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How often should I bathe my stinky puppy and what shampoo is safe?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | 4 months and 27 days old
I have been bathing my puppy 2 times a week because she gets stinky. Is that bad? Should I just bathe her once a week? And what kinds of shampoos should I use? Right now I'm using Hartz tearless puppy shampoo is that ok?
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 8th, 2017
I typically recommend bathing no more than once every week or every 2 weeks unless there is a skin condition requiring frequent medicated baths. If Luna’s skin is not becoming dried out or irritated the frequency of bathing and the type of shampoo you are using is probably fine.
If Luna is itchy, her skin is red or flakey, or if she has an unusual odor, she may have a skin condition. If this is the case she needs to have an examination done by your veterinarian to address her skin issues. She may need a medicated shampoo and antibiotics or an antifungal medication to help clear up the infection.
I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.
If Luna is itchy, her skin is red or flakey, or if she has an unusual odor, she may have a skin condition. If this is the case she needs to have an examination done by your veterinarian to address her skin issues. She may need a medicated shampoo and antibiotics or an antifungal medication to help clear up the infection.
I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful