Last updated June 2026 · Reviewed by the Pogi’s Pet Supplies team
Bath time is equal parts wet dog, soggy bathroom, and post-bath zoomies. Done right, it keeps your dog's coat and skin healthy without drying them out. Here's how to bathe your dog properly, and how to keep them clean between baths, which honestly covers most of the job.
How Often Should You Bathe a Dog?
Most dogs do well with a bath every few weeks to a few months, depending on their coat and how muddy they get. Bathing too often strips the natural oils that keep skin and coat healthy, so more is not better here.
What You'll Need
Dog shampoo (never human shampoo, the pH is wrong for dogs), a couple of towels, a brush, a non-slip mat for the tub, and treats. Have everything within reach before the water starts.
How to Wash Your Dog, Step by Step
- Brush first. This removes loose hair and mats, which only tighten when wet.
- Wet thoroughly with lukewarm water, working from the neck down.
- Lather with dog shampoo, avoiding the eyes and ears.
- Rinse completely. Leftover shampoo residue is a common cause of itchy skin, so rinse longer than you think you need to.
- Dry well with a towel and air-dry or a low dryer, paying attention to skin folds and between the toes.
- Reward so the next bath is less of a battle.
Tuck a cotton ball in each ear to keep water out, and save the face for last, cleaning it with just a damp cloth rather than pouring water over it.
The Easy Part: Between Baths
You don't need a full bath for everyday dirt. A dog grooming wipe handles muddy paws, a dirty rear, or a quick coat freshen-up in seconds, which means fewer full baths and a cleaner dog in between.
When to Check With Your Vet
If your dog still smells soon after a bath, or has itchy, red, or flaky skin or hair loss, the cause is usually skin-related rather than dirt, and a vet can help sort it out.
Skip the tub on busy days
Pogi’s Dog Wipes clean paws, coat, and rear between baths, so your dog stays fresh without the full production.
Washing Your Dog: Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I bathe my dog?
Most dogs do well every few weeks to a few months, depending on coat and activity. Bathing too often strips natural oils and dries the skin, so use wipes for quick clean-ups in between.
Can I use human shampoo on my dog?
No. Human shampoo is the wrong pH for dog skin and can cause dryness and irritation. Always use a shampoo made for dogs.
How do I keep my dog clean between baths?
Wipe them down with a dog grooming wipe, focusing on paws, the rear, and the coat, brush regularly, and keep their bedding clean.
Why does my dog still smell after a bath?
If the odor returns quickly, the source is often the ears, anal glands, skin folds, or a skin condition rather than the coat, and a vet can help pin it down.
How do I wash my dog's face?
Use just a damp cloth or a fragrance-free dog wipe on the face, avoiding the eyes, instead of pouring water or shampoo over it.
Should I brush my dog before or after a bath?
Before. Brushing first removes loose hair and mats, which tighten when wet, and makes the whole bath more effective.
