As a dog owner, you may be overwhelmed by the abundance of available dog products in the market. Similarly, you may think, Can you use a human conditioner on dogs? Or Is it really necessary for dogs to have their own separate shampoo? If yes, then why!
Let’s discuss this in detail.
Dogs Have Different Skin Than Humans
The skin of many dog breeds is extremely sensitive since it is only about half as thick as our skin and has an entirely different pH level. Using products developed for human use and expecting them to have the same effect on your dog’s hair and skin as they would on your own is a sure way to aggravate this condition. If you’re wondering whether or not you can use a conditioner intended for humans on your dog, the answer should be no.
Is Human Conditioner OK?
In general, human hair conditioner should not be applied to canines because it was designed specifically for human hair. Skin sensitivity and prone to allergies are common in dogs; using human conditioners, especially regularly, may result in irritation and other problems.
Human Products Are Designed For Humans
It is not a good idea to apply human conditioners to your dog because the formulation of these products is intended for human usage. Even if you have a shampoo that is supposed to be mild, made entirely of natural ingredients, or appropriate for use on children, it is still recommended to reserve it for use on humans.
Using it even once is probably safe, even though it is not the best option. Dogs are not at risk of toxicity from the components of the conditioner. The fact that it could throw off their ph balance is a cause for concern.
Can Humans Use Dog Conditioners?
No. Shampoo for dogs is not intended for human use and should only be applied. Although this appears to be a little distinction, there is, in fact, a significant gap between the two. Because the pH balance of dog fur is radically different from that of human hair, maintaining its strength and health requires a separate set of chemicals.
The optimal pH level for human hair is anywhere between neutral and acidic, but the optimal pH level for dog fur is between neutral and basic. Because of this difference, using dog shampoo on your head can disrupt the natural equilibrium of your skin and hair, resulting in several unwelcome side effects.
Can Dogs Use Other Human Grooming Products?
No. Due to the fact that dogs’ skin is far less thick than ours and they only have two insulating barriers on the surface of their skin, as opposed to the approximately seven that people have, dogs’ skin is significantly more sensitive than our skin.
The fact that certain dogs have sensitive skin may make this problem much more challenging to deal with for such canines. It might be that your skin is dehydrated or that it is easily irritated. Therefore, using shampoo made for humans on canines with sensitive skin is exceedingly dangerous.
What Happens If You Put A Conditioner On A Dog?
The result differs depending on the type of conditioner (whether a human conditioner or a dog conditioner).
Ph Balance
The pH levels of canines and humans are not equivalent (as discussed above). This indicates that putting dog shampoo on a human being might cause our fur to become dry, resulting in dandruff issues. It is in your best interest to steer clear of applying conditioner intended for dogs or any other product intended for dogs to yourself.
Ingredients and Skin Thickness
Even conditioners advertised as natural or mild pose a health concern to canines. Irritation of the skin can result from upsetting the normal ph balance.
Dogs have delicate skin. Because of the fact that it is thinner than human skin, more caution is required while handling it.
Doggie Conditioner Benefits
In addition to restoring moisture and smoothing the face and hair, the doggie conditioner supplements shampoo. It makes the dog fur supple and simultaneously “repairs” the coat. The purpose of using conditioner after shampooing a dog is to “replace” the natural oils that the shampoo “removes” from the fur and skin of the animal.
What Are The Consequences Of Using A Human Conditioner On A Dog?
If you use a conditioner intended for humans on your dog, which then throws off their pH balance, what kind of damage are you doing to your dog?
The uppermost layer of the skin functions as the major barrier, preventing potentially hazardous germs and other irritants linked with them from entering your dog’s body. It aids in hydration, which is essential for healthy skin and the body’s overall health.
Your dog’s skin becomes more vulnerable to dangerous contaminants and sickness if you don’t routinely restore this mantle. According to veterinarians, the skin on your dog is much thinner than a human’s, so if you put human products on him, he will end up with dry, flaky skin that itches and is prone to infection.
Treating My Dog’s Itchy Skin
You should look for a medicinal dog shampoo that has soothing ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera if your pet experiences itchy skin.
Frequent Skin Infections In Dogs
Medicated shampoos can help with canine skin conditions such as dermatitis, fungal infections, and bacterial infections. Any licensed veterinarian might suggest a reliable one.
Greasy Skin
The most common causes of a dog’s skin being stinky are fungal infections and bacterial infections, both of which may be treated with an antifungal and antibiotic shampoo that your doctor can suggest. You should plan ahead and study the labels carefully since many medicinal shampoos have lengthy contact durations, sometimes up to 10-20 minutes.
Flaky Skin
If your dog has dry, flaky skin, you should consult your veterinarian to find a solution that will help restore the coat’s natural oils without irritating your pet. Fish oils and similar items are beneficial for humans and are just as valid for dogs.
