Myth #1: It is not good to wash your dog too much. Okay, let’s define “too much.” Once upon a time, we thought that washing your dog more than every six months or so would dry the coat out. That was true when dog shampoos were made out of generic chemical detergents that stripped the natural oils from the dog’s fur. That was when dog shampoos were a utilitarian afterthought, and dogs were second-class citizens. Dogs are now part of our families, and canine shampoos are designed with the same care as human products. Most good quality canine shampoos are natural and not harsh. The ingredients are specifically-based, herb-infused and can be easily pronounced. They have multi-purpose benefits, and many are dermatological specialty products. Many dog shampoos are eco-friendly and cruelty-free. These luxurious soap free cleansers and conditioners can be used weekly with excellent results. Remember that you must consider your dog’s breed, hair coat, and living/play conditions in order to determine what duration of time between washing is best for you.
Myth #2: You can’t put shampoo on the dogs face, or they do not like when you put shampoo on their face. Many people believe that a clean body with a stinky face is acceptable because they do not want the shampoo to burn the dog’s eyes. Others believe that their dog really does not like it. I believe that the dog’s face needs a good cleaning as it becomes your primary kissing point, and with the right products, you can wash the dog’s face without any physical, emotional, or mental harm to your canine companion. There are many gentle, tear-free products that are developed especially for use on the face. Yes, there are even doggie facials now. Dog facials come in many varieties and are not simply a luxury item. They are very important to the health and welfare of your dog. The first dog and cat facial was developed nine years ago right here in San Diego, and it is none other than South Bark’s Blueberry Facial. It is cleansing, calming, and color-enhancing. Dogs like the relaxation and the massage, and you will like the scent and the way it makes your dog look. In the beginning, dogs act a bit like young children when you wash their faces. They will struggle and shake their heads somewhat. Once they understand what is happening to them, and you develop a soothing technique, they calm down dramatically. Dogs end up liking a facial and having a clean face. They will close their eyes while you rinse, and bliss out. It’s great.Another worrisome aspect is that many people believe that you must not get any water at all into a dog’s ears. It is true that you need to be careful not to put water directly into the ear canal. You must dry the ear out very well at the end of the bath. Nevertheless, dogs can go swimming and they can have water go over their ear-flaps, or around their upright ears while washing the face. You should actually clean the ears while you are bathing the dog with a nice dog-designed ear cleaner that you pick up at the vet or your favorite dog supply store. Cleaning the face, ears, and even the collar while you are bathing the dog only adds to the hygienic health package that you are creating.
Myth #3: If you use flea treatments, you can’t wash your dog, or it will take away the potency of the medicine. It is true that dog shampoo that uses a detergent/soap will take the potency of the usual topical flea treatments down about 10% each bath. The shampoo does not affect any flea treatment that is taken orally, only those that are applied to the skin in a topical fashion. Use a soap-free cleansing shampoo especially during flea season. Most natural shampoos use soap-free cleansers anyway because they are so gentle. You may be using one now and do not know it. It is also very good to wait 48-72 hours after topical flea application to bathe your dog so that the treatment’s potency is at its maximum effect. You can bathe your dog before you do the flea treatment, but the same rules apply only for a different reason. Bathing prior to treatment dilutes the potency if you do not give the skin enough time to release the skin’s natural oils. Waiting 48-72 hours will allow a more accurate spread of the flea treatment. Despite the time frame, it is always a good idea to bathe your dog in order to remove dirt and fleas that will bring down effectiveness of the treatments. Poor hygiene and bacteria from the dog biting and scratching itself because of fleas can lead to many secondary skin infections and conditions. So please, be educated and smart, but do not be negligent in the flea treatment bathing process.
Myth #4: My dog does not need conditioner. In the truest sense, your dog, and for that matter you, do not “need” a conditioner. Without conditioning your hair, you can both experience split ends, sun damage, and dry brittle hair. While true that adding omega 6 and omega 3 essential fatty acids to your dogs diet in fish oil or other plant based EFA blends will give your dog a lustrous coat, you will not feel the true softness that a conditioner will provide. Snuggling with your clean dog can relieve much of the stressors that life can bring. Hugging and kissing your dog is almost supernatural in its ability to calm you and the dog. It’s nice to do even if the dog is not clean or conditioned, but, come on, there is a nurturing element to a dog that is soft as a bunny and smells good. Using a conditioner will not harm the dog and only help with softness. So, use one, and pet your dog liberally.

I have addressed just a few of the dog washing myths that are swirling around. I hope this information has helped you understand that the concept and process of washing the dog is as important as the products used. San Diego dogs are urban dogs, and they live in our houses and sleep in our beds. Dogs and cats are part of our families. In my household, my dogs stay as clean as any other member of the household. Think about it!