Dogs are an inseparable part of our daily life. So, they need as much protection from germs, bacteria and diseases as we do. Dog shampoos are designed to achieve that purpose.
This is a vital component of his grooming requirement. There are differences in shampoos depending on the issue your dog is facing. Dry or itchy or oily skin, odor, dandruff, infection, parasites, etc are a few of those concerns worth mentioning.
There comes the fact of natural and chemical based shampoos too. We are going to dig deep into dog shampoo requirements and classifications. You can use multipurpose products as well as a dedicated items. It is actually determined by the requirement of the dog.
Can you bathe a dog using human shampoo?
No, human shampoo should not be applied To a dog. Occasional use will not affect the dog too much. But regular practice will cause immense damage to itchy skin.
Differences in pH balance spell some disasters in the form of virus, bacteria and parasite attacks. It leaves his skin in a dry state which ultimately leads to scratches and abrasions.
Are dog shampoos and people shampoos different?
Yes. Here, the most important differentiation lies in the pH level of dog skin. The average human skin pH level is 5.5 which is acidic in nature.
On the other hand, a dog skin has about 7.5 pH level and it is alkaline. This mismatch in pH level demands variation in chemical formation between a human shampoo and a dog shampoo.
There is also an issue with fragrance elements. These are different for dogs and humans. Dog shampoo fragrance comes from citrus, eucalyptus and neem. These are natural bacteria resistant components.
Dog skin is more sensitive than that of man. People shampoos are basically acidic in nature. This will result in health hazard, loss of natural shine of his hair and skin problems.
In the long run, their coat appearance will become dull because his coat will inevitably lose its natural oils. The absence of oils will invite all kinds of parasites and bacteria on the coat. Using a proper dog shampoo and conditioner happens to be the only solution.
Why does a baby shampoo fit the puppy?
If you run out of dog shampoo, it is okay to use baby shampoo on your dog. Well, there arises a contradiction as human shampoos have just been prohibited here in this article.
Now, we have to understand that an adult product and a baby product fundamentally differ in their components. Harsh chemicals are absent in a baby item. It has a mild nature.
So, dog skin pH level remains intact. The dog also does not suffer from any skin irritation or allergic effects. The most important issue is to select an unscented baby shampoo so that you can detect chemical presence based on its smell.
You can occasionally apply baby shampoo but not regularly.
Does oatmeal shampoo meet dog requirements?
Oatmeal shampoo promises you a complete natural formula. It suffices his skin pH level, skin irritation or itching necessities.
Oatmeal scales down skin related problems thanks to avenanthramides and phenols. It guarantees required skin moisture. You can remove allergies and dry skin with oatmeal shampoo.
So, it is really one of a kind shampoo for dogs with dermatological issues.
Can I use human conditioner on dogs?
The ASPCA bars human conditioner for dogs. Again, it is all about skin irritation. Human conditioners are often too oily for a dog. But if you occasionally have no other way than using a people conditioner, it will not harm your puppy.
On the other hand, dog conditioners are always there to shape up a glossy coat. It is meant for proper hydration of the coat, excellent smell and health. Dog conditioner actually seals the hair shafts opened while bathing.
Otherwise, these exposed shafts rapidly let go his skin moisture. These hair cuticles also turn into the entry point for dirt and germs.
What to do if shampoo goes into dog’s eye?
First and foremost, you should buy a gentle shampoo that does not carry any harmful ingredient. Especially, eye safe shampoos are better. Harsh dog shampoos can damage eyes.
Entering his eyes, it will cause some irritation or redness. Whenever you detect shampoo in dog eyes, immediately wash it out. Saline solution can be handy in this regard. Prepare yourself for some obstruction from the dog in your cleaning efforts. If this measure fails to prevent redness, you better go to vet.
Here, we should caution that you must not scrub his eyes. It will worsen the problem. You have another trick up your sleeve. Put some petroleum jelly on the border of his eyes. It will successfully thwart water intrusion into the sensitive organ.
Can I use tea tree shampoo on my dog?
Tea tree oil is not a product of the well known tea tree. It is identified as Melaleuca Alternifolia which is native to Australia.
This oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Most of the synthetic products contain chemical components which are often responsible for unintended consequences on the skin while curing bacterial or fungal inflammation.
Tea tree oil has a proven positive track record in this regard.
Especially, tea tree oil acts as a dog flea and tick specialist. You can use it both daily and weekly based on the infestation of ticks and fleas. It can be applied with a shampoo or simply as an oil. It benefits your dog skin as well as coat.
Here, we should note that there is an element in tea tree oil known as cineole. It is responsible for allergic effects in some dogs.
So at first, apply a small amount or ask your vet. In this way, you can check and balance the side effects.
What does a hypoallergenic dog shampoo promise?
Anti allergy dog shampoos are designed to avert dander attacks. Dander is to blame for dog related allergies. Hypoallergenic shampoos not only clean hair but also take care of the dander as well.
These shampoos lessen the amount of allergens that the dog sheds in your place. Actually, allergens are responsible for allergies and dander is a part of it. You can control both seasonal allergies and ramp up the fortification of sensitive skin using a hypoallergenic shampoo.
