Nowadays, there are a lot of dog products on the market. So, it’s difficult to determine what’s essential and what’s not. Many pet owners wonder whether their dogs really need their own shampoo. And, can you use human shampoo on dogs? The answer is, don’t. Check out this article to learn about this problem.
Things to consider when washing your dog
Start with a clean bucket, basin, or bathtub
It’s important to clean the tub first. You need to use a sponge to wipe down the tub. Or, you can also give it a good blast before your dog jump in the tub.
Temperature
All important factors when it comes to bathing your dog include the outdoor and water temperature. If you bath your dog with the too cold water, he can become vulnerable to illness. On the other hand, if the water is too hot, your dog can be able to face a world of discomfort. It’s important to check the water before your dog jump in the tub. It has to be at a comfortable temperature.
Get comfy
Your dog needs to be comfortable during bath time. You should prepare a mat underneath your feet if you need to stand up while bathing your dog. This purposes to give added comfort. It’s a great idea when having another person with you to help you bath the dog. As for your dog, it’s best to give him a tasty treat in order to keep him calm enough to stay until you complete washing him.
Be gentle when you wash
Avoid being rushed when washing your dog. You need to wash around your dog’s face, ears, and privates carefully because they are sensitive areas. If you are rush, you may make your dog a world of pain. For these areas, it’s best to use an old face washer to remove any dirt or grime. Soap needs to be kept away from your dog’s ears and eyes.
Can You Use Human Shampoo on Dogs?
Acidity and Alkalinity: The Ph Balance
The fact is that your skin and your dog’s skin have very different Ph balances. The skin has a thin layer that helps to prevent the topmost layer of the skin from contaminants as bacteria and viruses. In addition, it also helps to keep the body hydrated by reducing evaporation as well as absorbing water. When you wash your dog, this acid mantle may be washed away. So, it’s essential to choose shampoos with ingredients that can protect your dog’s skin. The proper balance of acidity is very important for the acid mantle.
Actually, dogs have a normal Ph balance of 6.2-7.4. You shouldn’t use a human shampoo on dogs. Indeed, it can disrupt the acid mantle. As a result, your dog easily gets parasites, bacteria, and viruses. Besides, the human shampoo can make your dog’s skin feel dry and flaky.
What can you wash your dog with?
When looking for a shampoo to maintain the pH balance of your own scalp, you also need to look for a shampoo with a pH balance for your dog’s skin. The shampoos you choose for your dog need to be in the neutral range. You can see the pH level on the label of dog shampoos.
It’s important to check the labels in order to make sure there is no color and artificial fragrances in the shampoo. Even when your dog is a big strong guy, he can still have sensitive skin. Look for one with moisturizers like aloe vera, vitamin E, tea tree oil, and honey. In addition, look for natural fragrances such as chamomile, eucalyptus, lavender, and citrus. All of them are clean and pleasant fragrances. Some of them can play a role as insect repellents.
It’s not essential to wash your dog with shampoo on a regular basis. You just need to give your dog a good cleaning every few months. So, you can use a dog shampoo bottle for a year.
The Benefits of using dog shampoo
Dog Shampoos can give your dog a lot. Furthermore, there are a lot of choices available on the market today. They are great to protect and maintain your dog’s coat. They help to keep his fur smooth and shiny after washing. Each fragrance in dog shampoos is safe for your dog. Also, they don’t threaten his skin. In addition, it’s easy to use dog shampoo. Indeed, it can be able to help you get on with bath time efficiently.
- Sensitive skin: If your dog has a sensitive skin, there are some choices of shampoo for you such as Natural Animal Solutions Herbal Shampoo for Sensitive Skin, Nootie Coconut Lime Verbena Hypoallergenic Shampoo, Joseph Lyddy Soothing Australian Tea Tree Shampoo, and so on. They are made with natural ingredients. So, your dog will feel comfortable during his bath time.
- Puppy Shampoo: This is the cutest moment of dog ownership. So, it’s best to keep your dog relaxed with one of these puppy-friendly shampoos: Pethead Puppy Fun Tearless Shampoo or Perfect Coat Puppy Shampoo.
- Flea treatment: Your dog may be fighting off fleas now. Then, it’s time to use these shampoos to remove the debris and flea dirt. They include Aristopet Flea/Tick Shampoo and Rufus + Coco Flea Flee.
- Everything in between: You should consider these everyday shampoos like Troy Shampoo & Conditioner, Fidos Everyday Shampoo, and Vets All Natural – Natural Pet Shampoo. They help to keep your dog clean.
- Scented: You can spruce up bath time with some scented shampoos such as Nootie Warm Vanilla Cookie Moisturising Shampoo, Nootie Japanese Cherry Blossom Rejuvenating Shampoo, or Fuzzyard Shampoo Tea Tree + Sweet Orange.
- Shedding: The amount of time your dog sheds depends on the weather and climate. Then, you can help your dog with one of these great de-shedding shampoos. They can help to clean out all the old fur. These choices include Pethead De Shed Me Miracle Deshedding Shampoo and Furminator Deshedding Ultra Premium Shampoo.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the human shampoos don’t come with the right level of pH to cater for puppies as well as adult dogs. Of course, your dog will have to suffer over time due to the acidity in the human or baby shampoo. So, you need to use a dog shampoo that suits all kinds of dogs with all kinds of coats.