How often to Bathe?

[ddigby88@msn.com]

I have a Jack Russell Terrier and there seems to be conflicting information regarding the frequency of baths! Does anyone have a good idea of how often I should bathe him? Thanks a ton!

[Tararabumzea]

Hi Digby,

I would bathe my puppy once a week ... as he is quite mischevious and tends to step in his u know wat alot lol.. but I guess an older dog would only need a bath once a month or once every 2 months or so?

[Kate]

Hi there,
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the frequency of bathing dogs. Its just like with us - someone with long hair will probably wash their hair more frequently than someone with short hair, it comes down to personal preference.

So, I wouldn't worry too much about having a strict regime as to how often to bathe your dog, just give them a wash when you think they need it Once a week or once every 2 weeks should be fine, but don't worry if your pup gets dirty and needs more frequent bathing.

Most importantly use a product designed for animals, rinse well and make sure you dry them well afterwards.

Hope this helps
Kate

[jessechp]

Hi...

My doggies normally take their bath every 2 to 3 days. They don't seem to be getting any sickness. In fact if they don't take bath after 3 days, they would show no appetite and inactive. My doggies love to take bath. They would run and play with joy immediately after taking their bath

[elmariachino]

I had the chance so far to raise several dogs of different breeds.
The question of bathing is very relative and the instructions differ
from a source to another.
For the german shepherd dog for example it ranges from once every 2 weeks according to some sources to twice per year according to other ones.
So i guess it's up to you to determine how often u chould bathe ur dog (i think the odor is a good a good indicator).

[Lady Tif]

I am no expert but this is our third Border Collie and they love water, getting wet and staying wet when ever possible. They live outside on a farm. This third one I was washing once a week when younger, she loved it, actually calmed down in the water and laid quietly while i dried her. She was spade a few weeks ago and although I want to give her a bath I am waiting until she is completely heeled. She has managed to sneak in a few dips in the creek, just lately and looks pretty well healed. They love water and attention so baths do it for them.

[Kirk B]

What's your climate like? I live in a semi-arrid climate and if you bathe some breeds too frequently they'll develop skin problems. Usually a good quality conditioner remedies the problem, you just have to pay attention.

[freewillow]

All your discussion is funny. I live in Belgium where most vets would tell you not to bath dogs unless it is necessary. They also would tell you to be carefull in cold weather. Dogs can die from getting cold. Who is telling the truth...........

[kjd]

I've had German Shepherds. Most have done fine on infrequent baths, but lots of combing and brushing (shepherds shed -- all the time!). I had one who had to be bathed every month. Her skin was very oily and she would start to smell. So it depends on the individual dog. Freewillow's vet has it right: bathe a dog only when it is necessary. (Of course, if your dog loves to be bathed, "necessary" can be quite often!)