Self-care and wellness are very popular right now, and for good reason – it’s always important to take time out for ourselves and put our own needs first. But do you think your dog would like to join you?
Dog wellness routines are becoming rather trendy on social media, particularly TikTok, as more dog owners want to keep their pups happy, healthy, and free from stress with everything from the best dog shampoo to a full dog pamper session. However, dogs probably aren’t going to want exactly the same treatment as humans, as one expert explains.
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Helen Webb, a spokesperson for YuMove, the pet supplement brand, says that we don’t need to go totally overboard when it comes to canine wellness. Rather, there can actually be too much of a good thing.
“Dog wellness routines are a fun social media trend, but they arenʼt actually needed to ensure you have a relaxed and happy dog,” she says. “In fact, if youʼre doing them too regularly, they could have a negative effect as they could strip your dog of the natural oils it needs to keep its coat soft and shiny. It could also potentially leave them irritated and itchy.”
For a lot of dogs, bathing is required only when they’re muddy after a walk or if they’re starting to get too much of that all-too-familiar ‘doggy smell’.
If you are going to pamper your pup, Webb advises using a shampoo that’s been formulated for dogs, because products designed for humans could make your dog’s skin dry, itchy, or irritated, and potentially lead to scratching or dog dandruff.
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However, one thing Webb recommends trying with your dog is meditation – you might find that it helps with stress and anxiety in dogs.
“Meditating with your dog doesnʼt have to be in the traditional sense,” she says. “Just sharing a moment with them, mindful petting, and matching their breathing can help you both to relax and bond.
“Another way to practice meditation with your dog is by mindfully petting them. Petting your dog could cause you to release oxytocin, which bonds you together and lowers stress.”
There’s no need to go overboard, giving your dog the sort of spa day even most humans don’t get around to, but you might find that they benefit from a meditation session as well as the occasional bath as and when required – take a look at these 32 ways to destress your dog for more advice.
Read next: Everything I learned about grooming while running a pet health spa and how you can do it at home
