Should I Wash My Dog?
If a dog doesn’t have a skin or hair coat disease, there is no need for them to be washed regularly (or ever) at least that is for the dog’s sake. If your dog lives inside and you give it lots of cuddles you will want it smelling clean and hygienic and will need to wash it regularly.
It is not bad for a dog with normal healthy skin and coat to be washed regularly as long as you use a suitable shampoo. The pH (acidity) of human skin is different to dogs. Human shampoos are not great for dogs because of this reason. They can cause dry skin and itchiness for some dogs.
If you wash your dog regularly choose an everyday, moisturising dog shampoo. If your dog has dry or itchy skin, it is very good for the skin to be washed regularly. Washing gets any allergens off the skin and it helps moisturise and cool the skin. For itchy, sensitive dogs you should use a soap-free, moisturising shampoo (preferably oatmeal based) and also use a moisturising oatmeal conditioner.
Do not use medicated pet shampoos unless advised by your vet. These shampoos are suitable to help with secondary bacterial and yeast infections in the skin. They are not suitable for itchy, dry skin and will make the skin worse by drying it more. Dry skin is itchy and allows infection through the skin barrier a lot easier. If you are using medicated shampoos, always follow up with a moisturising conditioner.