Taking the dog to the groomer can be expensive and grooming your dog at home can be a time-consuming ordeal. However, your dog will be happier and healthier with regular baths and brushings, and your house will smell better, too!
But life happens, and sometimes you have to put off your dog’s bath for a week or two.
So how can you clean your dog between baths and keep them smelling fresh? Below are 5 quick tips.
1. Brush, Even if You Can’t Bathe
Depending on what kind of dog you have, brushing is usually a lot less time-consuming than bathing, especially if you keep up with it regularly. Dogs with thick or curly hair (like Poodles) may need to be brushed more often to avoid mats and tangles, but it’s worth it. Brushing removes dirt and debris that can contribute to a foul stench.
READ MORE: A Groomer’s Tips to the Best Brushes for Large Dogs
2. Doggy Wipes
Doggy wipes work to freshen your dog up between baths. They are gentle, non-toxic, moisturizing, and usually, smell lovely (just like the ones for babies!) Use doggy wipes to clean your pup’s paws and paw pads, their rear end, and even their entire body. A good option for large dogs is the Pogi’s Grooming Wipes, which are bamboo-based and hypoallergenic.
3. Dry Shampoo for Dogs
If you want to clean, deodorize, and refresh your dog’s coat between baths, try a dry shampoo for dogs. Waterless dog shampoos are very easy to use. These powder, mouse or spray formulas can either be sprinkled or sprayed onto your dog, rubbed in, then brushed through.
They instantly absorb excess oil and grease, break down dirt and grime, and leave your dog’s coat looking soft and shiny and smelling great. This waterless no-rinse foam mousse is a convenient option for bathless coat cleaning and removal of pet odor between baths.
SEE ALSO: The Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy and Sensitive Skin
4. Dog Perfume or Cologne
Dog perfumes (pet colognes) are a popular choice for stylish pups or pups who aren’t smelling so swell between baths. They are designed to be light, aromatic, long-lasting, and safe. Some companies even make perfumes that mimic popular men’s and women’s designer scents. If your dog seems even the slightest bit irritated by the perfume’s smell, discontinue use, and never use human perfumes or colognes on a dog.
If looking for a quick recommendation, we like the Bodhi Dog’s Pet Cologne, which is a safe scented body spray with a non-toxic formula that does not affect flea and tick treatments.
5. Clean Your Dog’s Bed!
If you do everything you can to keep your dog clean between baths, it will all go out the window if their bed is still dirty and smelly. Wash your dog’s bed and blankets regularly to remove dirt and body oils. If you have the option, choose a bed that allows you to wash both the cover and the cushioning. Your dog will thank you by curling up for a sweet-smelling slumber.
Check out our guide to the best dog beds for large dogs here.
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5 Best Dog Clippers for Grooming Large Dogs
5 Best Dog Dryers for Big Canines
A big-dog lover, successful marketing executive, and website developer, Brian founded Canine Weekly in 2016. Brian lives just outside of Seattle with his wife and child. Brian grew up with labs and the family is eager to get another Labrador once their newborn is a little older. Brian is the former owner of Canine Weekly.
Thanks for sharing, Great tips
Where can I get dry shampoo, dog wipes and dog perfume? Is human dry shampoo safe?
Hi Kim,
You can find a wide selection of dry (waterless) shampoos, dog wipes and dog perfume on Amazon. It is not safe to use human dry shampoo on dogs.
Spray & brush your dog with a spray bottle of 50% warm water & 50% apple cider vinegar avoiding eyes & genitalia. Not only does it leave their coat clean & shiny but it helps calm itchy skin and repel fleas and ticks. Once it dries your dog will smell noticeably cleaner.