For dog owners, the question of how frequently to wash their furry friends often arises. Should it be a weekly ritual, or perhaps a monthly affair? With so much conflicting advice available, determining the right washing schedule can be confusing. However, veterinarian Dr. Cliff Faver, a specialist in pet skin and hair health, provides a straightforward guideline: dogs should ideally be washed every 21 days.
Dr. Faver explains that this interval aligns with a dog’s skin cycle, which remains consistent regardless of the length of the coat. “The reality is the skin cycle is 21 days, whether it’s a short-haired or long-haired dog,” he clarifies.
Within this 21-day timeframe, a dog’s skin cells regenerate, making it essential to bathe them to eliminate dead skin cells. While Dr. Faver suggests this schedule as a general rule of thumb, he emphasizes that owners should not rigidly adhere to it but rather consider it a guideline based on the dog’s natural skin cycle.
Common Misconceptions
A prevalent myth among dog owners is that short-haired breeds require less frequent washing. Dr. Faver dispels this notion, noting that short-haired dogs need the same level of care as their long-haired counterparts. “Many people misunderstand this; they think that because they have a short-haired dog, they don’t need to bathe it as often,” he remarks. “They require the same care as other dogs.”
Additionally, another mistake often made with short-haired dogs is the assumption that they do not need conditioning. Dr. Faver points out that different coat types have unique needs. “Short-haired dogs may have less fur, but they actually need more oils to protect their skin,” he advises.
The Importance of Conditioning
When washing a dog, it’s crucial to use both shampoo and conditioner. Many groomers and pet owners inadvertently strip the natural oils from a dog’s skin by only using shampoo. Dr. Faver warns that failing to replenish these oils can lead to dryness and skin issues. “If a dog isn’t properly moisturized, its skin will dry out, resulting in various skin problems,” he explains. Therefore, he strongly recommends incorporating conditioner into your dog-washing routine.
Dr. Faver, who is the founder and chief veterinarian of Animal Health Services, is set to share his expertise in Australia this November at his seminar titled Hair and Skin 101 – The Basis of All Grooming. His goal is to equip pet groomers and owners with valuable knowledge.
“I believe every pet owner, groomer, veterinarian, and veterinary technician has something to gain from this program,” Dr. Faver states. “Understanding proper care allows us to enhance our practices and, most importantly, ensure the safety of our dogs.”
For those interested, tickets to Dr. Faver’s seminars are available for purchase.
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