What can I wash my Shih Tzu with if I don t have dog shampoo
What can you bathe a dog with if I dont have dog shampoo?
You know its important to keep your dog clean, but you may not always have dog shampoo on hand. Some owners prefer not to use dog shampoo for various reasons. They may object to the expense, or prefer to use natural ingredients.
What can you bathe a dog with if I dont have dog shampoo?
If you dont have dog shampoo, you still have options. If your pooch needs a bath, you arent required to head to the pet store. Instead, you can use some things you probably already have on hand.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
Many owners bathe their dogs too often. How often you bathe your dog will depend on their lifestyle, coat, and your personal preference.
Short-haired indoor dogs only need to be bathed once every 2 to 3 months. Dogs with medium or long hair should be bathed once every 4-6 weeks. A few short-haired breeds, including the Chinese Crested, actually need a weekly bath, but the average dog can get by with far less bathing.
If your dog begins smelling like a dog, you can give them a bath up to once a week. Owners who have dog allergies also benefit from giving their pooch a weekly bath.
When it comes to lifestyle, your dog needs a bath when they get dirty. If theyve rolled around in dirt at the dog park, or gotten muddy during a walk, they could use a bath.
However, you dont always have to give your dog a bath to clean them. You shouldnt bathe your dog more than once a week. It strips their natural oils, which can damage their skin and coat.
To keep them looking and smelling fresh between baths, you have a few options. Dog wipes and sprays are great for a quick clean. You can purchase these from your local pet store, or make your own.
A water bath is also an option. Its the shampoo used in dog bathing that dries the skin. You can bathe your dog with water only every day if you wish. This is a good option if they are particularly dirty a day or two after their last bath.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is an excellent cleanser. Simply mix baking soda with water until it forms a paste. You can then use it as you would shampoo. Its particularly effective at removing odors from your pooch, but it also helps remove excess oil and dirt.
Oatmeal Shampoo
Oatmeal shampoo is wonderful for dogs that have dry or sensitive skin.
Youll need:
- 1 cup uncooked oats
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 quart warm water
Grind the oatmeal with a coffee grinder or a food processor. It should be the consistency of flour. Mix the oatmeal with the baking soda and water in a large bowl.
Wet your dog, and then pour the mixture over their body. Work it into their fur. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then rinse.
This shampoo will help balance and moisturize your dogs skin. It also conditions their hair.
Castille Soap
Catille soap is a natural cleanser, and its very gentle. It will allow your dog to maintain the correct ph balance, which is essential for their skin health. Castille soap was originally made from olive oil. Today, it can be made from castor oil, hemp, or coconut oil in addition to olive oil.
Castille soap is safe for your dog and the environment. If you want to bathe your pooch outside, you can do so with castille soap.
Glycerin
Glycerin is actually a by product of the soap making process. It is clear, and its a fat derivative. Most glycerin today is made from vegetable oils, similar to Castile soap.
Glycerin is considered a good option for dogs, but it is more drying than Castile soap. If your dog has sensitive skin, castille soap is a better choice. Glycerin is less drying than human shampoos, and doesnt strip all your dogs natural oils.
Vinegar and Water
Vinegar and water can also make a make shift cleanser. Just mix one partvinegar two partswater in a spray bottle. Spray it on your dog and wipe with a clean cloth for a touch up between baths.This can also be used as a conditioning rinse after bathing your dog.
DIY Pet Wipes
You can create your own DIY pet wipes to use between baths. They will cleanse your dog quickly, without drying their skin.
Youll need:
- 3 Cups Water (distilled or bottled is best if your tap water is hard)
- 1 Tbsp Castille or Glycerin Soap
- 2 Tbsp Coconut Oil
- 2 Tbsp Hydrogen Peroxide
- 1 roll of paper towels, cut in half
- A round wipes container for storage
Mix the water, soap, coconut oil, and hydrogen peroxide in a large jar. Place the half roll of paper towels into the jar. Remove the roll from the paper towels. Remove the paper towels, placing them into the wipes container. Pull from the inside of the roll.
If you have napkins, you can also use them to create the wipes. Place the mixed solution in a bowl or square pan. Place the napkins into the solution. Remove the stack, and place them in a wipes container. For this method, youll need the square wipes container.
DIY Spray
You can use the above formula to create a cleansing spray as well. Simply add the mixture to a spray bottle. Spray on your pet, and wipe with a clean cloth or paper towel.
What human products can I use to wash my dog?
Its tempting to reach for your shampoo when you are out of dog shampoo. However, it turns out that you shouldnt use human products on a dog. Put simply, they are designed for humans, which makes them unsuitable for your dogs needs.
No Human Shampoo (Almost)
Generally speaking, you shouldnt use human shampoo on your dog. Your skin, and your dogs have very different ph levels. Both humans and dogs have an acid mantle. This mantle is made of acids, and it protects the top layer of skin.
Your skin is actually your largest organ. Its highly porous. This is why some medications are delivered through the skin. It is absorbed and enters the blood stream directly, instead of going through the stomach.
The acid mantle protects you from bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. Otherwise, these containments would be absorbed into your skin, and could make you sick. This mantle is very important for you and your dog.
