Conditioner is a necessary part of our bathing routine, so is it necessary for our dogs? Many dog owners dislike bathing their dog, so the idea of prolonging the process an extra few minutes is less than ideal. What many dog owners don’t know is that the final step can really improve the state of their pet's coat, especially those with longer hair or itchy skin.
Shampoo is used to help remove any unwanted dirt and grime from the dog’s coat and skin. When we shampoo without conditioning, it leaves the hair cuticle open. This means residue and oils can enter, and hydration can escape. When we condition the coat, it closes the hair cuticle, restoring hydration and moisture. So just to recap, dog conditioner certainly won't help clean your dog’s fur, but it will help restore the moisture, resulting in a smooth and shiny coat. Conditioners can also help with any damage that has been caused by brushing, deshedding, patting and general wear and tear.
Some dogs definitely benefit more than others from conditioning. Dogs with longer coats are prone to mattes, so conditioner will not only make the dogs coat healthier but make your life easier by helping to reduce any mattes or tangles. Conditioner is also recommended for dogs that are bathed frequently. Frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so conditioning will moisturise the coat and improve shine.
Dermcare has an Aloveen Shampoo and Conditioner Twin Pack, which is the perfect combination for dogs prone to dry and itchy skin. It includes the Dermcare Aloveen Conditioner, that is a soothing and intensive Oatmeal based conditioner and Dermcare Aloveen Shampoo, which is a gentle hypoallergenic shampoo. If you already have a shampoo you are happy with, we highly recommend finishing with the Petway Pink Conditioner, PAW Sensitive Skin Conditioner or Fido's Creme Conditioner.
While we believe every dog can benefit from conditioning, we highly recommend it if you have a dog with long hair or itchy skin. It will minimise mattes, give your dog a more lustrous appearance, and they will feel amazing!