Washing dogs

[Lady-bug]

Does anyone know of anything 'natural' I can wash the dog with? I think I read somewhere you can use wool mix? Is that right??

[S'rose]

Oh darn... I just bought books on green cleaning, but not the one with the pet shampoo recipe in it.

I do know its called Green Cleaning... its tall and skiiny with a hard back cover. Maybe if you see it in a book shop you could copy down the recipe.

Sorry that was no help at all.

[Jennifer13]

Apparently a can of tomato juice is very good for dogs who have skin conditions and can also take away that doggy odour.

We use a product you buy from the vets that is organic and environmentally friendly.

[krysalyss]

Wool mix shouldnt be used as it is too harsh. It is still pretty commonly used among dog breeders however. I can recommend a couple of good brands eg. fidos or natural dog shampoo (dermcare I think). but wouldnt really put either of them in the truly natural category. Perhaps Christy will pop in.

[Nai]

There's the Herb Doctor Dog Wash which in an organic herbal blend made in Australia - I think you can get it online.

[HotI]

We use baby shampoo. Not necessarily 'natural', but we've never had any skin problems. And it's a good price.

[~ Mylitta ~]

My favorite dog shampoos and conditioners are made by a company called PAW (Pure Animal Wellbeing). They don't contain any sulphates, ethoxylated cleaning agents, toxic preservatives, parabens or artificial fragrances. They are really mild and don't strip the dogs coat and skin of it's natural oils.

The PAW range is available in Vet Clinics.

My second favorite range is the Dermcare range (that krysalyss mentioned) which includes "natural" shampoo and "aloveen" shampoo and conditioner.

Just remember that it very important to use a shampoo and conditioner that's made for dogs (and cats) specifically. Dog skin and human skin have very different pH levels and requirements, so human products are not suitable for pets. Yes, they'll probably "clean" the dogs hair, but they'll also damage it, strip oils and moisture from the fur and skin and can cause serious skin conditions.

[Lady-bug]

Thanks everyone, I think i'll head to the vet to see what they stock!