Because the ph of the mantle is different in humans and dogs, shampoo designed for humans is not good for your pooch.
A humans ph ranges from5.2 to 6.2, while your dogs ranges from5.5 to 7.5. This may not seem like a huge difference, but it is enough to disrupt your pets acid mantle. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria and viruses.Most dog shampoos have a ph of 7, which is far more alkaline than human shampoo.
Baby Shampoo
Baby shampoo was once recommended by veterinarians, particularly for dogs with sensitive skin. However, things have changed as knowledge has grown. Dog shampoos have evolved significantly over the years, becoming much more gentle and balanced for your dogs skin.
Baby shampoo is ok for one time use. However, using it repeatedly can damage your dogs acid mantle, just as adult human shampoo can. Its best to avoid baby shampoo, or only use it once.
Wipes
You can purchase pet wipes for cleaning your dog between baths. Why not use baby wipes in a pinch? Baby wipes have the same issue as human shampoos. They are formulated for a humans ph.
Using them on your dog can disrupt the acid mantle. As mentioned previously, this can make your dog sick. Avoid any cleansing wipes designed for humans, no matter how gentle they claim to be. They may be gentle on human skin, but it doesnt make them appropriate for your pooch.
The good news is, you can make your own wipes following the recipe from the previous section.
What can you bathe a dog with to get rid of fleas?
No matter how meticulously you care for your dog, they can end up with fleas. Its best to prevent fleas with a preventative medicine. However, if your pooch gets fleas, you have a few options.
Dog Flea Shampoo
Dog flea shampoos are a great first line of defense. The flea-killing medication will remain active for 1 to 2 weeks after bathing. You may need to repeat the bath one week after the first, to maintain protection.
During this two-week period, be sure to clean your home to remove any fleas from your house.Consider a flea preventative to keep your dog from getting fleas once the flea medication wears off.
Homemade Shampoo
You can also make a homemade flea shampoo. This shampoo will only kill fleas while its on your pet. It will not keep killing them after the bath is finished. It can give your pet some temporary relief. When combined with a flea preventative, this may be all you need to rid your pooch of their little biters.
To make homemade flea shampoo, youll need:
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/4 cup ofdistilled white vinegar
- 1/2 cup castille soap
- Soap dispenser (old dish soap bottles work well)
Mix all the ingredients together in the bottle. Wet your dog, and then wash them with the shampoo. Allow it to sit for at least five minutes. Rinse, and dry your dog.
Can you bathe a dog with dawn?
No, you shouldnt use dawn dish detergent on your dog. It will kill fleas, and was once recommended as a dog shampoo substitute. However, recent research has shown that it is likely to dry or irritate your dogs sensitive skin.
The problem with Dawn is that it is designed to cut grease. Human hair gets oily, and needs the grease removed when washing. Dawn is drying, even to our hair, which is naturally oily.
Your dogs hair doesnt get oily the way ours does. They require baths to remove dirt, debris, and dead skin cells. Some oil from the skin gets on the fur, but it doesnt get nearly as oily as human hair. Dawn can easily dry out your dogs coat and skin, which can cause damage and skin problems.
What soap is safe for dogs?
Other than dog shampoo, castille soap is the safest for dogs. Its gentle, and contains no harsh detergents. Glycerin soap is another natural and gentle option. Avoid human bar soaps, as well as human shampoos.
How Often Should You Bathe a Shih Tzu?
If youve had a Shih Tzu even for a short time, you know that grooming is an important part of being a good pet parent. Shih Tzus are grooming intensive, but how often should you bathe a Shih Tzu? Can you give them a bath too often? Lets find out.
How Often Should You Bathe a Shih Tzu?
In general, you should bathe your Shih Tzu once every three weeks.
This will help keep their hair healthy and their skin in good shape.
Shih Tzus are prone to sensitive skin and skin conditions, so you dont want to go too long without a bath.
On the other hand, you dont want to bathe them too often.
If you do, you will eliminate their natural body oils which will lead to dry skin.
I take my two Shih Tzus to the groomer and she suggests bringing them once every 8 weeks.
That means they would need to be washed once in between at home.
They would be getting a bath every 4 weeks which is fine as well.
Of course, if your pouch has found a mud puddle and rolled around in it, you may have to throw in an extra bath and thats okay.
In between bath times you can always use a dry powder pet shampoo to freshen them up a bit.
What Kind of Shampoo is Best for Shih Tzus?
There are plenty of dog shampoos out there and they range from pretty cheap to pretty expensive.
Youll want to go with one in the middle to higher price range.
You can find one here, here, and here.
If your Shih Tzu has sensitive skin or other skin issues, youll want to get a shampoo that is less abrasive or even hypoallergenic.
Above all, be sure that the shampoo is tear-less.
You dont want your Shih Tzus eyes irritated while they are being washed.
Also, dont use human shampoo on your dog. It could lead to irritated skin.
Should You Use Conditioner on Your Shih Tzu?
Yes, you can use conditioner on your Shih Tzu.
It will help stop hair breakage and even help with sensitive skin.