Normal Skin
You can successfully wash any dog with a regular pet-safe shampoo. An animal whose skin doesn’t show any abnormalities, including greasiness, flakiness, or dryness, is considered normal.
Use A Shampoo And Conditioner Combo
Even while you may give your dog a bath with shampoo and conditioner separately, it is more convenient to use a product that combines the two functions into one. You may save time and money by purchasing a shampoo and conditioner combination for your dog that comes in a single bottle. You don’t need to use shampoo, rinse it out, apply conditioner, and then rinse it out if you use a product that cleanses and conditions your dog’s hair simultaneously.
If you find bath time stressful for your dog, consider purchasing a shampoo and conditioner combination. It will shorten the amount of time needed for a bath in half, allowing your dog to get out of the bathtub or shower much more quickly.
Even if your dog is unable to communicate with you verbally, he will demonstrate his appreciation for your thoughtfulness by smothering you with sloppy, huge kisses!
When Should I Use A Conditioner On My Dog?
If you use a shampoo that is safe for dogs, you won’t need to use conditioners for your dog’s hair almost all the time. These conditioners can help deal with a dry coat, and some owners will use them in between bathing to help prevent their pup from acquiring that natural dog smell. In addition, these conditioners can assist in dealing with other issues related to dry coats.
What Can I Use Instead Of A Dog Conditioner?
There are a few alternatives available to you if you do not have a dog conditioner on hand, including the following:
Corn Starch
You can use corn starch to untangle your dog’s fur if that’s all you aim to accomplish. Corn starch should be rubbed into the knotted hair, and then you should use your hands to work through the knots slowly. Corn starch can also help alleviate skin irritations, including rashes and itching.
Coconut Oil
When combined with additional components like honey, coconut oil creates an excellent skin conditioner as well as a shampoo for washing your dog’s skin and coat.
Human Conditioner
If you are going to use a human conditioner, you should dilute it with water by the ratio of one part conditioner to four parts water. It is still not the ideal choice, but if it is diluted in this way, it is less likely to create problems.
Do Dogs Need Hair Conditioners?
To the same extent that they require a nourishing diet and regular washes, dogs do not need to have their hair conditioned. On the other hand, it is to their advantage. Conditioner may be of greater use to some specific dogs with dry fur.
Dogs With Long Hair
When you use any premium quality conditioner on your own hair, one of your goals is to maintain it manageable and simple to untangle. This is one of the benefits of using conditioner.
This is also true for the animal that you share your home with. If your pup has long hair, it can be a significant challenge to prevent knots and mats from forming in its coat.
Conditioner may make brushing your dog’s hair simpler, and it can also help your dog’s hair remain detangled for a longer period of time.
Dogs With Dry or Irritated Skin
Conditioners may provide comfort for itchy or dry skin conditions affecting dogs. Conditioning may be beneficial for your dog if they scratch regularly or whimper while scratching, both of which are signs that they need it. Using a conditioner assists in replacing the natural oils found on your dog’s skin and coat, which ultimately helps to keep the skin and coat wet.
Dogs Who Are Bathed Frequently
You are not recommended to bathe your furry pal more than once every seven days. Even at this frequency, the vibrations can irritate their skin and cause their coat to dry.
If you give your frequent dog baths and use a conditioner afterward, you can assist in returning some of the moisture that is stripped away when the dog is washed.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
It is not necessary to bathe a dog frequently if the dog is in good condition, has short, smooth hair, and has no skin concerns. The majority of the time, dog owners bathe their dogs more for their own convenience than for the convenience of their canine companions. However, you should try to wash your canine companion at least once every sixty to ninety days at the very least.
Grooming Products You Can Share With Your Dog
There is no question that things designed for dogs might not be the greatest option for humans and vice versa, but if you find yourself in a bind, the following is a list of items that either you or your dog may borrow from the other:
Comb
You should probably avoid trying this one unless you want to discover that puppy fur is mixed up with your lovely hair. However, if the comb is clean, you should use it.
Hair Ties
If you do not have any doggie hair bands on hand, you may just use the ones from your own hair.
Clippers and Scissors
Some people think there is no harm in using dog clippers or scissors. It is because these products are the same for humans and dogs. However, it is better to have separate clippers and scissors for humans and dogs.
FAQs
Can I use baby conditioner on my dog?
No, you should never use baby conditioner on your dog. It is because baby conditioners are formulated for human baby skins, not dog fur.
Can I use coconut oil as a conditioner for my dog?
With your vet’s consent, yes! You can use coconut oil as a conditioner. It can add moisture to your pup’s skin and prevent dryness.
Conclusion
Try to avoid using human shampoos and conditioners on your dog’s fur/skin in any condition. If you want to enrich your dog’s coat, you may buy any specialized dog shampoo on the market.
If you have any concerns regarding the well-being of your canine friends and are considering giving them a product that was not developed with them in mind, we strongly urge you to consult with your veterinarian first.
