by Martin W. Schwartz

Created on: September 14, 2008   Last Updated: September 15, 2008

This really should have been a debate on whether or not to bathe a dog. Certain breeds do require regular grooming, particularly the long-haired purebreds and mixes, but there is a group of dogs that should rarely, if ever, be subjected to a bath. These are the German and Belgian Shepherds and any mixed breeds that incorporate more than 25% of Shepherd in the animal.

German Shepherds and their cousins the Belgians, have a unique skin pH (acid-alkaline reading) that is different from all other dogs. While dog groomers, who make their living by bathing dogs, will tell you it is perfectly fine to groom and bathe these animals, don't yoou believe it. Any responsible breeder or your veterinarian will tell you that if you bathe these breeds, especially using a soap, even one made for dogs, you will remove the protective oils from the skin and cause problems with the double coat that they have, as well as precipitate skin irritations and potential allergies.

If you have one of these Shepherd breeds or mixes and they become dirty because of contact with unclean water or an animal encounter or some other reason, it is best to take them to a professional groomer, or if necessary as in the case of run-in with a skunk, to a veterinarian, and have them cleaned using the gentlest of shampoos. After cleaning and grooming, their skin should be rubbed down with an oil that will help restore the proper pH balance. For at least a week afterward the animal should be given veterinary fish-oil capsules, by weight, to prevent hair loss or dandruff. These are not the same as what people use, because dogs require a much higher concentration of the active substances in fish oil. If you don't want to use fish oil, which also has excellent anti-inflammatory properties, you can mix into the dogs meals (adjusting the other food so as to not overfeed) a can (or portion depending on dog weight) of high quality tuna fish in water (not vegetable oil). After a week or so, if the dog exhibits no skin or hair problems you can return to its normal schedule.

For the Shepherd line the best grooming is simply to brush it frequently with a stiff wire brush, followed by a finishing brush. Some people like to use a furminator, but if overused they can remove too much hair and adversely impact the dogs natural skin insulation from the elements. Because it is inevitable that a dog will end up being walked in the rain or perhaps get sprayed by a garden hose or sprinkler, a simple thorough towel drying is really all this breed needs to keep clean and healthy.

Since every breed has different grooming needs, before you go to a dog groomer, check with your breeder, veterinarian or trainer as to the best way to groom and bathe, if needed, your dog. Keep in mind that a mistake in grooming and bathing (excessive or wrong kinds of shampoo) can lead to health problems, veterinary bills and emotional distress for your pet and yourself.

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