Dog Shampoos

Which shampoo should you choose for your dog?

A good dog shampoo should above all clean the coat without compromising skin comfort. Short or long coat, sensitive skin or allergies: not all dogs have exactly the same needs.

Washing your dog's coat is necessary to remove dirt, dead skin cells, excess sebum and allergens that have accumulated in the fur. However, in cases of persistent itching, redness, significant dandruff or skin lesions, veterinary advice is necessary to identify the cause and relieve your dog's discomfort.

Why use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs?

Using your own shampoo may seem convenient, but it is not recommended at all. A dog's skin does not have the same characteristics as human skin. Human shampoos and shower gels are formulated for our skin and hair, but do not have a pH suited to a dog's skin.

A dog's skin has a delicate protective barrier. A shampoo that is too harsh can remove part of the skin's natural protective film, dry it out and contribute to tightness or itching.

How often can you wash your dog?

There is no single ideal bathing frequency that applies to every dog. It depends in particular on coat type, lifestyle, activities and the product used.

A dog that regularly rolls in mud, goes swimming or accompanies their owner on many activities will obviously not have the same needs as a dog that rarely gets dirty. On the other hand, there is no need to give your dog a full bath every time their paws get a little dirty: rinsing the affected area with water or targeted cleaning may be enough.

If your dog needs to be washed frequently, choosing a formula suited to this type of use becomes even more important. And if baths are prompted by a persistent odour or a recurring skin problem, it is better to investigate the cause rather than simply increase the frequency of bathing. Washing too frequently can be counterproductive and cause skin problems for your dog.

How to wash your dog properly

Before bathing, detangle the coat if necessary with a dog brush adapted. Wetting existing knots can make them more difficult to remove afterwards. Then gradually wet your dog with lukewarm water. Apply the shampoo and massage it into the coat without rubbing the skin aggressively. Avoid contact with the eyes and inside the ears.

Rinsing deserves particular attention: take the time to thoroughly remove any product residue, especially in areas where the coat is dense. Finish by drying your dog appropriately for their coat type, without using excessive heat.

What if my dog scratches after shampooing?

Itching can have many causes that are not necessarily related to shampoo. If it persists, is severe or is accompanied by redness, lesions, hair loss or other symptoms, ask your veterinarian for advice.

However, if you notice an unusual reaction after using a new product, stop using it and rinse the coat thoroughly if any residue may still be present.

Find the right shampoo at Waf & Co

Our selection of dog shampoos will continue to evolve to suit different coat types and uses. A shampoo does not need an endless list of promises to be suitable. For everyday care, a formula suited to your dog, their coat and bathing frequency, used correctly and rinsed thoroughly, is already a very good starting point.