Skin conditions are one of the most common problems in veterinary practices. Therapeutic shampoos are often used in these treatments. Therefore, knowing how to bathe a dog with dermatitis is important to rid your pet of this problem.

Bathing a dog with dermatitis is one of the possible treatments for dermatological conditions. Because your pet’s skin is more sensitive, it’s important to pay extra attention when choosing a shampoo, knowing the product’s duration, and taking care during and after bathing. Learn how to do this below.

What is dermatitis in dogs?

Canine dermatitis is an inflammation or infection of the skin caused by various factors, such as bacteria, fungi, or allergies. These conditions leave the skin red, scaly, and itchy . Eventually, hair may fall out, leaving patches in the coat. There may also be discharge, leaving the skin moist.

In general, all skin diseases lead to inflammation. This means that “dermatitis” is a generic term for a dermatological condition. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to investigate what might be triggering dermatitis in dogs .

Therapeutic baths for dogs

How to treat dermatitis in dogs ? To discuss treatment, you need to have some knowledge about therapeutic baths. These involve applying medications or therapeutic shampoos to the pet’s skin during the process.

Most often, soap, conditioner, lotion, or shampoo are used to bathe a dog with dermatitis . It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s and veterinarian’s instructions for the duration and application method.

These products aren’t conventional, like other soaps or shampoos for everyday bathing. They remove dirt from your dog’s skin and fur, but also contain antiseptics, antifungals, moisturizers , vitamins, and other substances to treat dermatitis.

Furthermore, therapeutic bathing for animals also follows specific guidelines regarding water temperature and dryer temperature—if applicable—and whether or not to use perfumes, among other recommendations. After all, your pet’s skin requires a lot of attention during treatment.

Care during the therapeutic bath

Therapeutic baths are important for treating dermatitis in dogs . The soothing effects have a comprehensive effect on the skin, regulating the functions of glands, hair, and skin, rebuilding barriers, replenishing water and fat, and controlling infections and flaking.

However, it’s important to remember that a pet with dermatitis has more fragile and sensitive skin. In this case, it’s important to be careful not to further injure them. Avoid using rough materials to scrub and use only your fingertips, never your nails.

Remember: it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s prescription throughout the entire process. Furthermore, because the skin is very sensitive, monitor its progress after treatment and continue to follow up with your veterinarian to reevaluate the protocol if necessary.

It’s important to check for any changes after bathing, as the skin may be more sensitive. Your pet may not accept the shampoo well, even if it’s specifically formulated for canine dermatitis . If this occurs, rinse the shampoo off with plenty of water and contact your veterinarian.

How to bathe a dog with dermatitis?

Learning how to bathe a dog with dermatitis has its own specificities. The first step is knowing which product to use. To do this, you should consult your veterinarian. Remember that there are many causes of the disease and many products, each designed for a different skin condition. Therefore, a correct diagnosis is essential.

Pre-bath

The first tip for bathing a dog with dermatitis is to prepare all your supplies before taking your pet to the grooming area. Grab shampoo, conditioner, a brush, a towel, a blow dryer, and eye and ear cleaning products prescribed by your veterinarian. If you’re bathing at Petz Bath & Grooming, bring only the products recommended by your veterinarian.

Before bathing, brush your dog’s fur to remove dead hair and detangle knots—without pulling, to avoid further damage to the skin. Clean the eyes with cotton wool soaked in the special cleaning lotion. Use a separate pad for each eye and around the muzzle.

Now it’s time for your ears . Moisten a cotton ball with the special cleaning lotion, wrap it around your finger, and gently wipe your ears and ear folds. Don’t go too deep, as this can push wax deeper into the canal.

Always use veterinary products and follow the manufacturer’s and veterinarian’s recommendations. Then, place a piece of hydrophobic cotton in each ear to protect the internal structures, and you can wet your pet.

Therapeutic bath

If your pet is already accustomed to bathing, wet them with warm water as usual. Otherwise, start by wetting their feet and work your way up slowly. Apply the shampoo all over their body and massage gently to produce a light lather. Be careful around their eyes and mouth to avoid any accidents with the shampoo.

This shampoo works over time, so it should be left on for the period recommended by your veterinarian. To distract your pet while the timer is on, continue massaging or playing small games. Then, rinse thoroughly.

Apply the conditioner and leave it on for the indicated time. Then, rinse off any excess product with plenty of water. Remove all the cotton from the ears and clean them. Then, it’s time to dry. Use a blow dryer on a low heat setting or a towel. If necessary, gently brush the coat.

Now you know how to bathe a dog with dermatitis. Just follow your veterinarian’s instructions and the tips in this content. Take the opportunity to schedule a Bath & Grooming appointment at one of Petz’s locations. The service offers therapeutic baths using products recommended for your pet.