How to Bathe a Dog without Dog Shampoo
Need regular grooming services?
Introduction
You let your Golden Retriever out in the backyard for a few minutes, get distracted, go to let him in an hour later, and he has dug a hole in the back corner of your yard. It rained last night and now he is covered in wet mud and goodness only knows what else, but there's a problem: you're out of dog shampoo. Now what?
Good news! You have a few options you can use from supplies you have at home. When using alternative shampoos to those specifically designed for dogs, be careful of the pH level. If you use substances that are acidic like vinegar combined with other substances, you will need to watch the resulting pH level, as substances that are too acidic can irritate your dog's skin. Using human shampoo is usually not a good option, as humans have skin with a lower pH than dogs and ingredients present in human shampoo may not be appropriate for dogs' skin.
Dog's Perspective
The Homemade Shampoo Method
The Dry shampoo Method
Caution & Considerations
Watch the pH of any shampoo or cleanser you use on your dog so that you do not irritate or dry out his skin.
Make sure all shampoos are thoroughly rinsed out, so residue does not remain that could irritate the skin or that your dog could lick off.
Be careful of human shampoos and other detergents, they may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Even some essential oils contain plant compounds that can make your dog sick.
When bathing your dog with any shampoo, always make sure he is standing on a non-slip surface to avoid injury.
Be careful of eyes ears and mouth when shampooing your dog. Avoid getting any shampoos or detergents in these areas, especially the eyes.
Watch your dog after bathing with an alternate shampoo to make sure he does not experience an allergic reaction.
Conclusion
Not having dog shampoo on hand does not have to be a crisis--there are alternatives for cleaning your dog. Although shampoos specifically designed for dogs are usually the best option, as they are non-toxic and designed for the pH and chemical make-up and needs of your dog's skin, temporary alternatives are available using household products. No need to keep smelling a funky dog until you have time to get to the store!
Success Stories and Grooming Questions
Grooming Questions & Answers
Aries
My dog is allergic to 2 different dog shampoos and I'm afraid to try a different brand is there a more genital solution or different alternative than dog shampoo.
0 Dog owners recommended
Hi Marie, using an oatmeal bath on Aries may be the solution. It's a natural product that can soothe irritated skin. Grind 2 cups of oatmeal so that it forms a powder. Add it to a bath of cool to tepid water (too warm water can cause irritation of the skin). Pour the bath water over the skin and gently massage the oatmeal water into the skin. Rinse well but don't worry if you can't get all of the oatmeal out because it can be easily brushed out once the fur is completely dry. Have you consulted your veterinarian? They can recommend a shampoo for Aries that is formulated especially for a dog with sensitivity to regular dog shampoo. Good luck!
