Things You'll Need
- Wet Shampoo:
- Gentle dish soap
- Apple cider vinegar
- Vegetable-based glycerin
- Dry Shampoo:
- Oatmeal
- Cornstarch or Baking Soda
Instructions
Gentle Liquid Dog Shampoo
Into a bowl, add 1 cup of an all-natural liquid dish soap, such as Seventh Generation. Ivory and Dove are also gentle options that do not contain perfumes or dyes and are readily available. Soaps that appear clear or white normally contain fewer dyes but always check the label to be sure.
Gently stir in 1 cup of water, being careful not to create lather. Add more water as necessary to reach the desired consistency. If using a city water source, keep in mind chlorine and other chemicals have been added during the treatment process. Inexpensive distilled, spring, or "baby" water may be purchased by the gallon and you may consider using these to further reduce the risk of irritation.
Measure 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and pour into soap and water solution. The vinegar is a natural deodorizer and will make your pet less appealing to fleas, a major allergy contributor.
To retain and replace moisture on the skin, add 1/3 cup of pure vegetable glycerin. It can be purchased at drug stores, supermarkets, and online for less than $5.
Mix thoroughly and pour into an empty recycled shampoo bottle. When ready to use, spray dog with water and lather as any other shampoo. If necessary, shake to redistribute the glycerin.
Dry Grooming Cleanser
Frequent bathing can further irritate dry skin. Try "dry grooming" to prolong the period between baths. A natural homemade powder cleanser absorbs dirt and oil and freshens up a smelly pooch.
In a blender or food processor, mix 1 cup of oatmeal with 1 cup of either cornstarch or baking soda. Continue blending until it is the consistency of fine powder.
Sprinkle the mixture onto the pet and thoroughly rub into the fur with hands or a towel. Concentrate on working onto the skin of the dirtiest areas. When applying around the face, use caution not to get into the eyes and nose.
Thoroughly brush the treated areas to remove any excess. Unused powder can be stored in a sealed container for later use.