Even dogs that don’t shed need to be bathed from time to time. There are many inexpensive, natural and gentle ways to bathe a dog when it comes to getting rid of grime. Making a dog shampoo is one way to achieve both goals: using natural products for your dog and saving money with grandma’s dog shampoo. You may already have the ingredients in your cupboard, but if not, it’s easy to get them from the stores. Here’s how to make homemade dog shampoo without chemicals and save money on grooming.
What should I look out for when making dog shampoo?
The pH of your pet’s skin can be a problem. Some dogs are by nature more acidic than others. The pH level of each dog’s skin will be different, as will the pH level of each component in a handmade grandmother’s shampoo, and this must be taken into account before use to ensure the health and well-being of your dog.
The pH of human skin is between 4.5 and 6.5. A healthy range for dogs is between 6 and 8.5. Any soap with a pH too low (i.e. too acidic) can irritate the skin. When creating your own dog shampoo, look for ingredients with a pH of around 7.
The pH values of many soaps and soap bases are indicated on the packaging. If this is not the case, check the product’s website or contact the manufacturer for more information on the properties of the components.
The pH values of several basic products are as follows:
- sodium bicarbonate: 8.3 (alkaline) ;
- water: 7.0 (Neutral) ;
- vinegar: 2.2 (acidic) ;
- lemon juice: 2.0 (acidic).
When mixing these components to create a dog shampoo, be sure to balance the alkaline and acid elements in a neutral base (water) to keep the pH of your shampoo balanced for your dog’s skin. A pH that’s too alkaline won’t harm your dog’s skin, but a pH that’s too acidic can cause irritation and potentially injury. So be very careful when preparing your grandmother’s shampoo recipes.
Recipes for homemade dog shampoos
We’re going to give you a few dog shampoo recipes to make at home with simple ingredients. Nothing you can’t find in the shops, just simple grandmotherly tips ideal for bathing your dog.
Three-ingredient homemade dog shampoo
Washing-up liquid is designed to denature grease, so it can effectively remove excess sebum that has built up on your dog’s coat and skin. White vinegar is antimicrobial and deodorizing, and will also shine and clean your pet’s coat like a pamper. Just make sure it doesn’t get in his eyes. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this chemical-free recipe for grandma’s natural shampoo:
- 2 liters warm water ;
- 1/4 cup dish soap;
- 1/2 cup white vinegar.
Shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin
You’ll need the following ingredients for this chemical-free recipe:
- 3 liters water ;
- 1 cup cider vinegar or white vinegar;
- 1 cup washing-up liquid;
- 1/3 cup glycerine;
- 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel (an oil that releases a delicious scent and protects your dog’s skin).
After choosing one of the above grandmotherly recipes, in a spray bottle, shake all the ingredients to mix them well and make shampoo. Then, avoiding the eyes, dampen your dog’s coat with warm water and spray him with chemical-free shampoo. Work the shampoo into a rich lather and work it into the coat. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and towel-dry, then blow-dry, not forgetting the paws. No more wet dog smell after a good bath!
What should you do before washing your dog?
Brush and detangle your pet’s coat before washing it with Grandma’s special dog shampoo. Brushing your dog’s coat makes it easier to clean afterwards.
Put ophthalmic ointment in your dog’s eyes and cotton balls in his ears if you want to protect them and keep water out. These are very practical tips for your dog’s well-being, to avoid risks and problems, and to ensure that grooming remains a pleasure shared with your puppy or dog.
Make sure you keep your Grandma’s shampoo for dogs in a clean, dry place, close the cap tightly and clean the neck between uses to avoid skin infections.
