What should I keep in mind when buying a dog shampoo?
Dogs are creatures of routine. Going for walks three times a day at similar times, giving them their meals, and giving them a dental stick after dinner are some of the habits we have deeply ingrained in them, as are we. But just as important as these, the habit of bathing your dog is one of the key pillars of their health.
Bathing provides our faithful companion with a healthy dose of well-being and quality of life. We also care for their coat, removing dirt and revitalizing their fur. Bathing is also the perfect time to detect possible scratches or the attack of those dreaded fleas that have unfortunately managed to attach themselves to our dog.
To ensure that bathing provides all its benefits to our dog, we must remember not to do it too frequently, as this could cause irritation; avoid water entering the ears; and, of course, lather the dog with the appropriate shampoo.
However, finding and choosing the ideal shampoo for your dog can be a real headache. There are many types and brands, such as Arquivet, which has a wide variety of products when it comes to buying dog shampoo .
In this task, we'll need to take into account three main considerations: coat type, age, and whether your dog has any special skin needs. Below, we'll elaborate on each of these ideas to help you choose the best shampoo.
Choosing shampoo according to your dog's hair type
Dog coat types are divided into short and long, each according to specific needs and requirements. We can also distinguish between wire-haired or fine-haired, straight or curly, and wavy or dreadlocked hair, like the striking Spanish Water Dog.
Short hair
For short-haired dogs, such as the English Bull Terrier or the Boxer, one of their main advantages is that they prevent the matting problems that can occur in breeds like the Bearded Collie or the beautiful Afghan Hound. On the other hand, short hair doesn't protect their skin as well from external agents, so a nutrient-rich shampoo is the most suitable.
Long hair
If we're talking about long-haired dogs, we'll look for special ones that can help us with the arduous task of untangling the knots that frequently appear. A fabric softener or conditioner is a great help, as it will also add shine to the coat. In this regard, you can also use accessories that make detangling easier, such as combs, scissors, or brushes.
Color also matters
Our pet's coat color is also a factor to consider if we want to enhance its color and give it shine. For example, if we live with a Maltese Bichon with its immaculate white coat, there are products that contain blue pigments to tone down the yellowish tones that may appear in its fur.
For dogs with black or brown fur, we'll opt for one that includes natural collagen, which promotes shine and natural coat color.
Choosing shampoo according to your dog's age
It's very important to remember that it takes at least three months for your puppy to have his first taste of bathing. Once this period has passed and he's received the appropriate vaccinations, we'll use a specific type of shampoo for this stage of your dog's life.
In most cases, puppy shampoos include extra gentleness, since their skin and coat are more delicate. A good alternative for puppies is dry shampoo. They're easy to use, convenient to apply, and easy to remove, as a final brushing is all it takes.
During their senior years, dogs can be very sensitive to baths. The use of dry shampoos is also recommended during this period. They absorb excess oil, eliminate unpleasant odors, and prevent our pet from having a bad time in the shower when they're no longer so young.
Choosing shampoo based on your dog's special needs
Pets suffering from atopic skin are becoming more common every day. If your dog suffers from dermatological problems, there are specific shampoos that will improve the condition of their skin in cases of allergies, dermatitis, flea infestations, dandruff, infections, etc.
In this sense, we can find two main types of shampoos to help our dog with whatever condition they are suffering from: hypoallergenic shampoo and antiparasitic shampoo.
Hypoallergenic shampoo
Hypoallergenic shampoo, suitable for dogs with sensitive skin, helps keep their coats clean without irritating their skin. This type of shampoo is recommended for cases of dandruff, eczema, or hair loss. In this line, we also find soothing shampoos, especially suitable for itching or allergies.
Antiparasitic shampoo
On the other hand, if our dog is suffering from parasites like fleas, we'll opt for antiparasitic shampoo. This type kills fleas immediately and helps repel them.
We can also face a problem with strong odors. If your dog has strong body odor, you can find shampoos that contain deodorizing agents, which effectively eliminate the unpleasant odor and replace it with pleasant aromas for both your pet and you.
Ultimately, the best shampoo for your dog will be one that suits their needs, hair type, and age. Bathing your pet can be a pleasant experience for them, strengthening your relationship. If the mere sight of the shower gets your dog nervous, calm them down with kind words and a good dose of petting. Shampoo is important, but letting your dog enjoy a moment in your company while you care for them is priceless.
