How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?

A general rule for most dogs

There is no single schedule that suits every dog, but sources agree on a range. VCA Animal Hospitals says non-shedding breeds with no health issues typically need a bath about every six to eight weeks, and the AKC's grooming advice for indoor Labrador Retrievers is about every four to six weeks. The ASPCA sets a minimum of at least once every three months, with more frequent baths for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or have skin problems.

Between those numbers, let your dog's coat and nose guide you. A bath is due when the coat looks greasy, feels gritty, smells doggy, or after your dog rolls in something, when a dog shampoo made for dogs is the right choice over a human product. A well-brushed coat stays cleaner for longer, so regular brushing stretches the time between baths.

How often by coat type

Hairless and very fine-coated breeds, such as the Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli, have skin that collects oils, and the AKC notes they may need weekly baths. Curly, continuously growing coats such as Poodles, Bichons and doodles usually need a bath every four to six weeks, often alongside a trim. Long, silky coats like Shih Tzus and Yorkies tend to need baths every few weeks with brushing in between.

Thick double coats, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Huskies, generally need fewer baths, perhaps every couple of months, with extra baths during seasonal shedding to help loosen the undercoat. Short, smooth coats like Beagles, Boxers and pit bull types often do well every two to three months, with a damp cloth rubdown between baths.

Lifestyle and skin health

Active dogs who swim, hike, roll in mud or work outdoors need more baths than couch companions. Rinse with fresh water after swimming in pools, lakes or the ocean, because chlorine, algae and salt can dry the skin. Dogs who share your bed, or live with someone who has allergies, may benefit from more frequent gentle baths.

Dogs with skin conditions are different. VCA notes that medicated baths are often used weekly, but always follow your vet's instructions, because the right product and frequency depend on the condition. If your dog seems to need baths very often to control an odor, greasy coat or itch, ask your vet, since an underlying skin or ear problem may be the real cause.

Between full baths, regular brushing with the right dog brushes or a dry shampoo for dogs can freshen the coat.

How often to bathe a puppy

Puppies get dirty, but their skin is more delicate. VCA suggests healthy dogs generally should not be bathed more than about once a month, which is a sensible guide for puppies too. Spot-clean muddy paws or messes with a damp cloth, and bathe when the whole coat needs it. Use a gentle shampoo made for puppies, lukewarm water, and keep water out of the ears.

Early baths are as much about training as cleaning. Short, calm baths with lots of treats teach your puppy that bath time is fine. Dry your puppy thoroughly and keep it warm afterward, as small puppies chill quickly.

Signs you are bathing too much

Bathing too often, or with the wrong product, can strip the natural oils that protect your dog's skin and coat. Watch for dry, flaky skin, dandruff, a dull or brittle coat, or increased itching after baths. A groomer quoted by the AKC warns that overbathing can strip oils and affect the insulation of thick coats.

Use a mild shampoo made for dogs, not human shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and brush between baths instead of washing more often. If itching, redness, scabs, hair loss or odor continue despite sensible bathing, book a vet visit to check for allergies, parasites or infection.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.