The Dog Days Are Here!

Summer Pup Bathing Tips 

Can you feel it? That Florida summer heat is rising and sneaking into the days…earlier and earlier. Caring for our pets in the summer months can be a little more challenging… but certainly manageable. They want to swim more, walk in the rain, play in the sprinkler and cool off in even the sketchiest wet watering holes. Here’s some valuable bathing tips to keep your furry family members cool and comfy this summer. 

Bathing 

Long Hair Dogs: should be bathed frequently because their coats are more prone to gather dirt, debris and a buildup of dead skin. Bathing them at least once, if not twice a month is preferred. Always use a coat specific shampoo to deep clean the fur and skin and to remove the dirt and oils. Follow with a conditioner to replenish the natural oils back into the coat and help moisturize it. 

Medium Length Dogs: can be bathed monthly but should be bathed at least once every two or three months. Always use a coat specific shampoo followed with a conditioner. Without conditioner, the natural oils will be washed away from their skin and coat due to even the mildest of chemicals present in the shampoo.

Short Hair Dogs: depending on the oil and dander tendencies of your pup and whether they swim frequently or not, short hair dogs really only need to be washed every three or four months. Keep in mind that if you bathe your dog too frequently, this can lead to dry, flaky skin. 

Doglovesbest.com recommends the following bathing tips: “Keep the water lukewarm. Suds your pup up from shoulders to feet, scrubbing gently but getting the soap deep into their coat. You want to be extra thorough with paws as excess dirt can easily get trapped between toes. Wash your dog twice during summertime baths, once to get them clean and once to get them smelling great!”

PETS Picks: In our salon, we use a professional line of all natural shampoos and conditioners called Nature’s Specialties. They come in a variety of different kinds according to the specific pet coat type and skin care needs. One of our most popular specialty treatments is with the Sheazam Shea Butter Shampoo & Sheamora Shea Butter & Argan Oil Conditioner. A gentle and restorative treatment with antimicrobial benefits to aid in the relief of various skin conditions, stop breakage, and promote hair growth. 

De-shedding  

For some dog breeds, a de-shed regime is necessary during the bath. De-shedding lifts the excess undercoat and removes dead skin and hair. Double coated breeds need somewhat frequent (and definitely seasonal) de-shed treatments, and it is recommended that they should never be shaved. 

"Double-coated dogs, like huskies and German shepherds, should not be shaved because their coats regulate temperature and protect their skin from sunburn. Instead, using a de-shedding tool to remove excess undercoat will reduce shedding and help with airflow."

-dailypaws.com

PETS Picks: We use EZ Out Shampoo and EZ Shed Conditioner in our 4 step De-Shed Treatment. First the de-shed shampoo separates the coat, stimulates the hair follicles and invigorates circulation. Followed by the de-shed conditioner to loosen the undercoat. A high velocity dryer is used to further remove excess hair and then the coat is brushed and combed with a special de-shed tool. 

Drying 

To prevent any skin irritations and/or coat conditions, make sure your pet is completely dry after bathing, and all moisture in the fur is blown out. This applies to post swimming and even after the rain has gotten their coat wet.

With regards to matting, if a dog gets bathed or wet after the matting has begun, moisture to the fur only causes more mats that get tighter and therefore harder to remove. 

PETS Picks: A professional high velocity dryer is best for blowing out your pet’s coat, but for a fast and effective at-home dryer, we recommend the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer. 

Read more about pet matting here

Brushing

For dogs with furry coat types, regular brushing is always recommended, especially during the winter. Brushing removes loose and dead hair, stimulates blood circulation and helps prevent matting. It also assists with de-shedding and keeps your dog’s skin and coat healthy. Without brushing, the undercoat of double-coated breed types can easily become impacted with excessive tangles. 

PETS Picks: A good brush and comb are all you really need to keep your dog’s coat tangle and matt free. Our salon carries several high-quality spa tools and products to aid in caring for your pet’s skin and coat at home. Next time you visit our salon, ask about our De-matting Brushes & Combs, Detangling Spray and Finishing Colognes.  

The dog days of summer don’t have to feel like a drag and have your pet looking like a hot mess. Even after double dips in the pool or spontaneous rolls in the rain puddles, a good bathing and drying routine can keep them clean, matt free and “Instaworthy” for those cool summer pics!