How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog?

Bathing your dog seems simple, right? Get them wet, lather up, rinse, repeat. But one of the most common questions dog owners ask is: “How often should I actually be bathing my dog?”

The answer? It depends — on your dog’s breed, coat type, lifestyle, and even skin health. Overbathing can cause dryness and irritation, while underbathing can lead to dirt buildup, matted fur, and that familiar “dog smell.” So let’s break it down.

For most dogs, once every four to six weeks is perfectly fine. This keeps their coat clean and healthy without stripping the natural oils that protect their skin. But that’s just a general rule. Some dogs might need bathing more often, and others far less. A lot depends on their coat. Short-haired dogs, like Boxers or Staffies, usually stay cleaner longer and don’t trap as much dirt, while curly or long-haired breeds like Poodles or Cockapoos may need more regular cleaning. Breeds with thick, double coats — like Huskies or Retrievers — do best with a monthly bath, combined with plenty of brushing.

Lifestyle plays a big part too. If your dog loves to dig in the garden, roll in puddles, or explore muddy trails, they’ll probably need a bath more often than the dog who prefers a nap on the sofa. On the flip side, if your dog mostly stays indoors and doesn’t get into much mess, you can safely go longer between washes.

It’s also important to think about your dog’s skin. Dogs with sensitive skin or allergies may need medicated shampoos or a special bathing routine recommended by a vet. Bathing too often — especially with the wrong products — can actually make skin problems worse, so always choose a gentle, dog-specific shampoo and speak to your vet if your dog has ongoing skin issues.

And of course, sometimes the decision is made for you. If your dog has rolled in something smelly or questionable, it’s time for a bath, no matter how recently their last one was.

When bath time comes around, keep it calm and positive. Use lukewarm water, be gentle around the ears and face, and dry them off properly with a towel (or a hairdryer on a cool setting if they’ll allow it). Lots of praise and a tasty treat afterwards helps make it a good experience — especially if baths aren’t their favourite thing.

In short, you don’t need to bathe your dog every week — and in fact, it’s usually better not to. For most dogs, a monthly bath along with regular brushing will keep them looking and feeling their best.

And if you want to make bath day extra special, why not treat your dog to something from Rusty’s Pet Pantry? Our boxes are packed with hand-picked treats and toys — perfect for rewarding a freshly cleaned pup.