Giving your dog a bath is pretty straightforward—fill the tub, grab the shampoo, scrub-a-dub. But ask a roomful of dog owners how often they do it, and you’ll probably get a bunch of different answers. Once a week? Once a month? Only when they get dirty?
The truth is, how often to wash your dog depends on a few important factors—including their health, breed, activity level, and even whether they have allergies. Here, veterinarian Dr. Sarah Cortright helps get to the bottom of how often you should give your dog a bath, and her advice goes way beyond "just when they smell." Here's what to know before you fill the tub!
How often should I wash my dog?
According to Dr. Cortright, most dogs should get a bath every 4 to 6 weeks—but it really depends on the dog. How often they get dirty, whether they have allergies, and their skin type all matter.
Bathing helps keep your dog clean, but too much of it can strip away natural oils that protect their skin and keep it moisturized. Not bathing enough can lead to odor, buildup, or even skin problems. It’s all about finding the right balance.
Some dogs, especially those with allergies to things like pollen or dust, may actually need baths more often. “It helps remove allergens from the coat and skin,” says Dr. Cortright. But if your dog has dry or sensitive skin, it’s better to bathe them less often to avoid irritation.
Does my dog’s breed and/or health affect how often they need a bath?
Definitely. Some breeds, like Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels, have oily coats that can get greasy or start to smell if they aren't bathed regularly. “These dogs produce more oil,” says Dr. Cortright, “so they may need a bath every couple of weeks.”
Meanwhile, dogs with thick or double coats—like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, or Bernese Mountain Dogs—don’t need baths as often, but they do need regular brushing to keep their coats healthy. And hairless breeds, such as the Chinese Crested or Xoloitzcuintli, usually need more frequent baths since they don’t have fur to help manage skin oils.
If your dog has a skin condition, they might need to be bathed more often using a medicated shampoo. “In these cases, bathing is part of the treatment,” says Dr. Cortright. It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions when it comes to how often and how to use those products.
Can I bathe my dog too often?
Yes—bathing your dog too often can do more harm than good. “Overbathing can compromise the skin’s natural microbiome,” says Dr. Cortright, which can lead to dryness, itching, and even infections. Harsh shampoos or frequent washing strip away protective oils, making your dog’s skin more vulnerable to irritants.
Unless your vet recommends otherwise, most dogs shouldn’t be bathed more than once every 2 to 4 weeks. Signs it’s time for a bath include odor, dirt buildup, a greasy coat, or frequent scratching. Just be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo that matches your pup’s skin and coat needs.
The takeaway
Bathing your dog is less about following a strict schedule and more about paying attention to their skin, coat, and overall health. Some dogs need regular baths to stay clean and comfortable, while others do just fine with the occasional rinse. When in doubt, talk to your vet—and don’t forget to reward your dog with a treat or belly rub afterward. They may not love bath day, but they’ll love how they feel afterward.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
