Dog Bathing FAQ

Before the Bath

Can I use human shampoo on my pet? 

Human and pet (particularly dog) skin have different pH levels. 

Human skin typically has a pH around 5.5, while dogs have a pH ranging from 6.2 to 7.4. 

This difference in pH can be important when choosing grooming products, as using human shampoo on dogs can disrupt their natural pH balance and lead to skin issues.

How often should I bathe my dog?

Depends on the breed, coat type, activity level, and skin condition. Waterless Bath is a waterless dog shampoo that’s always a great option for in-between baths, too! 

What can I use on cats? 

Purrfect White, Silky Cat, Kuddly Kitty, Klean Kitty, Flea & Tick for Cats, and Ear Mite are all cat-safe products

What kind of shampoo should I use?

Dog-specific only. Avoid human shampoo due to pH differences. If your dog has sensitive skin or a skin condition, you may need a specialized dog shampoo. 

Can I bathe my puppy?

Yes, but usually after 8 weeks of age with puppy shampoo like Fluffy Puppy.

Do I need to brush my dog before bathing?

Yes — brushing helps remove loose hair and mats, which can get much worse after your dog’s coat is wet. 

Use a dog brushing aid daily, like Indulge Brushing Aid with Argan oil, to keep the coat tangle-free. 

Should I clean my dog’s ears before or after a bath?

Usually after, but always avoid getting water in the ears. Then use Bio Groom Ear Cleaner liquid or ready-to-use Bio Groom Ear Cleaner pads! 

During the Bath

What water temperature is best for bathing a dog?

Lukewarm — not too hot or cold.

How do I wash my dog’s face?

Use a damp cloth and avoid direct spraying. Be gentle around the eyes and nose. 

Look for a mild or tear-free dog shampoo like So-Gentle and Econo Groom. If your pet is still bothered by water around their face, then Facial Foam is a great option that does not need to be rinsed.

How long should I leave shampoo on my dog?

Typically, 5–10 minutes if medicated. Always follow the label instructions.

Is it okay to use a hose or showerhead?

Yes, if it’s gentle and the dog is comfortable with it.

How do I dry my dog properly?

Use a towel and/or pet-safe dryer on low heat. Some dogs tolerate blow-drying better than others. You can use Bio Groom So-Quick after towel drying to promote quicker drying time. 

Why does my dog go crazy after a bath (zoomies)?

It’s normal — they’re releasing stress and excess energy.

Can I bathe a dog with fleas or skin issues?

Yes, but use flea-specific or medicated dog shampoos like Bio Groom Flea & Tick Shampoo or Bio Groom Flea and Tick Dip. Consult your vet first if you have concerns. Bio Med is a great shampoo for dermatitis or itchy skin. 

What if my dog hates baths?

Start slow, use positive reinforcement, and try treats, toys, or professional help. 

Breed-Specific Bathing Advice

Breed-specific bathing advice helps ensure your dog’s coat and skin stay healthy and that grooming time is effective (and less stressful) for you both. Here’s a breakdown by coat type and popular breed examples, since coat type is the key factor in how you should bathe and groom them:

Short-Haired Breeds

Examples: Labrador Retriever, Beagle, Boxer, Pit Bull

• • Bathing Frequency: Every 1–3 months (more often if they get dirty).
  • Tips:
    • Use a moisturizing shampoo. Short-haired breeds are prone to dry skin.

• So-Easy 2-N-1 Shampoo and Conditioner, Protein Lanolin, Herbal Groom, Super White, Groom N’ Fresh, Super White, Bronze Luster, Ultra Black

• • • Quick to dry — towel drying is usually sufficient.
    • Use a rubber curry brush before and during the bath to loosen dead hair.
    • Add your favorite dog cologne

• So-Easy Cologne, Groom N’ Fresh, Natural Scents, Crisp Apple

Double-Coated Breeds

Examples: Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Husky, Shiba Inu

• • Bathing Frequency: Every 1–3 months, but brush weekly.
  • Tips:
    • Use a de-shedding dog shampoo and conditioner during shedding seasons.

