Application of Baby Shampoo on Dogs: Careful or Dangerous Secret?

You have just gotten back to your home and your dog has rolled in something nasty at the park and you are getting ready to have an emergency bath only to find that you have no more dog shampoo. When you are looking at the shelf of your bathroom, you see a bottle of baby shampoo where the words gentle and tear-free appear.

It appears to be an innocent solution to everything… but is baby shampoo safe on your dog?

We shall speak in this comprehensive:

The question of the safety of baby shampoo on dogs.

In cases that it may be applied on short-term basis.

The rationale behind pH-balanced dog shampoos.

Shampoo dangers of using human shampoos.

Grooming tips supported by the Vets that will help to keep the skin and coat healthier.

Dog Skin vs. Human Skin: 

The Importance of the Difference.

The pH level of the skin on dogs is a critical factor that makes them not to be used with baby shampoo on a regular basis.

Human skin pH: ~5.5 (more acidic)

Pet grooming expert Vicki Doyle indicates dog skin PH range between 6.5 -7.5 (more neutral).

The shampoos of humans (even baby shampoo) are created by keeping in mind the acidic pH of the human skin. This renders them brutal to dogs, despite the claim of being gentle.

The reason why pH Balance is important to the skin of a dog.

According to Molly Bissantz, the owner of Grooming By Molly, baby shampoo is not intended to be used with dogs, as it can cause problems with their skin, though it is mild to people.

When the pH isn’t right, it can:

Natural oils which are protective.

Increase dryness

Disrupt the skin barrier

Cause itching or flaking

Aggravate allergies

The skin barrier among dogs is also less resistant to irritation by the human products.

Is Baby Shampoo Safe for Dogs?

Yes but ONLY once, as an Emergency Measure.

Baby shampoo may be provisional where:

Your dog badly requires bathing.

No No It Should NOT Be Everyday.

It is not intended to be used long-term on dogs and may damage the health of their skin and coats in the long run.

When a Baby Shampoo Could be a Possibly Adequate Replacement in the Short Run.

Dog groomer Vicki Doyle suggests using baby shampoo in case of a lack of other choice.

And make sure that the shampoo is:

Hypoallergenic.

Tear-free.

How to use it safely:

Use a very small amount.

Rinse thoroughly.

Later, examine the skin of your dog and see whether it is irritated.

Dangers of Applying Baby Shampoo on Dogs.

Dry, flaky skin.

Itching or redness.

Alteration of the natural skin oils.

Increased sensitivity.

Dogs do not possess protective acidity that human beings possess and therefore may lose their skin balance easily when using baby shampoo.

How to Find the Best Shampoos to Use on Dogs:

Dog shampoos are made to replicate the natural pH of the dog skin.

Look for:

Hypoallergenic formulas

No perfumes or very light perfumes.

Essence does not contain sulfates, parabens, alcohol, and harsh detergents.

Symptoms of your Dog responding to the shampoo.

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