Can a dog be bathed frequently in the tropics?
In general a dog should be bathed as little as possible. The natural oil of a dog’s coat and skin is lost during bathing. The fat and fur account for the coat’s excellent protective quality against cold and rain.
Excessive baths may also lead to a dry skin and poor sheen of the coat. As a rule, a bath should not be given more than once a month, unless it is for specific purposes, such as treatment of skin parasites, and the like. Puppies should not be bathed until they are at least 12 weeks old, and have had their first immunization.
Special precautions:
1. Choose a clear sunny windless day for a bath as far as possible.
2. Medicated or other special shampoos are not needed for healthy dogs. Use either a mild soap or a baby shampoo or a reliable dog shampoo. Baby shampoos are mild and do not irritate the skin but are somewhat expensive. Use reasonably warm water for a bath. Rinse off the shampoo or soap effectively from the coat.
3. Thorough drying of the dog after a bath is important. Use a towel and avoid draughts, especially when the dog is drying off.
4. Bathe your dog only when he is dirty and not because it is Sunday.
5. Try to avoid soap suds going near his eyes and take care to keep water out of his ears.
6. Bitches should be given a bath after their heat period.