Can You Use Baby Wipes to Clean Your Dog's Wrinkles?
Cleaning your pup's wrinkles is an important part of keeping them healthy and comfortable. According to Dr. Kate Pierce, DVM at PenBay Veterinary Associates, “The most important part of preventing infection of facial wrinkles in brachycephalic [short-nosed] dogs is keeping the folds clean and dry."
So what's the best way to clean those wrinkles? Well, if you're a seasoned parent you know that baby wipes aren't just for babies. In fact, they've become a go-to product for cleaning up messes and spills around the house.
But as a pet parent, using baby wipes to clean your wrinkly doggo is not recommended by veterinarians and grooming professionals.
Why shouldn't I use baby wipes on my wrinkly dog?
Unfortunately, baby wipes can contain chemicals and fragrances that may be too harsh for your pup's sensitive skin. Additionally, baby wipes are designed to be used on human skin, not canine fur and skin. The pH levels in the wipes are simply not formulated for dogs.
Even worse, the moisture in baby wipes can actually get stuck in pet wrinkles, leading to bacteria overgrowth or fungal infections such as yeast dermatitis. These conditions can lead to painful inflammation and infection of the affected areas if left untreated. Using scented baby wipes on pets could cause allergic reactions or negative reactions from their delicate sense of smell.
Most importantly, baby wipes are not strong enough to clean dirt and debris out of the wrinkles. Breeds like Pugs and English Bulldogs have naturally deep wrinkles that can collect a lot of dirt, and baby wipes simply don’t provide the power necessary to remove it all.
What is the best way to clean my wrinkle-faced pup?
To keep their wrinkles free of dirt and debris, it's recommended that you use a cleaning solution like Squishface Wrinkle Wipes made specifically for pets. This type of product kills bacteria and prevents infection - unlike baby wipes. You should also make sure to dry your pup’s wrinkles thoroughly after cleaning them. A gentle cloth or soft towel is best as they are less likely to irritate the skin.
It is also important to brush your dog’s coat regularly using a soft-bristled brush and a mild pet-safe shampoo. Regular brushing helps collect any stray dirt from the skin folds, preventing the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infection.
How often should I use wipes on my pup?
It is recommended to clean your pup's wrinkles using wrinkle wipes or paste at least once per week. This will help keep the skin folds and crevices free from bacteria, fungi, dirt, and debris. Additionally, try to dry your pup’s wrinkles as soon as possible after baths or swimming sessions.
The Bottom Line
While baby wipes may be helpful around the house for humans, they should not be used to clean dog wrinkles in breeds like English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs due to their harsh chemicals and fragrances which can irritate sensitive skin. The best way to keep your pup’s wrinkles healthy is by using wipes and other products that are specifically formulated for pets. Additionally, brushing regularly with a soft-bristled brush and mild pet-safe shampoo is important in helping keep your pup’s wrinkles clean and free of bacteria and other microorganisms.
By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your pup's wrinkles stay happy and healthy!
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