How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?

Whether bathtime is your dog’s favorite thing or a dreaded event, bathing is vital to keep them clean, comfortable, and in peak condition. When done correctly, bathing helps remove dirt and allergens and rebalances the natural oils on your dog’s coat and skin. But how often should you bathe your dog to get the best results?

Many dog owners wrongly assume that frequent baths are essential, but that’s not always the case. In fact, if you’re over-bathing with products that contain harsh chemicals, you can strip the coat of its natural oils and lead to dry, irritated skin. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and how often your dog needs a bath depends on their breed, coat type, lifestyle, and overall skin health.

Of course, the key to ensuring your dog’s bath is as beneficial as possible is to lather them up with gentle, organic coat care products from Doglyness. This helps to build a strong, healthy coat and boosts the natural protective properties of the skin, leaving your dog not only clean and shiny but also in peak condition. For most dogs, a bath every one to three months is ideal. But weekly bathing can also be safe if you’re using products like Doglyness. That said, many factors influence this, so how do you determine the perfect bathing schedule for your dog? Let’s dive (and splash) into the details!

Factors That Affect How Often Your Dog Needs a Bath

There’s no universal rule for how often you should bathe your dog, so let’s take a closer look at what factors affect how often your furry friend needs a wash.

Coat Type and Length

Your dog’s coat type is one of the biggest factors in how often they need a bath, and it isn’t necessarily the length of the coat that matters! What we need to look at here is the thickness and curliness of the coat: 

• Thick, double coats (e.g., Siberian Huskies, Chow Chows, Golden Retrievers)

These dogs have a dense undercoat that naturally sheds year-round, helping keep their skin clean and preventing dirt buildup. Regular brushing is very important for these types of coats to ensure that fur doesn't become impacted and that it continues to shed naturally. Bathing too often can strip their coat’s natural oils, so a bath every 2–3 months is usually enough.

• Short, single, or wiry coats (e.g., Pitbulls, Weimaraners, most Terriers)

These coat types don’t trap much dirt or oil, and a bath every 2–4 months is generally sufficient unless they get particularly dirty.

• Soft, curly, or non-shedding coats (e.g., Poodles, Bichon Frises, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers)

These coat types are notorious for trapping dirt, oil, and debris, leading to a grimy coat that tangles easily. Bathing once a month will help keep their coat clean, and sleek, and prevent matting.

• Water-repellent or oily coats (e.g., Labradors, Newfoundlands, Cocker Spaniels)

These breeds – all of which are famous for their love of mud – have a natural layer of oils that protect their skin and coat. Overbathing can strip these oils, so bathing every 1–3 months is ideal. After a particularly muddy walk, rinsing off dirt with water can help extend the period between baths.

Regardless of coat type, it is vital to remember that your dog’s skin produces natural oils that help keep the coat hydrated and healthy. Overbathing can strip these oils, so it is essential to use a gentle, natural shampoo that won’t dry out the skin. For dogs with delicate or itchy skin, we recommend using our Oats Calming Shampoo & Conditioner, which gently cleanses while maintaining moisture and skin balance.

But while we’re strong advocates for not bathing too often, don’t forget to take care of your dog’s coat between baths! Groom your dog regularly to remove loose fur and dirt and remember to check key areas such as the eyes, ears, and nails. Dogs with loose skin folds, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, should be wiped daily to remove moisture and bacteria that lead to irritation and infections. 

Indoor vs. outdoor dogs need different bathing schedules

Indoor vs. Outdoor Lifestyle

A dog’s environment and daily activities play a significant role in how often they need a bath. Indoor dogs, who spend most of their time inside and on clean surfaces, usually require less frequent bathing unless they have a skin condition or an odor buildup. Outdoor dogs, particularly those with a sense of adventure, often find that bathtime comes around far too frequently!

If your dog is a homebody who rarely ventures into nature, an occasional bath every few months is often enough to keep them fresh and comfortable. Regular brushing and wiping down with a damp cloth can help maintain cleanliness between baths.

On the other hand, outdoor and highly active dogs – especially those who love rolling in mud, hiking, swimming, or playing in the grass – naturally accumulate more dirt and debris as they go about their daily fun. These dogs may need more frequent baths to remove grime and allergens from their coat, particularly after messy adventures.

However, even for active dogs, overbathing should be avoided to prevent stripping the skin of essential oils. Instead, wait until your dog is completely dry after their walk, then use a brush to remove dirt, loose fur, and dander. For in-between bath freshness, Doglyness Spray All Day Conditioning Spray is a great option to keep the coat hydrated, soft, and smelling great without unnecessary washing.

