You are in emergency to wash your lovely dog and unfortunately you are out of you regular dog shampoo? You have only your Dove body wash now. If that is the case, you might wonder ‘is Dove body wash safe for dogs?
Dove body wash is not safe for dogs at all. That’s because it contains harsh chemicals and sticky moisturizers intended for human skin.
If applied on dogs, Dove body wash will be hard to rinse. Moreover, the oils of Dove will remove the oils in the dog coat, following by skin irritations and infection.
However, some dog owners may think that using Dove products occasionally is not a big deal. It is slightly true. You can provide your dog a single bath with Dove soap, shampoo, or body wash in emergencies.
Like Dove, other human-intended products require intense consideration before applying them on dogs. Read on this article highlighting the side effects of human products on dogs.
Can I Use Body Wash On My Dog?
It depends on what kind of body wash you are going to use. If it is human-intended, the answer is no, and if for dogs, then it is yes.
Any kind of soap manufactured for human skin strips away the natural oil and irritates the dog skin. So, if you want to know whether you should use human body wash to dogs, the answer will be a big NO!
But when your fur-baby is super dirty and no dog shampoo is available, this caution may get out of your head. You may use what is around, including your body wash.
Organic human body wash or body shower gel is safe for dogs in a pinch. It means the shower gel should be of the most natural ingredients and the least chemicals.
The best thing to use is an organic dog body wash. It undoubtedly is free of harsh chemicals, keeping the dog skin in mind. Eventually, the application of it is quite easy too.
A good dog body wash gently washes away impurities, controls shedding, scents freshly, and restores the natural shine.
Therefore, when it comes to using body wash on your dog, use a dog-intended one. If you don’t have any, use your body wash for a single bath, but make sure it is organic.
Can You Use Human Shampoo On Dogs?
Before knowing the answer to this question, let’s have a knowledge on the science behind human and dog skins.
One thing is common between these two types of skin, and that is the acid mantle. The acid mantle protects the skin from various contaminants, hydrates it by absorbing water, and reduces evaporation.
However, human skin and dog skin largely vary in their pH level. According to dog experts, the pH balance of dogs ranges between 6.2 to 7.4. In contrast, the pH balance of humans is 5.5 to 5.6 on average.
Different pH levels indicate different skin types. Any skin with a pH value below 7 is acidic, over 7 is alkaline or basic, and 7 is neutral. So human skin is acidic and dog skin is basic.
Now straight to the point – can dogs be washed with human shampoo or not. The answer is, definitely not, but why?
Human shampoo, with an acidic pH value and harsher chemicals, wash away the grease from the human scalp and hair.
Along with grease and dandruff, it scrubs away the acid mantle too. And the included moisturizers of human shampoo compensate the scalp until the acid mantle renews itself.
Along with the acid mantle, dogs have a thin layer of natural oil under their fur. Hence, human shampoos not only rip off these components but also make their skin extremely dry and itchy.
Itchiness leads to repeated scratching, abrasions, constant licking, and disrupted acid mantle. As a consequence, bacteria easily invade dog skin and make dogs suffer from various diseases.
This is why you should use only dog shampoo to bathe your furry-pal. With an alkaline pH value and milder ingredients, dog shampoo will keep your pooch clean and healthy. Also, it won’t destroy the acid mantle.
Can You Use Human Baby Shampoo On Dogs?
While adult human shampoos have the ability to rupture the dog skin, whereas human baby shampoos do exactly the opposite. Baby shampoo is mild in nature and good for sensitive skin, of human’s or dog’s.
What makes baby shampoo safer than adult shampoo for dogs? Know from the comparison table below.
One thing that you must know, though baby shampoo is gentler than adult shampoo, it is still made for human skin. Obviously, the pH value of baby shampoo is acidic, not basic.
Therefore, use human baby shampoo on your dog only in emergencies (once or twice maximum). Regular or continuous use of it won’t show any different outcome than human shampoo.
You must rinse off the baby shampoo thoroughly. Otherwise, the traces of the shampoo will discomfort the dog skin.
