If your dog is filthy, or stinky, please wash it. I get asked this a lot. If the dog is not so dirty you don’t mind it sitting on the couch or your bed, every couple of weeks is a good interval. Some dogs are like little pigs and get as dirty as they can, much like a young child.
I use a shampoo and conditioner formulated for breeds like Bulldogs and Sharpei’s. I buy it from a vendor I sometimes see at dog shows. I also use Orvus Livestock shampoo, mostly for what I call pet baths. Just be sure to rinse the dog off really well. Stay away from the perfumey shampoos you can get at PetSmart, Petco, ect. They are not good shampoos, and the chemicals to make them smell good can cause allergic reactions. An oatmeal based shampoo is good to use for Bulldogs, especially if you have an itchy dog. I always use a good conditioner to help keep the coat shiny, oily, and supple.
Never use a dish soap or laundry detergent or car wash soap. These soaps are much too harsh on a dog’s skin and will give it a very bad rash.
How about cleaning my bulldog’s nose wrinkle?
Every couple of days. An alcohol free baby wipe is best for this. Also keep the wrinkle nice and dry by using Gold Bond powder or baby powder. When you give your dogs a bath you can gently scrub it with shampoo and your thumb or a very mild cloth. Be gentle. It’s very sensitive skin.
This is also a good time to care for the nose itself, as well. You want to prevent the nose from drying out and cracking. To do this, apply either Carmex lip balm, Vaseline, or bag balm to the surface of the nose liberally.
How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
Often, and regularly. You do not want your dog to get a painful ear infection when it can be prevented simply by cleaning the ears. Be careful not to use a Q-tip, and injure the ear drums. It can happen easily. A good evaporative ear cleaner and alcohol free baby wipes work really well.