How Often Should I Bathe My Dog? (By breed + coat type)

If you’re wondering how often you should bathe your dog, you’re not alone! One of the most common questions pet parents ask veterinarians and professional dog groomers is how often to give their pup a bath. The truth is: how often you should wash your dog depends on several factors, including your dog’s breed, coat type, skin health, lifestyle, and even where you live. In this guide, we’ll break it down by breed and coat type so you can create the best bathing schedule for your furry friend.

Why Bathing Your Dog Is So Important

Regular dog baths help maintain healthy skin and coat, reduce shedding, control odor, and prevent parasites and skin infections. Bathing also gives you a chance to check for lumps, bumps, fleas, or ticks. However, over-bathing can strip essential oils, leading to dry skin, itching, and irritation. That’s why it’s crucial to get the frequency right!

 

General Dog Bathing Guidelines

Before we get into specific breeds and coat types, here’s a general rule of thumb:

Dog Lifestyle	Bathing Frequency
Indoor dog, low activity	Every 6–8 weeks
Active outdoor dog	Every 4–6 weeks
Dogs with oily skin (e.g., Basset Hounds)	Every 1–2 weeks
Dogs with skin conditions	As directed by your veterinarian

👉 Pro Tip: Always use a dog-safe shampoo—never human shampoo, as it can disrupt the pH balance of your dog’s skin.

How Often to Bathe Your Dog By Coat Type

1️⃣Short-Haired Dogs

Short-haired dogs like Boxers, Beagles, Dobermans, and Chihuahuas have coats that don’t trap much dirt.

✅ Bathing frequency: Every 6–8 weeks, or as needed if they roll in something stinky.

✅ Best shampoo: Gentle, moisturizing formulas.

2️⃣ Double-Coated Breeds

Double-coated dogs like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies, and Labradors have a soft undercoat and a harsher topcoat. Over-bathing can strip the protective oils that keep their coat water-resistant.

✅ Bathing frequency: Every 6–12 weeks.

✅ Pro grooming tip: Brush frequently to remove loose undercoat and reduce the need for baths.

✅ Best shampoo: De-shedding or undercoat-specific shampoo.

 

3️⃣ Curly or Wavy-Coated Breeds

Dogs like Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Portuguese Water Dogs have coats that can trap debris and mat easily. These breeds typically need more frequent grooming.

✅ Bathing frequency: Every 3–4 weeks, combined with regular haircuts.

✅ Best shampoo: Conditioning or detangling shampoo.

4️⃣ Silky-Coated Dogs

Breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and Shih Tzus have fine, flowing hair similar to human hair. Dirt clings easily to their coat.

✅ Bathing frequency: Every 3–4 weeks to keep the coat clean and free of tangles.

✅ Best shampoo: Gentle, sulfate-free shampoo with conditioner.

5️⃣ Wire-Haired Breeds

Wire-haired dogs such as Terriers (e.g., Westies, Wire Fox Terriers) have coarse coats that are relatively dirt-resistant.

✅ Bathing frequency: Every 6–8 weeks, or as needed.

✅ Best shampoo: Texturizing shampoo to maintain that signature wire texture.

 

6️⃣ Hairless Breeds

Hairless breeds like Chinese Cresteds and Xoloitzcuintli still need regular baths to keep their skin healthy.

✅ Bathing frequency: Every 1–2 weeks to prevent oil buildup and clogged pores.

✅ Best shampoo: Hypoallergenic, gentle shampoo.

How Often to Bathe Dogs By Popular Breeds

Let’s take a look at some popular dog breeds and their ideal bathing frequency:

 

Breed	Coat Type	Recommended Bathing Frequency
Labrador Retriever	Double coat	Every 6–8 weeks
Golden Retriever	Double coat	Every 6–8 weeks
German Shepherd	Double coat	Every 6–10 weeks
French Bulldog	Short hair	Every 6–8 weeks
Beagle	Short hair	Every 6–8 weeks
Poodle	Curly coat	Every 3–4 weeks
Yorkshire Terrier	Silky coat	Every 3–4 weeks
Shih Tzu	Silky coat	Every 3–4 weeks
Basset Hound	Short, oily coat	Every 2–4 weeks
Siberian Husky	Double coat	Every 8–12 weeks
Boxer	Short coat	Every 6–8 weeks
Maltese	Silky coat	Every 3–4 weeks

 

How To Tell If Your Dog Needs a Bath

⭐ Smell: If your dog smells bad, it’s time for a bath.

⭐ Dirty fur: Visibly dirty or greasy fur needs cleaning.

⭐ Scratching: Could indicate dirt, allergens, or parasites.

⭐ Dandruff: Dry, flaky skin may benefit from a gentle bath.

Dog Bathing FAQs

❓ Can I bathe my dog too much?

Yes. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, leading to dry, irritated skin. Stick to a schedule based on your dog’s breed and lifestyle, and always use dog-friendly shampoo.

 

❓ How can I make bath time easier?

✅ Brush your dog before the bath to remove loose fur.

✅ Use lukewarm water (never hot).

✅ Give treats during and after the bath for positive reinforcement.

✅ Use a non-slip mat to prevent slipping.

❓ What about dogs with allergies or sensitive skin?

For dogs with sensitive skin, allergies, or skin infections, follow your vet’s recommendations. Many require medicated baths on a specific schedule using special shampoo.

 

❓ How about puppies? When can I start bathing them?

Puppies can usually have their first bath at 8 weeks old. Use a mild puppy shampoo and keep bath time short and positive.

Tips for Bathing Your Dog at Home

💧 Brush first — This removes tangles and loose fur.

💧 Use the right shampoo — Choose based on coat type and skin condition.

💧 Rinse thoroughly — Leftover shampoo residue can cause irritation.

💧 Dry well — Use towels and a blow dryer on the cool setting (if your dog tolerates it).

💧Deshed using specialized tools if necessary for your dog breed.

 

Final Thoughts: Bathing Frequency Should Be Tailored to Your Dog

The ideal dog bathing schedule depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, lifestyle, and skin health. By following the guidelines above, you’ll help your pup stay clean, comfortable, and healthy. Remember: When in doubt, consult your veterinarian or professional groomer for a personalized recommendation!

 

Bonus: Related Dog Hygiene Tips

• Brush your dog’s teeth 2–3 times per week to prevent dental disease.
• Trim your dog’s nails every 3–4 weeks to avoid overgrowth.
• Clean your dog’s ears every 2–4 weeks to prevent infections.