Opinions on bathing dogs are divided. Some people cannot imagine neglecting such an important point of dog hygiene. However, remember that sensitive dog skin requires special care. Therefore, it is worth making sure that the moments together are safe and comfortable for both parties.

Bathing a dog can be quite a challenge - especially if your pooch is not enthusiastic about this activity. In addition, if the dog has sensitive skin, prone to irritation and allergies - bathing with the use of inappropriate cosmetics can be associated with discomfort and increase undesirable symptoms.

Dog allergy shampoo - what to pay attention to?

Dry skin and irritation are common in dogs with sensitive skin, which can also be accompanied by itching and excessive scratching. In this case, it is extremely important to properly moisturize the skin and use products that are intended for animals with sensitive skin, prone to allergies and irritations.

Appropriate dog shampoos should be rich in emollients, which will not only lubricate dry skin, but will also protect the irritated epidermis - look for such products among those available on the market. The perfect shampoo will be effective and gentle on your dog's coat at the same time.

Be sure to pay attention to the composition of the shampoo - choose only one that does not contain SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), i.e. the so-called. surfactants responsible for the foaming of the cosmetic. In addition to producing foam, they have a strong drying effect and can additionally irritate the pet's delicate skin.

What to bathe a dog in?

Dog skin has different needs and appropriate care should be chosen according to them. It is best to choose a hypoallergenic shampoo, created with the specific needs of the animal in mind.

Vet Expert Hypoallergenic Shampoo is such a product . It is a dermocosmetic shampoo for sensitive skin, which is perfect for animals prone to allergies, sensitization and dehydration.

Vet Expert Hypoallergenic Shampoo is based only on mild washing substances that have been selected to thoroughly clean the skin and coat, without irritating the dog's delicate skin and mucous membranes.

Hypoallergenic Shampoo from Vet Expert does not contain SLS and SLES - thanks to which its formula is extremely delicate - even for puppies and kittens.

Why is Hypoallergenic Shampoo the best choice for your dog?

• thanks to the content of greasing emollients, it helps to maintain the proper level of hydration and nourishment of the skin
• ensures skin comfort after bathing
• regenerates sensitive skin (provitamin B5-panthenol, allantoin)
• hydrolyzed keratin cares for the good condition of the hair
• oat extract gives softness and shine to the hair and  makes it easier to comb
• the smell of the shampoo is perceptible, but very delicate and natural, thanks to which it is not irritating to the pet
• can also be used on  puppies and kittens

Read what the caretaker of a 14-year-old border collie, Szaman and a 3-month-old border terrier, Miso, the owner of the dog blog howl.pl, writes about bathing her dogs :

“A delicate shampoo is always, was and will be in our dog's cupboard - also for Shaman, our 14-year-old border collie, I value it the most. After various adventures with scratching, biting and rashes, which ended with a visit to the vet's office, I focus only on proven products. Living with allergies has no compromises, and the Vet Expert hypoallergenic shampoo is perfect for such sensitive people. Although Miso, who is less than 3 months old, has no dermatological problems in her medical record, I know that it is also important for her to use proven and delicate cosmetics.”

Hypoallergenic Shampoo from Vet Expert became the winner of the TOP FOR DOG 2020 plebiscite in the "Care and Styling" category!

How often should you bathe your dog?

Bathe your dog as often as necessary. The most important thing is that you use cosmetics specially designed for dogs to bathe your dog, which will not irritate the pet's delicate skin - even with frequent baths. Before buying, it is worth reading the labels to learn more.

Dog bath - step by step

Remember that not all breeds and not all pets like water and baths in the same way. The fact that your four-legged friend likes playing in the lake does not mean that he will approach the issue of hygiene procedures in the bathtub or paddling pool with equal enthusiasm. Therefore, it is always worth spending a lot of time on a possible bath, so as not to stress yourself and the animal with excessive haste.

If you anticipate that your pet may cause problems, make sure you have a second person to help. Make sure you bring your favorite treats or a special licking mat with a suction cup. Calmness and composure are the best methods to get your dog used to bathing.

Get your dog ready first. Thoroughly comb the coat and undercoat, get rid of tangles. Prepare all bath accessories (delicate shampoo with a neutral ph that will not irritate the skin and fur, a towel, a non-slip bath mat).

• Invite your dog to a bath. Don't rush him or make him nervous. If he gets into the bath or shower on his own, reward him with a treat. The first bath of a dog can be stressful, so reward good cooperation and slowly get the dog used to the new situation, and the dog will have additional joy.
• Turn on the water needed for bathing gradually to get your pet used to it. Check the temperature of the water before wetting the coat.
• Talk to your pet calmly and gently. Start watering from the paws, moving to the rump over the back. Then pour the water all over the dog. Avoid directing the water jet directly at your head. Be careful around the eyes and ears, especially not to get water in your dog's ears.
• Apply the shampoo to the wet coat (avoiding the head area) and massage it into the skin in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly afterwards to remove the dirt.
• Repeat the procedure, but this time leave the shampoo on the skin for 5 to 15 minutes. Thanks to this, active substances will be able to penetrate it.
• Remember to always rinse off any detergent residue thoroughly.
• Dry your dog with a towel after bathing. Drying the dog is an important part of the whole bath. Remember to gently press the material against the animal's fur, without rubbing it too much. Use a clean and soft towel to dry the coat and skin or use a blow dryer. Not all dogs like drying, and the sound of a dryer can be as soothing as the sound of running water.
• Make sure that the dog does not stay in a draft until it dries, it is better to avoid them.

Contraindications to bathing

It is worth giving it up if the skin is damaged. Then you should wait until wounds and cuts heal (unless your veterinarian decides otherwise). Puppies that are still with their mother should not be washed. You can bathe your puppy if the situation requires it, but remember to use gentle cosmetics designed for puppies and kittens, such as Vet Expert Puppy Shampoo.