Can I Use Dove Soap on My Dog? Vet-Verified Reasons, Tips & FAQ

As a dog owner, you know your dog needs a bath now and then—especially when they get dirty by playing outdoors. But suppose you run out of your dog shampoo and want to use a bar of Dove soap on your dog. Is this a good idea?

You should not use Dove soap on your dog, even though it’s mild, and we’ll tell you why.

Why You Shouldn’t Bathe Your Dog Using Dove Soap

The American Kennel Club tells us that the pH level of our skin is different from that of our dogs. Our pH level ranges from 5.5–5.6, while dogs’ pH ranges from 6.2–7.4. Since Dove soap is made for human use, it’s formulated to match our skin’s pH level and not that of dogs’.

If you look at Dove’s Original Beauty Bar ingredients, you’ll see a list of things like lauric acid, zinc oxide, and sodium stearate that are safe for human skin. But dogs aren’t humans; their skin is far different from ours. Therefore, it only makes sense not to use Dove soap on your beloved pooch!

Now that you know your dog needs to be washed with a dog shampoo, pick up a bottle at your local pet store or online. Dog shampoos have plenty of varieties, so take your time and choose a good one, or consult with your vet.

If you’re shopping locally and can’t decide which shampoo to buy, ask the personnel at the pet store to help you find one that matches your dog’s fur type and needs. If you’re shopping online, read real customer reviews to find a suitable dog shampoo that’s well-rated.

Another way to find a great dog shampoo is by asking dog owners you know for some tips. Maybe you know someone who has the same kind of dog you have. If so, ask that person what dog shampoo they use. Just do what it takes to pick the right shampoo based on your dog’s needs.

Our Favorite Products

Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner makes the world of a difference when grooming your pup. Our favorite products are the duo by Hepper. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat. The Pet Conditioner works at eliminating tangles and taming frizz and static. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent. 

At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!

What to Use When You’re in a Pinch

If you run out of dog shampoo at the worst possible time and need to get your dog bathed right away, don’t fret! When you’re in a pinch, you can safely wash your dog using human baby shampoo diluted with water. Baby shampoo is gentler than adult shampoo, which will be less harsh on your dog’s skin and fur.

Don’t let the shampoo make its way into your dog’s eyes, nose, or mouth because it can cause some irritation to the mucous membranes, and make them drool or retch. Afterward, thoroughly rinse it out of your dog’s fur so it doesn’t cause your dog’s skin to become dry and flaky.

Worst case scenario, if you’re out of shampoo, use just the water to rinse out the dirt from your dog’s fur, before getting a veterinary-approved shampoo. Your vet may recommend a specific product if your dog is suffering with a skin issue, such as medical or antibacterial and antifungal shampoos, but note that dogs with wounds should not be bathed.

Don’t Bathe Your Dog Unnecessarily

Even if your dog is usually clean, they may get dirty and smelly occasionally, especially if they get into something like the biggest and dirtiest mud puddle in your yard! While a good bath now and then is a great way to keep your dog clean, overdoing it is not a good idea.

As a general rule, most dogs can be bathed every 1 to 3 months, depending on their skin health, breed, and different types of fur, meaning some dogs need to be bathed more than others. For example, a Saint Bernard with their thick, dense fur will need more baths than a Chinese Crested dog that doesn’t have much fur at all!

Tips for Safely Bathing Your Dog

It’s important to keep your dog safe and comfortable when you’re bathing them. There are a few things you can do to make bath time safe. First, use a non-slip bath mat on the bottom of your tub or shower so your dog doesn’t slip and fall. If you don’t have a mat, you can place a towel on the tub or shower floor to provide those paws with the traction they need.

Avoid getting their face and ears wet or put some cotton balls inside your dog’s ears to protect them from water and shampoo, but do not forget to remove them after and make sure they are big enough, not to get stuck inside the ear. Once you’ve got the mat down and cotton in your dog’s ears, test the water before bathing your dog to ensure it’s not too hot. Use a wet cloth to clean their face gently with just water.

If your dog is not a fan of baths, keep calm and quiet when speaking to them. Getting a dog used to bathing starts from a young age. When they’re bathed from a young age, they will get used to the sensation of being bathed in a bathtub, which can otherwise seem scary and stressful. Positive reinforcement with treats and using gentle praise are ways to ensure your dog is comfortable. If your pooch responds well to dog treats, have a few of their favorite goodies on hand to reward them for good behavior.

Whatever you do, never leave your dog unattended in the shower or tub! If you have to stop to get something, turn off the water and remove your dog from the shower before leaving the room.

Conclusion

Dove soap is for humans and not dogs. Using Dove soap too often can irritate and dry your dog’s skin which could cause itchiness and flaky skin. Be smart and play it safe by always using dog shampoo to clean up your beloved pal!

Related Reads: 

• Is Dawn Dish Soap Safe for Dogs?

• Can You Use Baby Shampoo on Dogs?

Featured Image Credit: OSSVI, Pixabay