How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?

Quick answer: Most healthy dogs need a bath about once every 4 to 6 weeks, or whenever they get dirty or start to smell. But every dog is a bit different, so dog bathing can be more or less often. A short-haired dog who stays inside may only need a bath every two or three months. A dog with an oily coat who swims a lot may need one every two weeks. Puppies under 8 weeks old should only get wiped with a damp cloth.

People ask us this all the time. Some owners bathe their dog every week. Others only do it when the dog starts to smell. So who's right? Well, it depends on your dog. Dog bathing isn't the same for every breed, coat, or home.

In this guide, we'll start with a simple rule. Then we'll show you when to bathe more and when to bathe less. We'll also cover how to bathe a dog the right way, so their skin stays healthy.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?

Start with once a month. The Merck Veterinary Manual says to bathe your dog with pet shampoo about once a month. It also says to bathe them when they get very dirty or smell bad.

This works for most adult dogs. But let's look at two dogs. First, a Beagle who sleeps on the couch all day. He may only need dog bathing every couple of months. Next, a Lab who swims in the pond every day. He may need a rinse every week, plus a shampoo bath more than once a month.

So think of it as a range. Most dogs need a bath somewhere between every two weeks and every three months. The rest of this guide will help you find the right spot for your dog.

Dog Bathing by Coat Type

Your dog's coat matters the most. Some coats hold dirt and oil. Others don't. So the coat often decides your dog bathing schedule. These times are just a guide, not strict rules.

Short, smooth coats

Beagles and Boxers have short coats. There isn't much hair to trap dirt. So bathing your dog every one to three months is usually enough. In between, just wipe them down with a damp cloth.

Long, silky coats

Maltese and Shih Tzus have long, soft hair. This hair picks up dirt and gets tangled fast. That's why these dogs often need dog bathing every three to six weeks. They also need brushing a few times a week.

Thick double coats

Huskies and Golden Retrievers have a thick layer of fur under the top coat. A bath every one to three months is often fine. Brushing helps them more than lots of baths. After a bath, dry them really well, all the way to the skin. If that underlayer stays wet, the skin can get sore.

Curly coats

Poodles have curly hair that keeps growing. Dirt gets stuck in it easily. So many owners bathe them every three to six weeks, often when they go to the groomer.

Oily coats

Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels get greasy faster. Because of this, they can start to smell sooner. For these dogs, dog bathing every two to four weeks is common.

Hairless dogs

Chinese Cresteds and Xoloitzcuintlis have little or no hair. You might think that means less work. But their bare skin gets oily, so many need dog bathing about once a week.

Have a mixed breed? Then your dog may fit between two groups. Just go by how the coat looks, feels, and smells.

Other Things That Change How Often You Bathe

The coat isn't the only thing that matters. Two dogs of the same breed can still need very different dog bathing schedules.

Inside or outside. A dog who digs, runs in fields, and rolls in mud gets dirty fast. On the other hand, a dog who stays inside and walks on sidewalks may stay clean for months. If your dog spends all day outside on a farm or big yard, the mud will tell you when it's bath time.

Swimming. Pond, lake, and pool water can leave stuff on your dog's coat. So after a swim, rinse your dog with clean water. You don't always need a full bath.

Seasons. In summer, dogs get dirtier and smell more. In winter, they usually need less dog bathing. That's because cold air and indoor heat can already dry out their skin.

How Often Should You Bathe a Puppy?

Wait until your puppy is about 8 weeks old for a real bath. Very young puppies can't keep warm well, so a wet puppy can get cold fast (Adopt-a-Pet). Before 8 weeks, use a warm, damp cloth to clean up messes.

So how often should you bathe a puppy after that? Only when they're dirty or smelly. For most puppies, that's about once a month. Of course, puppies get into everything. So between baths, just wipe their paws and belly with a damp cloth.

Keep the first few dog bathing sessions short and calm. Use a gentle puppy shampoo. Dry your puppy fully and keep them in a warm room after. If these first baths go well, your puppy will learn that bath time is no big deal. That's how you build a good dog bath time routine for life.

Bathing an Older Dog

Older dogs often move around less. So they may need dog bathing less often. But some older dogs need more quick clean-ups. For example, a dog with bladder leaks or a dog who can't clean himself well may need more help.

Many older dogs also have stiff joints. So put a non-slip mat in the tub. Use warm water, not hot. Lift small dogs in instead of making them jump. Keep the bath short, because older dogs get cold faster. And if you find a new lump or sore spot while washing, tell your vet.

Dog Bathing and Skin Problems

If your dog has a skin problem, talk to your vet. Skin issues can change your whole dog bathing plan.

Dry, flaky skin. Give fewer baths. Then ask your vet about a moisturizing shampoo. More baths usually make dry skin worse.

Oily skin. These dogs may need more baths. But if the oily skin also smells bad or itches, get it checked. It could be a skin problem.

Sensitive skin. Pick a mild shampoo with no added scent. Also, rinse for longer than you think you need to. Leftover shampoo can make the skin itchy.

