What to use to clean a dog’s privates? A Step-by-Step Guide

IntroductionYour dog’s vulva is a tender part of her body. When she goes into heat, you might see discharge or blood coming from the area. She might lick a lot to clean herself, but it’s also important that you help her stay clean and sanitary during this time. You may notice her vulva swelling, especially during heat cycles. This is normal and doesn’t require any extra attention. A simple wipe or bath will often do the trick, but while she has discharge, you may also consider keeping her bedding clean and keeping her at home and isolated, especially from intact male dogs.

Her body is changing during heat cycles, and your dog might be curious. Excessive licking could cause dryness and itching. She might feel a bit off because of hormone changes. This may show in her mood.

Towel Step 1 In the bath While your dog is in the bath, use a washcloth to wipe her private areas, including her vulva to get it clean. Step 2 Face first Always start with your dogs face, so bacteria from others parts of her body do not cross to the face. Step 3 Sit in water If your dog has discharge or is in heat, sitting in the water while you wash her body and face might help remove any stains from her skin and fur. Keep the temperature comfortable. If her skin is irritated, water that is too warm may hurt. Step 4 End with vulva After your dog’s face and body have been washed, use the washcloth to wipe her vulva. Remove any dried blood or discharge. If she’s swollen, she might be sensitive, so be cautious not to rub too hard with the washcloth. Step 5 Rinse and dry Be sure to rinse any dog shampoo off her entire body to avoid dry, itchy skin. With a towel, pat her dry.

Towel Step 1 Vinegar and water Mix half and half vinegar and warm water in a small bowl. Step 2 Soft cloth Once the water and vinegar are mixed, soak a washcloth or soft cloth in the mixture, absorbing what you can into the cloth. You can squeeze excess out so the cloth is not dripping, or allow the excess to drip onto the dog’s skin. Step 3 Wipe Gently wipe the vulva from front to back. The vinegar will work on killing yeast and some bacteria. Step 4 Dry With a dry cloth, gently pat dry. Allowing the area to air dry is fine as well, but keep your dog from licking as it dries. She likely won’t enjoy the taste of vinegar. Step 5 Treat If her skin is dry and uncomfortable, or if she is not in heat but is licking too often, apply coconut oil to her skin to soothe the itch.

  • If your dog is not in heat and her vulva is showing discharge, consider seeing your veterinarian.
  • A swollen vulva is normal during a heat cycle.
  • She may be self-cleaning by licking, but excessive licking can cause dry, itchy skin which will irritate even more.
  • Dogs can develop yeast infections that can cause itching and discomfort.
  • If your little girl pup has a yeast infection or other infection in the vulva area, you may also notice an unpleasant odor.
  • Apple cider vinegar and water can help reduce yeast if your girl pup is experiencing a yeast problem.
  • If she gets yeast infections often, adding yogurt or kefir to her diet might help yeast from growing.
  • A daily vinegar and water wipe down might be necessary for the dog who has chronic yeast infections.
  • If her skin is dry and irritated from excessive licking, 100% coconut oil from your kitchen can help soothe her skin. It is okay if she licks the coconut oil off, you just may need to reapply.
  • Bathing your pup on a regular basis should also help with keeping all areas clean. Be sure to wash her face with a cloth before using it to wash her vulva and backside.
  • A Guide On How To Clean Dog Private Parts

    There are certain tips that a better for a female dog, and some that are better for male dogs, so I’ve decided to split those up into sub-sections.

    Does dog smegma go away on its own?

    Most of the time, normal smegma discharge doesn’t require special intervention. However, the buildup may dry and crust around the dog’s genital area.

    You only have to clean this at home and your dog is good to go. Unless the smegma has an infection, you can leave it alone.

    How To Properly Clean A Dog’s Vulva

    As dog owners, we’ve all experienced the grossest things imaginable for a pet owner. From diarrhea on the carpet, vomit on the couch, stinky anal glands, and more – we’ve all been there.

    But do you know how to clean dog smegma? Or do you have any idea what it is in the first place?

    In this post, I will delve into this grooming task together with all the basic facts you need to know.