Taking the dog to the
groomer can be expensive and
grooming your dog at home can be a time-consuming ordeal. However,ย your dog will be happier and healthier with regular baths and brushings, and your house will smell better, too! But life happens, and sometimes you have to put off your dogโs bath for a week or two. So how can you clean your dog and keep them smelling fresh between baths?
Brush, Even if You Canโt Bathe
Depending on what kind of dog you have,
brushing is usually a lot less time-consuming than bathing, especially if you keep up with it regularly. Dogs with thick or curly hair (like
Poodles) may need to be brushed more often to avoid mats and tangles, but itโs worth it. Brushing removes dirt and debris that can contribute to a foul stench.
RELATED STORY: What Are Some Low Maintenance Dogs?Doggy Wipes
Doggy wipesย work to freshen your dog up between baths. They are gentle, non-toxic, moisturizing, and usually smell lovely (just like the ones for babies!) Use doggy wipes to clean your pupโs paws and paw pads, their rear end, and even their entire body.
Dry Shampoo
If you want to clean, deodorize, and refresh your dogโs coat between baths, try a
dry shampoo. Dry shampoos are very easy to use; they are powder formulas that can either be sprinkled or sprayed onto your dog, rubbed in, then brushed through. They instantly absorb excess oil and grease, break down dirt and grime, and leave your dogโs coat looking soft and shiny and smelling great.
Dog Perfume or Cologne
Dog
perfumes are a popular choice for stylish pups or pups who arenโt smelling so swell between baths. They are designed to be light, aromatic, long-lasting, and safe. Some companies even make perfumes that
mimic popular men's and women's designer scents. If your dog seems even the slightest bit irritated by the perfumeโs smell, discontinue use, and
never use human perfumes or colognes on a dog.
RELATED STORY: My Dogโs Breath Smells! What Should I Do?Clean Your Dogโs Bed!
If you do everything you can to keep your dog clean between baths, it will all go out the window if their
bed is still dirty and smelly. Wash your dogโs bed and blankets regularly to remove dirt and body oils. If you have the option, choose a bed that allows you to wash both the cover and the cushioning. Your dog will thank you by curling up for a sweet-smelling slumber.
How do you keep your dog clean between baths? Leave a comment and let us know, and sign up for PetPlus, a benefit program for pet owners that provides member-only access to medications at wholesale prices, plus discounts on food, supplies, vet visits, boarding, and more.