Choosing the Perfect Dog Shampoo: A Guide
Why Can't Dogs Use Human Bathing Products?
It's a common misconception that all shampoo is the same, regardless of whether it's designed for humans or dogs. The pH balance of our skin differs significantly from that of our furry friends. Human skin typically has a pH range of around 5.2 to 6.2, whereas dogs have a pH range of approximately 5.5 to 7.5. While these numbers may seem close, they actually represent a substantial difference.
So, you might think that any shampoo would do, but that's not the case. If dogs regularly use human shampoos for cleaning, it can actually harm their skin. This can lead to skin damage, reduced protective barriers, and create an environment where bacteria thrive. The skin of dogs is also much thinner than ours; their epidermis consists of 3 to 5 layers, while humans have 10 to 15 layers, which is about three times as thick.
Given this, dogs' skin is particularly delicate. Longterm use of human shampoos, which are often more aggressive and harsh, can actually leave their skin feeling dry and itchy. This can lead to relentless scratching, which may even cause bleeding. The strong cleaning agents and irritants in human shampoos can strip away the natural oils that protect a dog's skin, leading to a host of skin issues.
Over time, using human shampoos for dogs can result in a variety of skin diseases. If this practice continues for more than 2 to 3 months, not only will the dog's coat become dull and coarse, but it may also develop dandruff or start to shed excessively.