What Human Shampoo Is Safe For Dogs?
Some human shampoos can work on dogs in the most desperate times. These are-
Head and Shoulders
The antifungal properties of it help to fight the dandruff and nasty infection on dogs.
Dove
Though the products of Dove are especially tailored for human skin, they are arguably safer for dog skin. Dove manufacturers claim that they only use natural ingredients.
Baby shampoo
As you have learned from the previous section, baby shampoo won’t cause skin issues for your dog immediately.
Mild human shampoo
Some human shampoos contain less harsh chemicals and fewer artificial colors and fragrances. Mild shampoos are also good for a one-off use.
How Do I Keep My Dog Clean And Smelling?
Brush The Fur
Dirt, debris, allergens, bacteria, and parasites easily trap in a dog’s coat. As a result, these unwelcoming substances end up creating foul odor and skin issues to your dog.
Brushing the fur is one of the most important parts of dog hygiene. It only takes 5-10 minutes, but gives you many things in return.
It removes harmful substances, removes dead and loose fur, controls shedding, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat clean. Alongside these, brushing lets you build up an emotional bond with your dog.
Brush your dog two to five times a week, not more than that. Trim the hair regularly if your dog is a long-haired breed. Otherwise, dirt will get trapped forever and brushing won’t help.
Brush The Teeth
Does your dog smell badly only on the exterior? Not at all. Chances are that your dog stinks highly due to bad breath.
Dogs need dental care like humans. Plaque buildup and gum diseases can make losing their teeth at a young age if left untreated.
This is why you should pay attention to your pooch’s oral care. Brush his teeth once daily, after dinner is the right time for that.
Buying dental dog treats is also a good idea. Each time your pooch chews a dental bone, it will clean the plaque between their teeth.
Drinking-water additives is another powerful tool to fight plaque and cure stinky breath.
Feed A Nutritious Meal
Gastrointestinal issues result in flatulence and body odor to your dog. Imbalanced diet causes and worsens this situation. The only solution is, feed your furry-friend a proper, high quality, and nutritious meal.
Only dog food is adequate, probiotics also can contribute to smelling. It enhances digestive system and nutrient absorption. Before investing in dog food, ask your vet and follow his recommendations.
Wisely Use Shampoos
Dogs love unlimited rolling, jumping, running, and playing. To keep your fur-baby smelling fresh, follow 2 steps – wash him regularly and use a good dog shampoo.
Dog experts recommend bathing every 3 months. However, if your dog is super active, you should bathe him once in a month.
A good shampoo smells pleasingly as well as protects the dog from all kinds of skin diseases. Hence, avoid adult shampoos and soaps, rather use the baby-oriented counterparts for emergencies. Certain breeds may need specific shampoos.
Bathing dogs is a time-consuming process. You need to get home for that if you are outside with your dog. Till then, he would be smelly and feel uncomfortable.
To make things easier, use no-rinse foamy dry shampoos for a quick dry bath. They don’t require water but can refresh your dog’s coat.
When your pooch gets dirty in the middle of a walk, apply a dry shampoo. Baking soda or cornstarch can be a good substitute to the store-bought dry shampoo.
Pat either one powder on his fur to reduce the bad odor. Wait for a while and brush the powder off. Avoid adding water to the powder.
Wash The Dog Bed
Brushing, feeding, bathing – all are done. Still the furry-baby stinks? Well, you must have forgotten to wash his bed and snuggly items.
Each time your dog gets out of and gets in the bed, bacteria nest here. Eventually, they spread on to your dog and contribute to foul smell.
Prevent dust, loose fur, germs from nesting in the dog bed by washing it regularly. Also, don’t forget to wash the soft, snuggly items your dog likes.
When buying a dog bed, make sure it is easily washable on a regular basis. This way, you will be able to keep both your dog and house safe from unwanted odors.
The bed is a little dirty but does not need a wash – deodorize it! Combine 1 tbsp witch hazel, 3 tbsp distilled water, and 5 drops of lavender essential oil. And spray this mixture on the dog bed and snuggly items.
