Is It Ok To Use Human Shampoo On Dogs?

Pet owners often wonder if they can use their own shampoo to wash their dog. Sometimes the financial crunch and tight budget is the reason. The other time, it’s just so they don’t have to spend extra when they can use their own product for washing the dog. However, it is wrong if you are doing that. It’s understandable if you used it once or twice when you ran out of stock of dog shampoo, but using it regularly can be very harmful to the dog’s skin. Let’s see why and how?

Ph Balance Of A Dog’s Skin  

To understand that you mustn’t use human shampoos on dogs, you must first be aware that the dog’s skin has a different ph than human skin. Dogs are on the alkaline side of the litmus with ph levels ranging from 6 to 7 whereas human skin is slightly acidic i.e. 5.5-7. When we use human shampoo on our dog, it disrupts the acid mantle of his skin. Acid mantle is a skin layer underneath the stratum corneum(topmost layer of the skin) which protects it from bacterial and viral infection. It also absorbs moisture to keep the skin hydrated and nourished. However, when this layer disrupts, a dog’s skin becomes more prone to infections, dryness, and flakiness. Dry skin causes itching and when the dog scratches itself, it opens up the skin layer for bacteria or virus to enter the body. Therefore, human shampoos can cause more harm than cleaning your dog. So, better avoid it.

Can You Use Natural Human Shampoos?

Yes, you can use chemical free, scent free ayurvedic shampoos on your pet because they won’t have any harmful ingredients in their composition. However, you won’t get that lather which you would need to keep the dog’s fur and skin immaculately clean. Some dirt or debris may remain left out which again may cause infections and skin allergies.

What In Case Of An Emergency?

Just in case you run out of stock, you can definitely use the human shampoo once or twice. But, it would be better if you keep enough stock in advance. 

Why Must You Use Only Dog Shampoo On Your Canine?

Dog shampoo is designed for dogs, which is why it has a perfect ph balance for dog’s skin.

They are gentle yet they clean thoroughly.

Dog shampoos are made from non-toxic components that are safe for use on dogs.

It surely lathers properly unlike baby shampoos or Ayurvedic ones.

They are available in a wide range so you can choose according to the skin of your dog. If his skin is extra sensitive or extra dry, you will get shampoos for specific requirements.

Fragrance in other shampoos that are not formulated for dogs may cause allergies or infection on his skin so better to avoid using them. 

Conclusion

Human shampoos must be avoided for use on dogs. They can only be used in emergency situations and rinsed properly. However, it is still advised not to use them at any point in time especially, if your dog already has dry and dull skin or coat. And do not forget to apply conditioner after the rinse. It enhances shine and softness providing enough moisture to the skin.