How Often Should You Wash Your Dog?

Is your pup smelling a little ripe? How often and when to bathe your dog can depend on several factors. "Dogs don't need baths as often as humans," says Dr. Callie Harris, a veterinarian at Purina, who is based in Atlanta, and judge of ABC's Pooch Perfect, a new dog grooming competition show.

How Often Does Your Dog Need a Bath?

How often you bathe your dog can vary depending on their coat type, lifestyle, and health conditions. But a good rule is about once a month. Dr. Harris says you can let your nose make the call. "My personal gauge is when I am kicking my dog out of the bed. This usually means it's time for a bath," she says.

If you have a very young puppy, it's a good idea to hold off baths for a bit. Young puppies can't regulate their body temperature, so their first bath shouldn't be before about eight weeks old.

Long haired breeds, like Shih Tzus or Collies, and double-coated breeds, like Labs, Beagles, and Huskies, obviously need more bathing to keep long or thick coats clean and mat-free. Short hair breeds who don't get that dirty may need less washing.

What Products Should You Use to Wash Your Dog?

Dr. Harris says to use dog-safe shampoo, and for those double-coated breeds, a de-shedding shampoo can help cut down on the amount of hair they shed. "No matter what shampoo you choose, make sure you thoroughly rinse all product out of your dog's coat to prevent any skin irritation."

Doggie conditioner is probably not necessary for most breeds, but long-haired dogs whose fur can mat easily may benefit. Check with your vet or groomer about the best conditioners for a long-haired breed. Conditioners also come in de-shedding formulas.