It’s nearly bedtime and you’ve just let your dog outside one last time before turning in. As your furry friend reaches the door, a familiar stench arises – skunk!

The only logical course of action is to get your dog into the tub immediately to eliminate the odor from your home, your pet, and your nose.

While this scenario might be a common reason to bathe your dog, it’s also important to have a regular bathing routine. Here’s a comprehensive guide on when to lather up your pup.

How frequently should you bathe your dog?

The frequency depends on your dog’s breed, lifestyle, and coat type. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) suggests bathing them at least once every three months.

However, it’s essential to understand your dog’s habits – does your dog love playing outside in the mud or prefer snuggling up indoors?

Additionally, coat length plays a role in how often you should bathe your dog. As suggested by BeChewy, dogs with medium or long coats should be washed every four to six weeks, while short-haired dogs can typically go bathe every one to three months.

Be cautious not to over-bathe your dog; washing thick-coated breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or Siberian Huskies too frequently can remove essential oils from their skin, disrupting their natural insulation, according to the American Kennel Club.

When in doubt, give your furry friend a bath when they appear dirty. If they’re dusty, sticky, or giving off an unpleasant odor, consider that a sign it’s time for a bath.

How often should you groom your dog?

Regular grooming keeps both the dog and the owner happy – it helps limit excessive shedding and matting, which can lead to discomfort or infections.

The ASPCA recommends that dogs with long hair should be brushed each day, while those with shorter coats can be groomed weekly.

If your dog’s fur gets long enough to cover their eyes, ears, or paws, regular trims may also help. Some owners might prefer to do it themselves, but taking your dog to a professional groomer is a good option too.

Do dogs enjoy baths?

This varies by dog; some may be more apprehensive around water than others, just like people.

For dogs that are nervous about baths, Rover suggests providing a distraction, such as spreading peanut butter on a wall or offering treats. Alternatively, you might try using a bucket to bathe them instead of a showerhead, treating them like a baby.

After a bath, many dogs will shake themselves dry or run around energetically. This behavior is typical; they may be trying to release some pent-up energy or simply want to return to their familiar scent, as noted by Rover.