Signs That Your Dog Needs a Bath

Instead of following a strict schedule, paying attention to your dog’s coat, skin, and overall cleanliness can help you determine the right time for a bath. This could be anything from a few baths during one dirty week, to no bath again for months!

One of the most obvious signs is visible dirt buildup. If your dog’s coat looks dull, dusty, or has patches of mud, it’s probably time for a rinse. A strong odor is another clear indicator – while a mild ‘doggy’ smell is normal, a particularly pungent or musty scent suggests it’s time for a bath. Excessive scratching, licking, or skin irritation may also mean your pup needs a gentle cleanse, especially if allergens or dirt are causing discomfort.

Running your hands over your dog’s coat can also reveal a lot. If the fur feels greasy, sticky, or flaky, a bath can help restore balance and remove excess oils or buildup. Be sure to check areas that tend to trap dirt, such as the paws, underbelly, and ears. If these spots are particularly grimy, a full bath – or at least a targeted wipe-down – may be necessary.

If there is noticeable dirt and mud - it's time for a bath!

What Happens If You Bathe Your Dog Too Often or Not Enough?

Finding the right balance when it comes to bathing your dog is essential, as bathing too frequently or too infrequently can lead to a range of issues. Understanding these risks can help you develop a bathing routine that keeps your dog clean while maintaining their skin’s natural balance.

The Dangers of Overbathing

Frequent washing strips the coat of its natural oils, which are essential for keeping the skin hydrated and the fur healthy. This can lead to dryness, itchiness, and even excessive shedding. Over time, the skin may become more sensitive and prone to irritation, redness, and flaking.

In addition, overbathing can lead to skin allergies or reactions, particularly if using shampoos with harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or sulfates. If your dog requires frequent baths, opt for a natural, organic shampoo like Doglyness Immortelle Rejuvenating Shampoo to help cleanse the coat gently while supporting overall skin health.

The Risks of Underbathing

Dogs that go too long without a bath may develop greasy or flaky skin, which can cause discomfort and excessive scratching. This is due to a buildup of dirt, oil, and bacteria on the skin, increasing the risk of infections, irritation, and inflammation. 

For dogs with long coats, infrequent bathing and grooming can lead to severe matting. These dense mats of hair trap dirt, moisture, and bacteria against the skin, causing pain and increasing the risk of skin infections.

Odor buildup is another downside of underbathing – while a mild doggy scent is normal, strong or unpleasant odors may indicate that it's time for a wash. Additionally, a dirty coat can increase the risk of fleas, ticks, and other parasites.

If your dog doesn't need a full bath but could use a refresh, a thorough brushing session and application of a leave-in conditioning spray can help keep your dog’s coat free of dirt and loose fur. 

Bath time is a great opportunity to bond with your dog

Best Practices for Bathing Your Dog

One aspect of bathtime many dog owners forget is that a pre-bath grooming session can work wonders! Removing loose fur, dirt, and tangles with a brush before wetting the coat makes the shampoo more effective and guarantees incredible results. 

When bathing your dog, always use lukewarm water and a gentle, toxin-free shampoo to avoid causing discomfort and irritation. Choosing an organic, Ecogea-certified shampoo, like the Doglyness Coat Care range, ensures that you’re using a product made with safe, plant-based ingredients that nourish and protect the skin while providing a thorough cleanse.

Once you’ve rinsed all traces of shampoo from the coat, it is time to pay attention to drying. Towel drying is a great first step, but for long-haired or double-coated breeds, a low-heat blow dryer can help speed up the drying process. Brush the coat thoroughly once dry to evenly distribute natural oils and keep it smooth and tangle-free.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? A Summary

When it comes to bathing your dog, there’s no one-size-fits-all schedule, so don’t listen to anyone who tells you otherwise! The right bathing frequency depends on your dog’s coat type, breed, lifestyle, and individual skin needs.

Some dogs require monthly baths to keep their coat fresh, while others are best washed as infrequently as possible. So, instead of following a strict routine, the ideal approach is to observe your dog’s coat condition, skin health, and overall cleanliness to determine when it’s time for a bath. Regardless of how often your dog needs a wash, using high-quality, organic grooming products is essential for maintaining healthy skin and a well-nourished coat. Harsh shampoos strip natural oils and cause irritation, while gentle, toxin-free formulas cleanse effectively without disrupting the skin’s natural balance.

For a happier, healthier pet, we urge you to choose grooming products that prioritize your dog’s well-being. Explore Doglyness’s award-winning range of organic, vegan shampoos and conditioners and give your pup the gentle, nourishing care they deserve!