Common Myths About Dog Skincare Debunked
For pet parents, especially those with wrinkle-faced breeds like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs, taking proper care of their pup’s skin is a top priority. However, there are many myths out there about the best way to take care of your dog’s skin that can actually be harmful if followed. Let's discuss some of these common skincare myths and how you can properly take care of your pup’s skin health.
Myth 1: A wet wipe bath is all my pup needs
Yes, it might seem convenient to give your pup a quick bath with a few wet wipes here and there but this does not provide enough cleaning power for his or her skin. Wet wipes often contain alcohol and other irritants that can hurt your pup’s skin, so you should use a proper shampoo for bathing.
Myth 2: My pup needs daily baths to stay clean
This is far from the truth! Unless prescribed otherwise by your vet, most puppies only need to be bathed once every four weeks or longer. Too frequent of baths can strip away the protective oils on their skin, leading to dryness, itching, and other issues.
To determine whether or not it is time for a bath consider the following:
- Do they smell bad?
- Are they dirty or excessively sweaty from playing outside?
- Do they have dirt or debris stuck in their skin folds or are their wrinkles showing signs of irritation?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, it is probably time for a bath.
Myth 3: My wrinkle-faced pup doesn't need special skincare
Wrinkle-faced breeds are prone to problems such as infections in their facial folds if not properly cared for. You should always make sure to keep these areas clean and dry, wiping away any dirt or debris that may be stuck in the folds. You should also use a cleanser specifically designed for these breeds to help soothe and protect their skin.
After bathing your dog, be sure to dry it thoroughly from head to toe so that none of the water gets trapped in their wrinkles and folds. When water stays between the skin folds and wrinkles it can cause the skin to become irritated and even lead to a yeast infection.
In between baths, use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes to keep your doggo clean. Our alcohol-free formula is gentle enough for even the most sensitive and allergy-prone dogs and can prolong the time in between baths.
After your dog is clean and dry use Squishface Wrinkle Paste to protect their skin and prevent it from becoming dry and flaky. Wrinkle Paste forms a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus, and other bacteria away.
Myth 4: Dog shampoo is the same as human shampoo
This is a big no-no! Human shampoos are too harsh for your pup’s skin and can cause dryness, irritation, and even infection. Make sure to always use a shampoo specifically made for dogs that is free of irritants like sulfates and alcohol. When it is time to bathe your dog, choose a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo that was made specifically for dogs.
Myth 5: My pup’s skin is too sensitive for brushing
On the contrary, regular brushing can actually help promote healthy skin by removing dirt and debris from your pup’s coat. It also helps to spread natural oils throughout their fur which will keep it soft and shiny. Just make sure to use a brush that is designed specifically for your pet’s breed and coat type.
The Bottom Line
Taking care of your pup’s skin doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming - it just requires some knowledge of what’s true and what’s not! We hope this blog post has helped dispel some of the common skincare myths out there, especially as it pertains to wrinkle-faced breeds. With proper care, you can ensure that your pup always has healthy and happy skin!
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