Homemade Dog Shampoo Recipes
Homemade dog shampoos will save your brain from the tension of choosing safe dog shampoo alternatives. Follow these recipes and use them accordingly.
With Dish Soap And White Vinegar
- Warm water – 2 cups
- Mild dish soap – ¼ cup
- White vinegar – ½ cup
- Mix all these ingredients and fill a spray bottle with it.
- Use warm water to wet your dog’s coat.
- Spray and rub the shampoo into his coat (avoiding his eyes).
- Rinse as many times as possible and dry him off.
With Aloe Vera And Glycerin (For Dry Skin)
- Water – 1 quart
- Baby shampoo – 1 cup (non-toxic dish soap can be used instead)
- White/apple cider vinegar – 1 cup
- Glycerin – ⅓ cup
- Aloe Vera gel – 2 tbsp.
- Combine the ingredients, put the mixture in a spray bottle, and shake well.
- Apply it into your dog’s coat, make sure it does not get into his eyes.
- Finally, rinse.
With Oatmeal And Baking Soda (For Dry Skin)
- Warm water – 1 quart
- Raw oatmeal – 1 cup
- Baking soda – ½ cup
- Grind the oatmeal until it has a flour-like consistency.
- Mix all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Wet your pooch using warm water.
- Rub the shampoo into his coat and let it sit for a few minutes (if he allows).
- Rinse him thoroughly and dry him off.
With Essential Oils And Aloe Vera (For Fleas)
- Warm water – 10 ounces
- Lavender essential oil – 2 drops
- Aloe Vera gel – 2 ounces
- Castile soap – 1 tbsp.
- Add all ingredients together, pour the mixture in a spray bottle, and shake well.
- Use warm water to wet your dog.
- Spray and rub the shampoo into his coat and the areas harder to reach. Be careful about his eyes.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry your pooch.
FAQ
No Dog Shampoo What Can I Use?
You can use baby shampoo, homemade shampoo, castile soap, baking soda, or cornstarch. Even baby wipes can be a good alternative to dog shampoo. It will freshen up your a-little-dirty dog.
What Can I Use To Wash My Dog If I Have No Dog Shampoo?
Use Dawn dish soap mixed with vinegar and water as a DIY dog shampoo. Another option is Johnson and Johnson’s. Since it is made for babies, it will be less harsh on your dog’s skin. Castile bar soap can be helpful to clean your dog in a pinch. It contains coconut oil and other natural ingredients.
How Do I Keep My House Dog Smell Free?
Vacuum, sweep, and mop your house regularly to remove fur and dirt. Wash furniture covers, everyday fabrics (like curtains, carpets, linens, duvets, towels, etc.), clothes, and dog bed regularly. Wipe leather furniture too. Open all windows to let the air flow inside and drive away bad odor outside. Use an air purifier and air freshener.
Is Dove Soap Poisonous?
Dove soap is minimally poisonous if your dog ingests it in small amounts. It won’t kill your dog right away but will leave curable gastrointestinal issues. Ingesting large chunks of Dove will cause death to your dog.
How Do I Keep My Dog Clean Everyday?
Wash their bed regularly to prevent bad odor and harmful bacteria from spreading. Make sure you brush their teeth and body everyday. Give your dog a good and nutritious meal, it will cleanse your dog’s digestive system. Use pet wipes each time your pooch gets his paws and feet’s dirty. Last but not the least, use the right dog shampoo.
Verdict
Finally, the discussion on the topic ‘Is Dove body wash safe for dogs’ ends here.
Keeping a dog healthy is not an easy task. A slight oversight can endanger your dog’s health since he cannot speak human language.
When it comes to taking care of the dog skin, you need to be careful. Since bathing dogs becomes hard without the right kind of shampoo, you may think ‘Can I wash my dog with just water’.
Well, water cannot guarantee proper cleanliness from top to bottom. You must check well before you use any dog shampoo substitute. Otherwise, your fur-baby will be allergic to the shampoo alternative.
Also read – Can You Use Shampoo As Bubble Bath?