The ultimate guide on how often you should wash your dog – by breed, coat type and season
, by Michael van Wassem, 4 min reading time
Why the right washing frequency matters
Washing your dog may seem simple, but every dog has a different skin type, coat structure and level of sensitivity. Washing too often can damage the natural oils in the skin, while washing too rarely can lead to itching, bad odours or skin problems. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover exactly how often your dog should be bathed, tailored to breed, coat type and season.
Washing frequency per coat type
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Short coats: every 6–12 weeks
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Medium-length coats: every 4–8 weeks
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Long coats: every 4–6 weeks
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Doodle and curly coats: every 3–6 weeks (with regular brushing)
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Double coats (such as Husky): only 2–4 times per year, mainly during shedding season
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Hairless breeds: once a week to once every two weeks (sensitive skin)
How often to wash your dog per breed
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Labrador Retriever: every 6–8 weeks; oily coat, loves swimming
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Golden Retriever: every 6 weeks; long coat, prone to matting
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French Bulldog: every 4–8 weeks; skin folds must be cleaned thoroughly
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Husky: a few times a year; self-cleaning double coat
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Short-haired Chihuahua: every 8–12 weeks
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Doodle breeds: every 3–6 weeks; curly coat traps dirt quickly
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Shih Tzu / Lhasa Apso: every 3–4 weeks; long, silky coat
(Would you like us to extend this list with more popular breeds? Just let us know.)
How the seasons affect washing needs
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Spring: during the spring moult, a gentle bath can help remove loose hair
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Summer: dogs that swim a lot or develop a stronger smell from the heat may need washing more often
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Autumn: wet walks can cause that “doggy smell” more quickly, so an extra bath can help
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Winter: wash less often to avoid drying out the skin due to cold air and indoor heating
How to tell when your dog needs a bath
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Strong smell despite good basic care
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Greasy coat or visible flakes
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Itching or frequent scratching
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Coat feels rough or mats more quickly
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Skin folds look red or irritated
The benefits of regular washing
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Healthy, clean and shiny coat
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Less itching, flaking and skin irritation
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Fewer loose hairs in the house
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Better smell and hygiene
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More chances to spot skin problems at an early stage
Possible downsides of washing too often
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Drying out the skin
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Loss of natural oils
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Itching or irritation
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Higher risk of allergic reactions when using the wrong shampoo
How to wash a dog the right way
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Always use dog shampoo (never human products)
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Wet the coat thoroughly, right down to the skin
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Massage the shampoo in gently, especially under the armpits, on the belly and around the tail
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Rinse thoroughly – leftover shampoo causes itching
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Use conditioner on long or sensitive coats
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Dry well, preferably with a towel or a dog dryer/blaster
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Brush after drying for a perfect finish
Frequently asked questions about washing dogs
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Can you blow-dry a dog?
Yes, as long as you use a low heat setting and don’t hold it too close to the skin. -
Is it harmful to wash too rarely?
Often yes: built-up oils, dirt and bacteria can lead to skin problems. -
What about puppies?
From around 10–12 weeks of age, they can be washed gently with puppy shampoo. -
Can you wash a dog that has skin problems?
Yes, but only with a special medicated shampoo and on the advice of a vet.
When does a dog need extra care?
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With allergies or sensitive skin
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When they swim a lot (chlorine, salt water)
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City or “muddy” dogs that get dirty more often
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Breeds with skin folds or high sebum production
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Older dogs that no longer groom themselves as well
The importance of a good routine for each dog
Every dog is unique. Two Labradors can react completely differently to being washed. That’s why you should always pay attention to your dog’s skin, smell, coat structure and behaviour. This way you can build a care routine that suits your four-legged friend perfectly.
About Fidello – why quality matters so much to us
At Fidello, we understand that every dog is different. That’s why we carefully select grooming products that match different skin types, coat structures and sensitivities. From nourishing shampoos to gentle conditioners, we choose brands that use safe, mild formulas that support a healthy coat and a lovely scent. Our mission is simple: your dog deserves the very best – and you should be able to choose with confidence and peace of mind. Check everything you need here to wash your dog.
