It's one of the questions we hear most at the grooming table: “Am I bathing my dog too much—or not enough?” The honest answer is that it depends on your dog. Coat type, activity level, skin health and the time of year all play a part.
A simple rule of thumb
For most healthy dogs, a bath every 4 to 8 weeks keeps the coat clean and the skin balanced. Wash too often and you can strip the natural oils that keep skin supple; wait too long and dirt, dander and odour build up.
- Short, smooth coats — every 6–8 weeks is usually plenty.
- Double or fluffy coats — every 4–6 weeks, with regular brushing in between.
- Active, outdoorsy dogs — more often during muddy season; rinse-only baths help between full washes.
Signs it's bath time
Trust your nose and your hands. A “doggy” smell, a greasy feel to the coat, visible dirt or flaky skin are all cues. If your dog has allergies or a skin condition, your vet may recommend a specific medicated schedule—always follow that first.
Whatever the interval, a good brush before every bath makes a world of difference. And if bathing at home feels like a wrestling match, that's exactly what we're here for.