Why should you never wash your dog with human shampoo? In short, the answer is because humans’ skin and dogs’ skin is very different. And using human shampoo on a dog could do more damage than good.
More specifically, a dog and a human’s skin’s pH levels are very different. (The normal range for a human is between 5.2 and 6.2, and a dog’s ranges from 5.5 to 7.5, depending on size and breed). An imbalance in the skin’s pH levels can cause a hosts of problems, from mild irritation to full-blown infection. Shampoos are designed to replenish and moisturise the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), according to our respective (human vs dog) pH levels. And if we use human shampoos on our dogs, it will upset their delicate skin’s pH balance, leaving them vulnerable to infection and disease. Infections will then lead to a further deterioration in your dog’s skin condition, which in turn makes them smell bad, so you wash them again, and it soon becomes a vicious cycle. A good dog shampoo will be formulated specifically to maintain your dog’s all-important pH levels. Check the product label before you buy (it should give the exact pH level or at least state that it is pH-balanced for dogs) and while you’re at it, check to see if the product contains natural skin moisturisers, such as vitamin E or aloe vera, which are super beneficial for glossy coats. You should always use a mild, hypoallergenic pet shampoo. But, as mentioned previously, a dog’s pH varies tremendously. For example, a German Shepherd has an extremely alkaline pH level while Labrador Retrievers tend to me more acidic.
So if you are unsure about what’s best for your particular breed, chat to the pet shop owner or even better, your vet.
Regal Skin Healing Shampoo has been formulated to offer soothing, healing and calming relief for itchy, irritated and inflamed skin. Suitable for dogs of all skin types, including those with sensitive skin, this Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) free shampoo will assist with relieving allergic skin reactions, healing skin complaints and reducing skin odours. The shampoo has a pH balance of pH7 to promote healthy skin in dogs.
Regal Tick and Flea Shampoo has been formulated with Khakibos and Rosemary to offer a herbal solution to tick and flea infestation. Suitable for dogs of all skin types, this Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) free shampoo has a pH balance of 7 to promote healthy skin in dogs.
You will find the Regal range stocked across selected Pick ‘n Pay, Checkers, Spar and vet and pet shops around the country. We are also stocked in all Dis-Chem outlets nationwide.
