heading to work so I don't smell like a dirty dog.

Answer 1

no that is not to often but use a very mild puppy shampoo and some cream rinse so that his skin does not become dry

Answer 2

It really depends on the dog and the circumstances. I work at a Vet Clinic and have dogs come in for baths quite regularly, especially dermatology patients. Some even coming in as often as a week. It isn't great for their skin to wash it every week but it also isn't good to have the dog extremely dirty either. I would say bathing once a week is acceptable in your circumstances. As long as the dog doesn't develop any skin irritation or anything it should be fine. Just make sure you use a proper dog shampoo, not human stuff.

Answer 3

As long as you are not drying his skin out it should be fine. Like you said his dandruff is gone so is not doing no harm. A lot of dogs (people must have time on thier hands) get a bath 1 or 2 times a week.

Answer 4

Dogs have a oil in thier coats, if you wash them to often it will dry out this oil and cause skin problems for your dog. Washing once a month with a baby shampoo would work but not regular adult shampoo .
:)

Answer 5

Most dogs only need bathing when they really stink, for example, after they have rolled in something. Other then that, it is really not necessary especially not every 2 weeks. Bathing strips a dogs coats of its natural oils and that can lead problems such as itchy skin and dandruff.

I would only bath when absolutely necessary.

Answer 6

It depends on the dogs skin and shampoo you use. Ask your local groomer/vet what they recommend for your dog. We use totally organic products and have many weekly clients with beautiful coats. You may purchase a pet cologne that will help with odor. Remember that dry skin usually originates from diet, allergies and parasites.

Answer 7

I was told by vet that about once a month for long haired dogs, every three months for short hair, unless they stink. Just use a gentle shampoo. Maybe something with oatmeal in it.

Answer 8

Every two weeks is too often. http://www.canadasguidetodogs.com/grooming/grooming5.htm