How to Bathe a Dog with Itchy Skin

To bathe or not to bathe, that is the question! 

If your dog has itchy skin, you may be concerned that water from a bath and shampoo, which can contain irritating detergents, will make itching worse. Sometimes this is a legitimate concern; frequent bathing with the wrong kind of products can lead to dry skin, cause allergic reactions, or irritate already itchy, irritated skin that can be caused by a variety of conditions including parasites, allergies, and medical conditions. 

If your dog is suffering from itchy skin, the first step is to determine what is causing itchy skin. You may need veterinary advice to resolvethe condition, or you may need to address parasites present. 

Once the cause has been addressed, or if your dog is just experiencing run of the mill dry, itchy skin, giving your dog a bath with the right products can relieve rather than irritate itchy skin. Some products are available commercially and some can be made with common household products. Giving your itchy dog a bath can actually relieve rather than contribute to itchy skin, providing the right shampoo is used, as a bath removes dander, bacteria, yeast, and other debris that may be contributing to itchy skin on your dog.

Be sure to address any medical conditions, infections, or parasites your dog may be suffering from to resolve the issue first. Dogs can also suffer from allergies, just like us, and identifying and removing substances in your dog's environment that may be contributing to itchy skin or adjusting your dog's diet may also be required to provide relief.

If you need some expert help bathing your dog, book a Grooming service with a Pet Caregiver near you today.

• Don't use human shampoo; it has the wrong pH for your dog and is too harsh for their skin.
  
• Make sure you determine if your dog has a parasitic, bacterial, or fungal skin infection that requires medication to resolve.
  
• Rinse well to remove shampoos and conditioners.
  
• Be cautious when using essential oil products as they can be toxic to dogs. Use topically when appropriate and do not allow your dog to ingest.
  
• While bathing can relieve itchiness caused by dander, debris, bacteria, fungal organisms, and dead skin on your dog, water can also cause dry, itchy skin. Find the right balance to relieve your dog's itchy skin. It's usually recommended that you bathe your dog no more than twice a week, and with appropriate non-irritating shampoos.
  

Be gentle when applying shampoos, conditioners and drying your dog so as not to further irritate already inflamed skin. Do not leave your dog wet, as bacteria and yeast love a wet dog and will make your dog even itchier if they proliferate. Be careful drying your dog to avoid heat, which will make itching worse. 

It can be a delicate balancing act getting it just right, but well worth it in the end when you see your furry friend comfortable and itch-free.

Grooming your dog can be hard work. If you'd rather put your feet up and relax, book a Grooming service with a Pet Caregiver near you on the Wag! app today.