Dry wash dog shampoo is the most common choice for dog owners who do not like water or searching for an easier alternative to maintaining their pet’s hygiene. Dry shampoos do not require a full bath with water.
Although dogs may not show as much aversion to water as cats, for many owners these shampoos are a great choice for pet washing. Dry dog shampoos will not cleanse your dog like ordinary shampoos because they are designed to reduce the odor of an animal, not to clean them.
How Does Dry Dog Shampoo Work?
Dry shampoos are applied in powder or spray form on dog hair. They contain Sodium bicarbonate commonly known as baking soda or cornstarch, which collects dirt and absorbs grease from furs and eliminates odors.
Your pet will have a cleaner skin after the use and a shinier coat. These shampoos are great for use in emergencies, such as before taking your dog to the dog’s beach. You can get these shampoos in powder or powder form, so we can using them outdoors.
How to Use a Dry Dog Shampoo
Before applying shampoo, the dog’s hair needs to be thoroughly brushed. Then apply the shampoo in a single layer evenly over the fur, avoiding the head and making sure that the powder does not come in contact with the eyes.
The shampoo should remain on the fur for a few minutes so you need to keep the dog calm during this time. Then gently brush the shampoo from the hair, then rub it with a towel to remove any dust residue.
It is recommended that the procedure be done outdoors so that the powder does not spread around the house or that you do not have to spend extra time removing the powder from the carpet or furniture.
Side Effects of Using These Shampoos
These dry dog shampoos should not be used on dogs that have open skin wounds, infections or irritations. Since many dogs have developed allergies to some preparations, it is recommended that you first apply some shampoo to the dog and wait until you see if there is a reaction. The side effects of using these shampoos are rare, but most often they show up in the form of irritation or sores. If you see an allergic reaction, stop using that shampoo and consult your veterinarian. In case of contact with eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
Do not use these shampoos as an exclusive substitute for ordinary water washing. You should bathe your dog in water at least once a month and you can use the dry wash shampoo 2 or 3 more times in the meantime if you want to quickly refresh your hair and reduce odors.
Washing with inadequate shampoos will remove the skin’s natural grease, making it easier to crack. This is especially dangerous in dogs because parasites and bacteria can easily draw into these skin cracks.
In other cases, excessive secretion of tallow may be possible due to dry skin. If so, dry shampooing will only cause problems and possibly cause health problems.
How to Make Dry Dog Shampoo at Home
You can make dry powder in your own home in minutes.
You need:
- 1 dag of baking soda
- 1 dag of corn starch
- 3- 6 drops of natural essential oil of choice
- Glass jar
Put the baking soda in a glass jar and then drip a few drops of essential oil. Add cornstarch to it and drop in 3 – 4 drops of oil again. With a wooden stick, mix the mixture well until the oil is completely melted with baking soda. Your shampoo is ready to use.
Alternatively, you can check out our top recommendations of dry dog wash shampoo that have received the best ratings from various dog owners.
Types of Shampoo
Dry shampoos are available in powder or spray form. Types of intended use:
Classic skincare – Universal for dogs and cats, cleans wool and oily skin, refreshes, and makes combing easier.
Therapeutic dog shampoos – Medical, containing substances for destroying fleas, ticks, and other skin parasites.
Restorative-Toning – Contains ingredients that give volume, shine, reduce hair fragility.
Coloring balm – For dogs of unequal color, makes their color more intense, used in preparation for exhibitions.
There are also various hair balms on the market, which are usually needed for dogs with longer hairs, to reduce static electricity and to facilitate combing.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dry Dog Shampoo
The benefits are not hard to notice:
- Dry-washing requires less time
- The procedure is dog-friendly
- Can be done on a trip
- Removal of impurities that can lead to the development of various infections
- No exposure of the dog to the hot air and noise of the hairdryer
- Dry shampoos are cheap and affordable
However, as with any preparation, one should be careful:
- Dogs that often lick their hair can bring in chemicals from the shampoo
- Should not be used in dogs with skin wounds or parasites
- Some dogs may be allergic to shampoo ingredients, which can cause skin irritation
- A dry wash is not a substitute for a real bath with water
Do not force your dog. If your dog is completely stressed and just doesn’t want to bathe, brush or haircut, don’t force it. Be aware of his signs that he is upset.