If you are an allergy sufferer, you can parent a hypoallergenic dog on top of putting a hypoallergenic shampoo in regular baths. These are generally really gentle products.
You have all the reasons to become cautious of dyes, chemicals and fragrances in these shampoos. Such elements cause more physical harm than creating illusive sensory feelings.
Because of a wrong shampoo, his eyes, skin and hair might get damaged. However, we should remember that a unique dog may have a unique allergic trigger. It makes the production of hypoallergenic shampoo all the more difficult.
In a word, there is no one-solution-for-all package in this segment. But these products focus on removing the most significant allergens.
So, it works most of the time as a dog rarely suffers from allergic reactions. Not to forget that you and your family members are the true victims by the allergens produced by the dog.
A hypoallergenic shampoo scales down dog induced allergens in your surroundings.
What is the job of an anti itching shampoo for dogs?
Itchy skin has several reasons to take place. We have to find out the causes so that we can take due precautions against them. Dry and irritated skin, parasite attack, seasonal allergies, bacterial infection as well as skin sensitivity can cause itching. Dog shampoo for itchy skin is a protection against these basic issues.
Mosquito bites along with parasite attacks by fleas and ticks are usually the main itching sources.
As dogs are irregular at bathing, fleas and ticks start munching on a dog coat. Tea tree oil is a fantastic flea remover and it is natural. Ill ingredients in a shampoo can trigger the itching issue as well.
In such a case, you may take assistance from a hypoallergenic shampoo. Weather and seasonal changes are also capable of contributing to this problem with allergic effects. Dry skin is another major factor. Poor shampoo quality, Winter weather impacts, imbalanced diet and unnecessary baths do harm dog skin.
In case your dog has a dry skin problem, you must use a moisturizing shampoo. It will provide his coat with the necessary oils.
Medicated dog shampoo comes to the fore when there is an injury or cut, inflammation, hot spot or red rash on the skin. These problems call for a dedicated dog shampoo that is completely devoid of any harmful components.
These shampoos can be applied to the affected zone for rapid recuperation. Medicated shampoos are not supposed to be used at all times. This is also known as antiseptic dog shampoo.
What does a good smelling dog shampoo mean?
Dog odor is one of the worst things that you may have to encounter. On top of that if it is a regular phenomenon, you must have to endure a lot. Some dogs just never stop producing mind boggling odor.
Here comes the role of a dog shampoo that smells good for a long time. Even shortly after a nice bath it might start all over again.
We have to consider several factors before choosing the right kind of good smelling shampoo. Dog nose is far more powerful than that of yours. But his acute olfactory sense does not naturally make him a lover of perfumes.
He however does not mind getting knee deep into the garbage or a rollover in the yard.
So, do not go for a too smelly one. It will be torture on the dog. There are some smells that a dog can go along with such as oatmeal, vanilla, aloe, almond, eucalyptus and neem. But anything heavy or overpowering is not very welcome.
Why should you use dog dandruff shampoo?
Unlike human hair, dog fur covers them altogether. So, dandruff can be a menace if left untreated. But luckily this is a small health issue not requiring much of a preparation. In a normal case, it can be prevented with careful eyes.
How can you identify dog dandruff?
Dry skin gives you a better shot at noticing dandruff. On the other hand, oily skin can successfully hide this monster for a long time. In fact, dog dandruff is equivalent to falling off skin.
A common symptom is itchy or irritated skin. The dog will scratch his skin all the time. You should take measures when lumps of dry skin are coming out.
What may be the biggest health hazard related to dog dandruff?
Gradual thinning of fur in some areas is a big red mark. Dog dandruff shampoo is designed for both simple and serious instances. If possible, consult a vet before applying any shampoo.
What is the role of flea shampoo for dogs?
Flea infestation depends on the quality of his living place, company of the other animals and climate related factors. It is a tropical phenomenon that relies on the carrier for sustenance.
In a cold climate, summer and often spring introduces flea infestation. 18-27 degree celsius is an ideal temperature.
Flea shampoo for dogs can eliminate the infestation. Flea special medicated shampoo removes fleas and prevents its future return for a specific period of time. Some of these shampoos kill the insects.
But you have to apply it and wait for about 10 minutes or so for an effective result. Continue with the shampoo for total elimination. In a severe situation, you may want to visit the vet.
How do fleas look like?
Fleas are small, really small. They are reddish brown in color and can fit well on the head of a matchstick. This color is a representation of their food habit. When they are hungry, they will look like whitish yellow.
But supply them with enough blood and they quickly transform into reddish brown. They will never come out in light just like bugs. So, you will catch them red handed inside thighs, stacked skin folds, belly areas and thick fur.
How do they inflict harm upon a dog?
First of all, these are blood sucking insects. Their bites leave a mark of itchiness that the dog will subsequently undergo. Especially, an allergic dog is a poor victim of fleas.
What are the most common symptoms of fleas?
Severe itching, scratching, inflammation, hair loss and skin infection are consequences of flea attack.
Finally:
True dog care means regular baths for the dog. And dog bath is never complete without a proper shampoo at your disposal. So, get the shampoo today and prove your love for the best furry friend in your house.