• Anti-Shed Shampoo and Crème Rinse, Extra Body, Bronze Luster, Super White, Ultra Black, Indulge Shampoo and Crème Rinse, Super Foam, Silk Crème Rinse

• • • Always blow-dry with a slicker brush to prevent undercoat matting.

•  Add So-Quick to shorten drying time

• • • Never shave the coat — it can ruin its natural insulation.
    • Use a Brushing Aid to keep coat smooth, shiny, and tangle-free

• Coat Polish, Indulge Brushing Aid

• • • Add favorite Cologne

• So-Easy Cologne, Groom N’ Fresh, Natural Scents, Crisp Apple

Curly or Wavy-Coated Breeds

Examples: Poodle, Goldendoodle, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog

• Bathing Frequency: Every 3–4 weeks, paired with grooming.
• Tips:
  • Always brush out mats before bathing — water makes them worse. Use a brushing aid like Indulge Brushing Aid or Coat Polish to help. 
  • Use a moisturizing or hypoallergenic shampoo.
    • So-Easy 2-N-1 Shampoo and Conditioner, Indulge Shampoo and Crème Rinse, So-Gentle Shampoo and Crème Rinse, Silk Crème Rinse

• Dry thoroughly, use So-Quick to aid in drying time, and brush as you go to avoid tangles.

• • Add your favorite dog cologne

• So-Easy Cologne, Groom N’ Fresh, Natural Scents, Crisp Apple

• Frequent professional grooming may be necessary.

 Silky-Coated Breeds

Examples: Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Afghan Hound, Shih Tzu

• • Bathing Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks.
  • Tips:
    • Use gentle, detangling shampoo and conditioner.
      • Indulge Shampoo and Crème Rinse, Protein Lanolin, Silk Crème Rinse, Super Cream
    • Dry with a blow dryer on low and use So-Quick to shorten drying time. Brush to avoid matting.
    • Consider topknots or trimming hair around the eyes.
      • Use Waterless Bath or Facial Foam to keep face and legs clean in between baths without leaving the coat heavy with residue. 
    • Add favorite dog cologne

• So-Easy Cologne, Groom N’ Fresh, Natural Scents, Crisp Apple

Wire-Haired/Terrier Breeds

Examples: Westie, Schnauzer, Wire Fox Terrier, Irish Terrier

• • Bathing Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks.
  • Tips:
    • Use a shampoo that enhances texture and doesn’t soften the coat too much.

• Wiry Coat, Extra Body, Herbal Groom 

• • Hand-stripping may be needed to maintain coat quality (professional groomer recommended). 
    • Pro White Harsh, Ear Fresh
  • Don’t bathe too often — it can soften the coat and irritate the skin.

 Hairless or Very Short Coat Breeds

Examples: Chinese Crested (hairless), Xoloitzcuintli

• Bathing Frequency: Weekly to every 2 weeks.
• Tips:
  • Use a gentle, non-drying shampoo like So-Gentle Shampoo
  • Moisturize after bathing to prevent flaky skin with Super Cream or Waterless Bath in between baths 
  • Protect from sunburn and cold 

 Other Tips 

• Itchy dogs: use Natural Oatmeal Shampoo and Crème Rinse, Bio Med 
• Multi-color coat: Super White, Bronze Luster, and Ultra Black are safe for pets with spots or multiple colors throughout their coat. These products will work wonders to bring out the shine and enhance the coat without staining. 
• All of our shampoos can be used directly from the bottle, but you can purchase a Dilution Bottle to mix and dilute a shampoo. 

To remove fleas: Flea & Tick Shampoo is safe for dogs and cats and helps remove fleas. Repel-35 is only safe for dogs and horses and helps keep fleas off for up to 35 days if they are not in contact with water.