3 Natural Recipes – Top Dog Tips
Paying for professional grooming services can get expensive. If you’re looking to save some money, you can easily bathe your dog at home. You can even make DIY dog shampoo that is cheaper and safer for your pet than traditional, store-bought products.
The first thing you should know is that you need to use shampoo that is specifically formulated for dogs. Some owners think they can use the same shampoo that they use on their own hair to wash their dog. Unfortunately, human shampoo can actually do harm to your dog’s skin and coat.
Most commercial pet shampoos are full of toxins and chemicals that can do more damage to your dog than anything else. They won’t just effect his skin and coat; the toxins and chemicals contained in these grooming products can leach into your dog’s body through his skin. Some of these chemicals have been linked to diseases like cancer!
If you want to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy, it’s best to learn how to make your own DIY dog shampoo. Even commercial products that claim to use “natural” ingredients aren’t as safe as you may think. Oftentimes these products use a few natural extracts and the same chemicals and toxins as the other brands.
These companies trick consumers into thinking that they are spending money on a healthy and safe product, when they’re actually buying the exact same type of shampoo that they are trying to avoid. Learning how to make DIY dog shampoo is the only way to be 100% certain about the ingredients that you’re using to clean and nourish your pet’s skin and coat.
DIY Dog Shampoo: 3 Natural Recipes
Simple DIY Dog Shampoo
This is an easy recipe that can be used on most dogs. If your dog falls into the “average” category for skin and coat health, this shampoo will be a good choice. If your dog has dry, itchy skin, the vinegar in this recipe may be a bit too harsh.
To make this simple DIY dog shampoo, combine the following ingredients in an empty bottle:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup gentle baby shampoo or non-toxic dish soap
- 1/2 cup white or apple cider vinegar
DIY Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin
Itchy skin can be caused by a variety of factors, and some of them have been extensively researched in scientific studies. These studies show that the most common cause of itchy skin is dryness. Dry skin could be linked to environmental factors, like cold winter air. It may also be due to a nutritional deficiency.
A good shampoo for dry skin will cleanse the skin and coat to get rid of any allergens or irritants. It will also nourish the skin and restore the natural pH balance. Healthy skin fosters the production of natural oils that moisturize the coat and keep it shiny and healthy.
To make this shampoo for itchy skin, combine the following ingredients in an empty bottle:
- 1 quart water
- 1 cup gentle baby shampoo or non-toxic dish soap
- 1/3 cup glycerin
- 2 tbsp. aloe vera gel
DIY Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
Most of the over-the-counter products you will find to treat itchy skin contain oatmeal. Studies have shown that the properties in oats have a positive effect on itchy skin. To make this homemade oatmeal shampoo for dogs, you will need:
- 1 cup uncooked oatmeal
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 quart warm water
Grind the oatmeal in a food processor until it’s a powder. Mix all of the ingredients together in an empty bottle and shake well before each use.
When applying these homemade shampoos to your dog’s coat, be sure to work them down through the coat to the skin. Allow them to sit for at least 5 minutes before rinsing.
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