It is especially good for Shih Tzus with long hair as it will decrease tangles.
Of course, you only want to use a conditioner that is made for dogs.
Dont share yours with your Shih Tzu.
You might also want to look for a leave-in conditioner.
It could help keep the skin healthy.
When in doubt, ask your vet what they would recommend.
I know my Shih Tzu, Truman has always had skin issues.
He has a problem with yeast build-up and while you cant see it, you can smell it.
It smells kind of like cheese popcorn.
I have found the right shampoo and the conditioner has helped give him healthier skin.
If youre worried about any skin condition your Shih Tzu has, it is a good idea to have him checked over by your vet.
Where Should I Bathe My Shih Tzu?
The nice thing about Shih Tzus is that their small size makes them easy to bathe.
Most can be washed in your kitchen sink.
If you have a larger Shih Tzu you might want to try the tub, but for the average Shih Tzu, the sink works just fine.
Thats what I have done for both of my Shih Tzus their entire life.
They both weigh about 10 pounds.
You dont want to wash your Shih Tzu outside with a hose as some people do larger dogs.
They wont like the cold water and it will give them chills.
Can You Use Baby Shampoo on Your Shih Tzu?
No, this isnt a good idea.
Even though baby shampoos are made to be gentle, they are still just for humans.
Human shampoo has pHs in it.
This is added to make human hair look fuller.
The pHs can irritate your Shih Tzus skin and cause itchy skin.
So, just stick to a high-quality shampoo that is made for dogs and your pup will be much better off.
Should You Groom Your Shih Tzu or Take it to a Professional?
I do take both of my Shih Tzus to the groomer about every eight weeks.
She bathes them and trims their nails and removes hair in their ear canal and trims their hair.
This is all part of regular grooming that I feel a professional is better suited to perform.
At least thats true for me.
The last time I tried to trim Trumans hair it was a mess.
You can do all of this at home, and you might be a lot better at it than me, but if not, a professional is a good option.
Even if you go this route, that doesnt mean you cant give your Shih Tzus regular baths in between grooming appointments.
Its really up to you if you want to take your Shih Tzu to a professional groomer and there is no one or right answer.
How to Bathe Your Shih Tzu
If youre going to give your Shih Tzu a bath, there are a few things you need to do first before the bathing process can begin.
Make sure your sink or tub is clean.
If there isnt a rubber mat in the bottom of your sink place a washcloth or a mat in the sink to keep your Shih Tzu from slipping around while they are being washed.
Water temperature is going to be important.
You dont want hot water and you dont want the water too cold.
Lukewarm water is the best.
Just run the water over your wrist.
If it feels warm but not hot then it should be good.
Youll also want everything you need to give your Shih Tzu a bath at the ready.
You dont want to leave your dog unattended.
They might jump out of the sink and hurt themselves.
Youll want the following next to the sink before you get started:
- A towel
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- A double-sided stainless steel comb or some other type of comb
- A washcloth
- Start by combing your Shih Tzu.
- Get out any tangles and cut out any mats before you get them wet.
- Fill the sink a quarter of the way up with lukewarm water.
- Use a cup or the nozzle to get them wet all over.
- Try not to get water into their ears as they can get an ear infection.
- Use plenty of shampoo and get a good lather over all of their body but not their face.
- Use a wet washcloth to wash their face.
- After they are completely washed, rinse all of their shampoo off, make sure you get it all off.
- Use a good amount of conditioner and rub it into their hair well. Leave on for 5 minutes.
- Remove most of the conditioner. It is fine to leave a small amount on your Shih Tzu.
- Transfer your Shih Tzu to a towel. Pat them dry a bit but dont rub.
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How to Dry Your Shih Tzu After a Bath
Now that youve washed your dog, youll need to dry them.
Youve got a couple of options here.
The first is to air dry.
Using the towel you have wrapped around your Shih Tzu pat off the excess water.
Dont rub. Just pat.
Then let your Shih Tzu go.
They will shake quite a bit and might even want to rub on the floor.
This is normal.
Keep in mind, if it is really cold out and chilly in your home, you might not want to go this route.
I know for me living in Illinois, the winter months get really cold.
Even inside the house, it can be chilly.
If thats the case for you, at least in the winter you might want to blow dry your Shih Tzu which is the second option.
If you go with air drying be sure your Shih Tzu is completely dry before it goes outside.
With blow drying, you will want to use a leave-in spray conditioner.
Spray sections of your dogs hair and then comb.
After you have completed this process for all sections, you can use your standard hair dryer to finish.
Keep the temperature set on warm and not hot.
Continue blowing until the hair as you run your fingers through it.
The hair doesnt have to be completely dry, but it should be dry enough that it isnt clumped together.
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To Sum it All Up:
Bathing your Shih Tzu every three to four weeks is best. If youre taking your Shih Tzu to a groomer every 8 to 12 weeks, youll need to bathe them either once or twice in between. Since they are small dogs, they are easy to wash. With regular bathing, they should smell good and their skin will be in good shape.
Please Note:
This article is informational only and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always check with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your Shih Tzu. This article should not be considered in any way as a veterinarian or advice.
