How to Bathe a Dog with Sensitive Skin
Got a sensitive pup? If your dog gets red or itchy with certain products, environmental factors, or foods, they likely have sensitive skin. Dogs with allergies or skin conditions require extra care to ensure their skin remains healthy and free from irritation, and it can be difficult to bathe them because some products dry out or damage their skin by stripping them of natural oils. Here’s how you can give your furry friend a soothing, comfortable bath…
- Choose the Right Shampoo - You can start by finding a dog shampoo for sensitive skin. Make sure to check out the label—look for products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and contain soothing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile. Avoid shampoos with alcohols, artificial fragrances, and dyes, as these can exacerbate skin issues.
- Do a Patch Test - When you’ve found your new shampoo, test it on a small area first. A great place to start is by washing their paws. Wait 24 hours to see if there is a reaction. If there is no reaction, you can continue to wash your entire pup.
- Use Lukewarm Water - Test the water on the inner side of your wrist—it should feel slightly cooler than your skin but not cold. We’re going for room temperature. Warmer water can irritate sensitive skin, especially if it is inflamed or red. Lukewarm water is gentle and helps maintain the natural oils.
- Use a Bath Brush - Instead of your fingers, use a bath brush with smooth rubber nubs to lather the shampoo. Never use your fingernails—while this may seem very enjoyable to the dog, there is bacteria under our fingernails that can cause infections in their skin and make their skin conditions worse.
- Thoroughly Rinse - Think of the term “squeaky clean” when you’re rinsing your pup. If all the shampoo is rinsed out, their coat will actually feel squeaky clean, as if you can’t easily move your hand over their coat because it almost sticks. It won’t be greasy or slick.
- Apply Conditioner & Rinse - Use a conditioner that is also safe for sensitive skin with similar parameters to the shampoo if you are not using a 2 in 1. A quality conditioner will soothe your dog’s skin and lock in moisture, helping to protect it from environmental factors. Your pup won’t have the “squeaky clean” feel after rinsing the conditioner because of the moisture it provides the coat and skin.
- Pat or Blow Dry - Gently pat your dog dry with a towel and avoid rubbing. If you use a blow dryer, make sure it is on a low or cool setting to not irritate the skin.
If you’re looking for high-quality bath products designed with your dog’s wellness in mind, be sure to check out the Dogtopia Spa line, which is tearless, hypoallergenic, and safe for sensitive skin. Remember to follow product instructions and always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's skin health. If you’re looking for help maintaining your furry friend’s hygiene, book a spa appointment at a Dogtopia near you.