Is Dry Shampoo Good For Dogs, Or Should I Skip Straight To Real Baths?

""There are several dry shampoo products on the market for pets, but they are not an alternative to regular bathing," says Dr. Carly Fox, senior veterinarian in the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center's Emergency & Critical Care Service. "Dry shampoos should be avoided in any dog with underlying allergies or skin disease, as they can cause irritation. When applying, follow the package directions and avoid use around the face and eyes. If you select a veterinary product, and your dog does not have underlying skin disease, dry shampoos are safe to use sparingly in dogs in between regular baths.""

""It makes sense why you might wonder if dry shampoo is healthy for canines - just a few years ago, a host of dry shampoos were recalled because they contained benzene, a cancer-causing chemical compound. Hair care experts also say frequent dry shampoo use can be irritating to the scalp, cause buildup on the hair, and lead to dryness.""

""Yeah yeah, we all love our pups and they're members of the family - but no one loves their dog's smell. Especially if you have a short-haired breed, you have probably noticed that sometimes after you've been petting them, your hand can feel a little grimy from the oils and dirt on their coat."}],"

Many dog owners notice oils and dirt transfer from short-haired coats to hands after petting. Dry shampoo for dogs is formulated to absorb excess oils and freshen the coat between baths. Several dry shampoos were recalled for benzene contamination, and human dry shampoos can cause scalp irritation, product buildup, and dryness when used frequently. Dry shampoos are not a substitute for regular bathing. Dogs with allergies or skin disease should avoid dry shampoo because of potential irritation. Follow product directions and avoid use around the face and eyes. Veterinary-formulated products can be used sparingly in dogs without underlying skin disease to bridge between regular baths.

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