Skin infections. Some dogs need a special medicated shampoo a few times a week. The Merck Veterinary Manual says medicated shampoos are not the same as normal dog shampoos. Often, you wash the dog with a normal shampoo first. Then you use the medicated one and leave it on for a set time. So follow your vet's steps closely. And don't let your dog stand wet and shivering while the shampoo sits.

Fleas and ticks. Does your dog use a flea or tick treatment on the skin? If so, read the label before you bathe them. Some products need time to soak in. A bath too soon can make them work less well.

If someone at home is allergic to dogs. A 1999 study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that washing a dog removed 84% of the main dog allergen from its hair. But the allergen came back within about three days. So the researchers said dogs would need a bath twice a week to keep it low. If you want to try this, ask your vet about a very gentle shampoo first.

Can You Bathe a Dog Too Much?

Yes, you can. Shampoo washes away dirt. But it also washes away the natural oils that protect your dog's skin (WSAVA). So if dog bathing happens too often, your dog may get dry, flaky skin, itching, and a dull coat.

Here's a simple tip. The same WSAVA paper says a young dog who loves mud can sometimes get a rinse with just warm water. Then you only use shampoo every other bath. That way, the mud comes off, but the skin keeps its oils.

Also, don't use your own shampoo on your dog. Human shampoo is made for human skin. And human skin is more acidic than dog skin. That's why it's better to use a shampoo made for dogs.

Does Your Dog Need a Bath or a Vet?

Most of the time, you'll know when your dog needs a bath. Their coat feels greasy or gritty. You can see mud in their fur. Or they rolled in something gross. Sometimes your hand even smells like dog after one pet.

But sometimes a "dirty dog" is really a sick dog. The Merck Veterinary Manual lists hair loss, lots of itching, and red spots on the skin as signs a dog may be sick. Also, if a bad smell comes back a day or two after a bath, the problem may be the skin, ears, or teeth. More dog bathing won't fix that. Instead, book a visit with your vet. If the smell is coming from the ears, read our guide on how to clean your dog's ears safely at home.

How to Bathe a Dog Step by Step

Here's the best way to bathe a dog at home without a big mess. Never learned how to wash a dog? No problem. Just follow these steps in order.

1. Brush first. Water makes knots tighter, so brush before the bath. The Merck Veterinary Manual also says matted hair can hurt the skin and even cause infections.

2. Get everything ready. You'll need dog shampoo, a cup or sprayer, two towels, treats, and a non-slip mat.

3. Check the water. It should feel warm, not hot. Test it on your wrist.

4. Wet your dog. Start at the neck and move back to the tail. Leave the head for last. Keep water out of the eyes, ears, and nose.

5. Add shampoo. Rub it in all the way to the skin. Thick coats need extra rubbing. Then leave it on as long as the label says.

6. Rinse well. Rinse until the water is clear. Then rinse one more time.

7. Wash the face gently. Use a damp washcloth. Don't pour water over your dog's head.

8. Dry your dog. Use a towel first. Then use a cool or low dryer if your dog is okay with it.

9. Give a reward. End with a treat, praise, or a quick game.

[Image 2 alt text: Owner rinsing a dog's coat during dog bathing at home]

Brushing Before Bath Time? Get the Right Tools Delivered

A good brush makes every bath faster and easier on your dog's coat. T-Rex Pets ships grooming supplies across the USA, so you don't need a long drive to restock. Shop dog grooming tools

Dog Shower, Tub, or Hose?

Where you do your dog bathing matters too. Each spot has good points and bad points.

A walk-in dog shower with a handheld sprayer is easiest for big dogs and older dogs. They can just walk in, and you can rinse close to the skin. Just add a mat, since wet tile gets slippery.

A bathtub works well for most medium and large dogs. The hard part is lifting a heavy dog in and out. So be careful with your back.

For small dogs and puppies, a kitchen or laundry sink is often best. Keep one hand on your dog the whole time, so they don't jump out.

An outdoor hose is great for muddy dogs on warm days. But watch the water temperature. Well water can be very cold. And water sitting in a hose in the sun can be very hot. So let it run for a minute and test it first.

One more tip: put a hair catcher over the drain. It keeps dog hair out of your pipes.

How to Keep Your Dog Clean Between Baths

Some of the best dog grooming tips are about needing fewer baths.

• Brush often. The Merck Veterinary Manual says brushing removes loose hair and stops mats. Long and thick coats need it most.

• Wipe paws after walks. Keep a damp cloth by the door.

• Rinse with water. After a muddy walk, warm water is often enough.

• Wash the dog bed. A clean dog on a dirty bed will smell again by morning. If your dog's bed is old or hard to wash, check out our dog beds.

• Clean small spots. Use pet grooming wipes for quick clean-ups.

Do these things often, and you'll need a lot less dog bathing.

When to Call a Groomer

Some dogs make dog bathing at home really hard. And that's okay. Dogs with long, curly, or very matted coats often do better with a groomer. Groomers have the right tools and dryers. A groomer can also help with very big, very nervous, or older dogs that are hard to hold in a tub.

Plus, a groomer can trim nails and spot skin problems you might miss. Then at home, you can keep up with brushing and quick rinses. For more pet care advice, check out our pet care tips.

Frequently Asked Questions