The problem with dog baths is that people tend to either do dog bathing too often or not enough. The rule of thumb is dog bathing should be done when needed. Your dog does not have to smell like a perfume bottle but also not like he just left the garbage dump either.

If you keep your pet well groomed, which means frequent brushing and keeping his sleeping area clean, you will not have to be bathing a dog more than every month at most (see guidelines below). The reason you do not want to be constantly bathing your dog is because dogs do not have pores to product oil; therefore, it may dry the skin and coat and make the fur dull and cause dandruff. If your dog is being groomed on a regular basis and you notice a strong doggy odor, it is time for a bath.

Here are some guide lines to follow when bathing your dog

1. If your best buddy has gotten into something smelly, it is time for a bath. You can use a deodorizing or antibacterial shampoo for this job.

2. Doggy odor - use any one of the many canine shampoos available for dog baths. A tearless one would be the best choice.

**Note**you may want to check with your vet if you feel that the odor from your dog is abnormal. Things that can cause this would be ear infection, problems with the mouth or anal glands or skin disease.

3. Dandruff - a veterinarian will be able to determine the cause and advise you which shampoo would be best for your buddy.

4. Allergies - bathing a dog with allergies can be soothing for itchy skin. Try oatmeal, a gentle hypo-allergenic or hydro-cortisone based shampoo.

5. Fleas, tics, mites, or lice - shampooing is one of the best ways to get rid of external parasites and there are many appropriate shampoos that will fight fleas and ticks on your canine friend that have proper pH balance while cleaning and conditioning your dog's coat.

6. If he's had a run in with a skunk. Special shampoos are made for this problem.

7. Swimming in salt water - salt will cause itching and skin irritation.

Dog Bathing Tips

1. Puppy Bathing - use shampoos that are especially formulated for puppies.

2. The younger you introduce your pet dog to bathing and brushing the easier it will be.

3. Always rinse thoroughly after washing. Shampoo residue can be very irritating to your pet's skin.

4. Do not use human shampoos on your pet, they are too harsh and have a different PH level.

5. You may want to add a fatty acid supplement to your dog's diet for a healthy shine on his coat.

6. While some dogs enjoy the attention when having their bath others do not. If your dog is afraid of water and bath time is a battle, try one of the dry shampoos.

7. There are many options for shampoos, choose one that is right for your dog.

8. Wear old clothes you will get wet.

9. Use a drain screen to prevent clogging.

One final word on dog baths and grooming in general; your dog's appearance says a lot about you and how you feel about your best friend. There is no such thing as a breed that requires no grooming.