What's the Best Dog Shampoo?

There are hundreds of dog shampoo products and dog product manufacturers. Because of this, many dog owners find it difficult to choose one that fits their dog's needs the best. It is important to take note that human shampoo, no matter how expensive, elegant, or mild, is not appropriate for a dog's hair.

Human hair and dog hair have very different genetic structure that should be treated with care. Presently, you may have your trusted dog shampoo brand, but please two minutes to read this short guide in order to make sure that the product you chose is the best shampoo for your dog.

How To Decide?

There are five factors that you must consider in choosing the best dog shampoo-the quality, the promised efficacy, the ingredients, the fragrance, and of course, the price.

QUALITY - When it comes to the shampoo's quality, test how the dog responds to the product, and see for yourself if bathing your dog with this shampoo is easy or not. It's very important that the shampoo you choose can be lathered and rinsed well.

EFFICACY - By promised efficacy, it means that the product should highlight the desired results that it presented in the package. A dandruff shampoo, a shiny coat shampoo, a moisturizing shampoo, a hair growing shampoo and many other types must fulfill the promise that they leave to the consumers.

INGREDIENTS - As much as possible, owners must choose shampoos that are hypoallergenic. This type of product contains mild ingredients that do not irritate the skin and produce serious allergic reactions. Choosing products with natural ingredients is also recommended, as biological conservation and eco-friendliness have also become pressing concerns today. Some of the most popular natural and organic ingredients used in dog shampoos today are aloe vera, peppermint, burdock, and shea butter.

It is important to take note though that many dog shampoos are not mild and natural, in as much as these dog products are aimed to cure certain skin conditions. There are shampoos for dogs suffering from itchiness caused by ant bites, fleas, ticks, and many other insects. There are also shampoos for dogs experiencing skin inflammation, wounds, and hair loss. Serious skin conditions, it must be emphasized, are a veterinarian's business. Over the counter dog shampoo medications sold at pet supply stores are only for mild cases.

FRAGRANCE - The dog must feel homey, and this can be heightened by choosing the best dog shampoo whose fragrance is sweet and reminds the dog of his or her home. In picking a scent, choose something similar to the smell of home-the smell of jasmine, or orange, or strawberry, or lavender, or anything that reminds the dog that it is indeed at its home sweet home.

PRICE - The price of the product should also be a concern, but it is advised to check the label first before worrying about the tag price. Since the bottle will be consumed in perhaps two to three months, it is better to put in the basket something that is mid-range or expensive in price but very worthy to be used than a less-expensive one that does not show satisfying results.

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Brandon Roe is the author of "The Official Dog Coat and Skin Care Guide", a comprehensive 52-page guide to healthy dog skin. To receive your complimentary copy FREE today, visit www.K9KlearUp.com

What Stress Can Do to Your Dog

Stress for a pet can either be physical or emotional, just as with their human owners. Stress can be triggered by a change in the pets environment or what a pet perceives as a threat to their well-being.

Health problems such as infections, injuries, injuries from fights and changes in the amount of exercise can cause stress. Boarding in unfamiliar places, breeding, whelping, performing in shows, and travel can cause stress. A death in the immediate family of the owner which can cause a loss of affection can cause stress. Earthquakes, home fires, extra people in the home can cause stress. Sudden changes in the living area such as new furniture or a new home can cause stress. Age is also a factor with stress. Older pets do not react well to changes in their routine. They also become set in their ways. In older pets it is advisable to arrange a sitter rather than put the pet in a kennel if travel for the owner becomes an issue. The pets environment and routines will have only a minimal change. Usually a little more protein and fat are a good idea. For an amount specific to your breed consult your veterinarian.

Stress can cause a change in your pets behaviour. Changes can be aggressive behaviour or complete depression. Either scenario requires TLC (tender loving care). Keep yourself and your pet as calm, quiet and relaxed as possible. Provide comfort food, lots of water and a quiet place to rest. Having a portable kennel and a muzzle are also recommended. Consult your veterinarian prior to and after stressful situations for suggestions to prevent minimal stress and to ensure your pets health and recovery will have a speedy return to normal.

Stress causes an increase in your pets heartbeat and their muscles tense. Extra energy is needed to help cope with stress. Adding a little extra comfort food is recommended.

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Terrie Simpson has been involved in the dog world for over 28 years and has achieved numerous awards with her Springer Spaniels in tracking and obedience. Over that time, she has amassed a good amount of knowledge about how to keep a dog healthy. She is now happy to give back by sharing her experience with other dog owners.

Terrie is a contributing writer for the K9 Kourier - a weekly dog health care ezine. To sign up for the K9 Kourier and receive a free $47 gift visit The K9 Kourier Weekly ezine - everything you need to help you keep your canine happy, healthy and full of life - the natural way.