Why You Need Good Dog Shampoo

We all want what is best for our family. For many of us, our pets are members of the family. We adore our hairy, four legged companions! We want them to eat good food, get enough exercise and be as healthy as they can possibly be. That means we may buy special dog food, take them on walks every day and make sure they go to the vet to stay updated on all shots and vaccines. But did you know washing our dogs is important for their health as well? It is good for their coat and their skin. Bathing our dogs not only keeps them clean but also can protect them from parasites. It can reduce shedding and even help with allergies, both yours and theirs. Dog’s fur is a perfect place for allergens, dirt and bacteria, so by bathing our dogs properly we can keep allergies under control. Another added bonus is that they will smell A LOT better, making them even more pleasant to be around.

Unlike humans, dogs do not need to be bathed every day. If they get bathed more often then truly necessary, we could strip our dog’s coat of it's natural oils. How regular our dogs need to be washed is determined by the dogs environment and the type of coat they have. For instance, are they inside, or outside dogs? Do they play in mud or rub in ‘who knows what’ often? Do they have a thick coat or a thin coat? One of the most effective and simple ways to gauge whether or not our dog needs a bath is to give them a good sniff. If they smell gross then its time to start the bath water.

Steps to remember while bathing our dogs:

• Always remember to brush your dog before giving them a bath. Matted hair holds water, which can leave your dog with irritated skin.

• Lukewarm water has proven to be the most universally tolerated temperature for dogs. But if you know your dog, and they prefer it colder or warmer, feel free to adjust to their liking. Keep in mind that you do not want the water temperature hotter than you would use for a baby.

• Some dogs just don’t like baths, so talk calmly to them and reassure them that you are not torturing them. How you act will affect their behavior.

• Use dog shampoo. Human shampoo can dry dogs skin out. It is wise to use shampoo specifically for dogs. Lather up your soap and start from the paws up. Of course, try your best not to get soap in dog's eyes, ears, or nose.

• Rinse well. If any soap is left on their fur it can irritate their skin. Rinse from their head down, in order to remove soap from sensitive areas. Rinse until the water is clear.

• The best way to dry our dogs in by using a towel or air drying. Sometimes a human blow dryer will be too hot and that can cause itching and dandruff.

• Last but not least, reward your dog. Praise them, love on them and tell them they did a good job. If you want you could even give them a treat. Doing this should help your dog view bathes as a fun time.

As mentioned above, it is important to use a shampoo specifically meant for dogs. That is why we have made an all natural dog shampoo bar. We want what is best for our dogs so why not give them the best. Our shampoo is allergy free, and great for sensitive skin. Allergies are common among dogs and humans, so stop using cleansers that could make them worse. Our super gentle shampoo bar contains no parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances or dyes. It is made with moisturizing organic safflower and castor oil, coffee grounds that are said to be more odor absorbing than tomato juice, and a blend of great smelling essential oils that are naturally insect repelling.

We love our dogs! So next time we notice our hairy buddies are starting to smell, start that bath water and grab your dog shampoo.