Our number one criterion for how we care for our pets should be, "Is this what they actually need? How is it impacting them?" rather than, "What do I want?" For example, we have encountered many dog owners who bathe their dogs religiously multiple times a week because they want to avoid the 'doggy' smell, but veterinary dermatologists warn against such practices, as they are not good for a dog's skin. If someone is really concerned about their dog's smell they can use waterless shampoo and thoroughly brush their dog every day but keep the baths down to once or twice a week at most. Unless they have a skin condition for which a vet has prescribed medicated baths, most dogs don't need to be bathed on a regular basis. Even dogs with thick, heavy coats generally only need baths every 6 to 8 weeks.