How a dirty or messy home can harm your dog's health

Everyone has different standards when it comes to how we keep our homes – what feels clean and comfortable to one might feel too sterile or, on the other end of the scale, far too messy and dirty to another. When you share your home with a dog, however, certain hygiene practices are important for both you and your dog’s safety and health. In this article, we look at 8 essential dog hygiene habits for every dog owner.

1. Clean Your Dog’s Bed Regularly

Your dog’s bed can quickly accumulate dirt, hair, dander, and bacteria, so it’s important to clean it regularly. Most dog beds can be machine washed, and this should be done at least once a week or whenever it appears dirty. If possible, have a spare cover so that you can ensure there’s always a clean option available for your dog, even when one is in the wash. You should also vacuum your dog’s bed area regularly to remove loose hair and dander.

2. Groom Your Dog Regularly

Regular grooming is an essential part of dog hygiene. Depending on the breed, this might mean daily brushing for longer-haired breeds or weekly brushing for shorter-haired ones. Regular grooming keeps your dog’s coat clean and free from mats, reduces shedding, and provides an opportunity to check for signs of skin conditions, fleas, and ticks. Additionally, bathing your dog every 4-6 weeks (or as needed) helps keep their skin and coat in good condition.

3. Check and Clean Your Dog’s Ears

Dogs’ ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, and unusual odour. Depending on the breed – dogs with long, floppy ears are more prone to ear infections – you might need to clean their ears regularly. Your vet can show you how to clean your dog’s ears safely if you’re unsure.

4. Clean Your Dog’s Food and Water Bowls

Food and water bowls can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Ideally, they should be washed after each use with hot soapy water. Additionally, always ensure that fresh, clean water is available for your dog throughout the day.

5. Maintain Your Dog’s Dental Hygiene

As discussed in our previous section on dental health, regular brushing is the most effective way to maintain your dog’s dental hygiene. In addition to brushing, providing dental chews and toys can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.

6. Pick Up After Your Dog

Picking up dog faeces promptly is essential, not just for hygiene but also for public health. Dog faeces can contain a variety of pathogens, including bacteria and parasites that can be harmful to humans and other animals. Always carry poop bags when walking your dog and dispose of them in designated bins or in your household waste.

7. Keep Your Dog’s Living Area Clean

Regularly clean the areas where your dog spends most of their time. This includes vacuuming or sweeping up hair and dander, washing soft furnishings that your dog uses, and cleaning any toys. If you allow your dog in your bed, it’s important to change your bedding frequently.

8. Wash Your Hands After Handling Your Dog

Always wash your hands after handling your dog, especially before eating or preparing food. This is particularly important for children, who may be more vulnerable to certain infections. Handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of zoonotic disease transmission (disease that can pass from animals to humans).