How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog? Breed-By-Breed Guide (Part 21)
The Scoop on Bathtime: A Breed-by-Breed Guide to Finding the Right Balance
As a dog owner, there’s nothing quite like the joy of showering your furry friend with love and attention after a long day. However, not all breeds require the same level of bathing frequency. While some may need regular dips in the tub to keep them clean and fresh, others can thrive on dry shampoos or even skip baths altogether.
In this article, we’ll explore how often to bathe your dog by breed, along with specific product recommendations and actionable tips for getting your pup looking and feeling their best.
1. Small Breeds (under 20 pounds)
* Frequency: Every 2-3 months
* Recommended products:
+ Dog shampoos like Oatmeal Dog Shampoo or Hydrocortisone Dog Shampoo
+ Dry shampoos for those hard-to-reach areas
* Tips:
+ Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove loose hair and distribute shampoo evenly.
+ Focus on the face, ears, and paws for particularly dirty areas.
2. Medium Breeds (21-50 pounds)
* Frequency: Every 1-3 months
* Recommended products:
+ Dog shampoos like Earthbath All-Natural Shampoo or Green Taffy Conditioner
+ A gentle, pH-balanced shampoo for everyday use
* Tips:
+ Use a pumice stone to exfoliate the coat and remove dead skin cells.
+ Bathe on a Thursday (or whenever you need a mid-week detox) for added relaxation.
3. Large Breeds (51-90 pounds)
* Frequency: Every 2-4 months
* Recommended products:
+ Dog shampoos like Cetaphil Gentle Skin Shampoo or Dove Men+Care Sensitive Skin Shampoo
+ A hydrating conditioner to keep the coat moisturized and healthy
* Tips:
+ Use a detangling spray before brushing to prevent knots.
+ Bathe on a Sunday (or whenever you need a mid-week recharge).
4. Giant Breeds (over 90 pounds)
* Frequency: Every 1-2 months
* Recommended products:
+ Dog shampoos like Earthbath All-Natural Shampoo or Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
+ A powerful, medicated shampoo for special needs dogs
Written by: Dr. Sarah Mitchell, Small Animal Veterinarian
Last Updated: May 2026
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Related: How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog? Breed-By-Breed Guide (Part 39)
Related: How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog? Breed-By-Breed Guide (Part 38)
Related: How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog? Breed-By-Breed Guide (Part 39)
Related: How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Dog? Breed-By-Breed Guide (Part 38)