Let’s face it; bathing a dog can be quite a challenging task. Your pup may not find bathing a relaxing experience. And for a good reason. Frequently washing your dog may cause its skin to lose its natural oils, resulting in dry and itchy skin.
It’s for this reason that many people turn to baby powder to groom their pets. But is it safe to use baby powder on dogs? The short answer is yes. Baby powder is gentle on your furry friend and can keep unpleasant scents at bay. However, you have to ensure that the powder is talcum-free.
Is Baby Powder Safe for Dogs?
Baby powder should not be consumed or breathed in by dogs; however, it is otherwise very safe to use as a topical treatment.
Baby powder is good for your dog’s skin and coat[1]. Also, it can help relieve some of the itchiness caused by flea bites.
Also, choosing a baby powder free of talcum is vital to ensure it is safe to use.
Talcum has been linked with certain forms of cancer due occurring with asbestos and should not be used on dogs[2].
Also, go for unscented baby powder such as Ora’s Amazing Herbal Unscented Baby Powder.
How Does Baby Powder Kill Fleas?
Baby powder kills fleas through suffocation.
Once applied, the fine dust of the powder causes the flea to die due to the lack of air.
Unfortunately, since eggs and pupae do not require oxygen as readily, it is less effective on them.
How Do I Apply Baby Powder on My Dog?
When applying baby powder on your dog, you don’t want to use too much at a go. Instead, pour a small amount of the powder on your hands, rub them together until it fully coats your hands, and then run them through your pup’s fur coat. The amount of baby powder to use will depend on the size of your dog.
It is essential to ensure that you rub all of the baby powder into your dog’s fur coat by running your powder-coated hands through it.
If you notice that the baby powder is visible on your furry little pal’s fur coat, you may have used too much. You can remove the excess powder by running a brush through your dog’s fur or wiping it off using a damp rag.
When putting baby powder on your dog, it is recommendable to stand a few inches away from it. Doing this will help prevent the powder from accidentally entering your eyes or nose, which can be pretty uncomfortable.
It goes without saying that you should only use baby powder for topical application on your dog. You should avoid putting the powder on any other part of your dog’s body (especially the eyes, ears, and nose) except its fur coat. It is also advisable to go for an unscented baby powder to avoid the risk of your dog having an allergic reaction, causing it to have respiratory problems.
FAQ
Does lavender baby powder kill fleas?
Can baby powder help get rid of fleas?
What kind of powder will kill fleas?
Can I use lavender baby powder on my dog?