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There’s nothing worse than coming home with a severely mucky pup after a long walk out. Whether your dog has rolled in something that’s left it with an unsavoury odour or treated itself to a mud spa and facial, you’ll inevitably want to give him an emergency bath once you get home.
If your dog usually goes to the groomer and you’re faced with the tricky situation of an emergency bath, using human shampoo is always tempting. But just how safe is it to do so?
At Groomers, we’ve rounded up all the pros and cons so you can make the right decisions to keep your furry friend safe during doggy bath time.
Table of contents:
Can you wash a dog with human shampoo?
What is the best shampoo for dogs?
What can I use as a substitute for dog shampoo?
Can I use baby shampoo on my dog?
Can I use human shampoo on my dog?: The Highlights
Can you wash a dog with human shampoo?
There is much debate within the pet community about whether human shampoo should be used on dogs. Even though human shampoo will clean your dog, this doesn’t necessarily make it a safe option. Although your dog’s fur may appear soft and shiny, its skin could suffer.
The pH balance, the acid mantle and a dog’s skin
The top layer of skin, the stratum corneum, is protected by a thin layer known as the acid mantle. This layer prevents the skin from contracting viruses, bacteria, and contaminants. The acid mantle also hydrates the body by absorbing water and reducing evaporation.
Bathing and washing strip the skin of its acid mantle, so most shampoos and soaps contain ingredients that moisturise and protect the skin until it renews. A proper balance between acidity and alkalinity, known as the pH balance, must be maintained for the acid mantle to work efficiently.
Dogs and humans have very differing pH balances. Humans' normal skin balance on the pH scale is 5.5 to 5.6, which is more acidic, whereas dogs' balance is 6.2 to 7.4, which is more neutral.
As human shampoo is tailored to a more acidic mantle, using it on dogs can disrupt theirs, leaving their skin dry and flaky and, more seriously, vulnerable to parasites, bacteria, and viruses. The irritation can also encourage scratching, leading to abrasions, wounds forming, and an increased chance of bacteria taking hold.
So, whilst it might seem like a good idea to use human shampoo on your dog, it can be very damaging to their skin.
What is the best shampoo for dogs?
It should go without saying, but dog shampoo should always be your first choice when bathing your dog. You want what's best for your dog, so treat it to a shampoo specifically made for it.
Dog shampoos are specially designed for dogs' coats and skin. With a vast array of options available to suit breed and coat type, whether your dog needs detangling or a medicated dog shampoo, you'll find a perfect pick for your pup. Plus, dog shampoos are designed to lather more easily than human shampoo, meaning you'd need less dog shampoo for a similar wash!
What can I use as a substitute for dog shampoo?
If an emergency bath is essential, you're out of pet shampoo, and clean, warm water isn't working, you can use regular human shampoo as a very last resort.
Look out for pH levels and try to choose a shampoo with a neutral pH range as close to 7 as possible. Human shampoos won't harm your dog as a one-off but are definitely not recommended as a long-term bathing solution.
Avoid human shampoos with added fragrance or colour, as these will be particularly harsh on your pet's skin.
Can I use baby shampoo on my dog?
Baby shampoo is generally a better option than regular shampoo as it is clear, odourless and gentle.
If your dog has particularly sensitive skin, baby shampoo can be a good choice to combat this, as it contains milder ingredients than regular shampoos. Most baby shampoos are water-based and only contain glycerin for smoothness, potassium acrylates copolymer as a thickening agent and sodium trideceth sulfate as a mild, low-irritation cleansing agent.
Baby shampoo is a safe, one-off substitute for dog shampoo, but overall, it's best to make a conscious effort to have your dog's shampoo stocked up at all times.
Can I spray my dog with vinegar and water?
Many online home remedies offer alternative solutions when you're out of dog shampoo. However, we suggest you consult your vet or dog groomer before using anything unusual on your dog's skin to avoid upsetting its pH levels or, worse, causing a lasting injury.
Can I use human shampoo on my dog?: The Highlights
Now that we've reviewed all the facts, it's clear that while using human shampoo on your dog as a one-off is technically safe in that it won't cause instant harm, it shouldn't be a long-term solution.
Human shampoo will upset the pH balance of your dog's coat, dry out its skin, and lead to skin problems, so why put your four-legged friend at risk? Avoid any suggested home remedies you're unsure of, and if in doubt, always consult a vet before putting anything new onto your dog's coat and skin.
Protect your dog’s pH balance by shopping for dog-friendly shampoo at Groomers
The best way to avoid using human shampoo on your dog is to keep your dog shampoo collection stocked up for emergencies! Find the perfect option for your dog by exploring the full range of dog shampoo and conditioner at Groomers. With options to suit oily coats, knotted coats and even specialised shampoos for anxious dogs, you will surely discover your new bath-time go-to from our extensive range. Then, why not follow up with a styling spray so you can easily brush and style your dog's coat?
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