GROOMING MY ROTTWEILER

by EVETTE
(RAMAPO NY)

I WASH MY 6 MONTH OLD ROTTIE ABOUT TWICE A MONTH. HE IS KEPT OUTSIDE IN THE YARD WHERE HE HAS ACCESS TO LOTS OF GRASS AND AIR.

MY QUESTION IS HE KEEPS GETTING SCABS ON HIS BACK AND NEAR HIS REAR END COULD IT BE I'M WASHING HIM TOO MUCH, OR MAYBE USE THE WRONG SHAMPOO (HARTZ FLEA AND TICK SHAMPOO)??





Hi Evette
It sounds as though your Rottie may be suffering from 'hot spots' or allergies. It could be from the shampoo or from the grass or outdoor allergens, Rottweilers tend to be a bit vulnerable to allergic reactions.

I wouldn't advise using a Hartz medicated product on a regular basis as it's much too harsh. You'd be much better to use an oatmeal or hypoallergenic shampoo of some sort. I'd recommend that you check out my Canine Allergies page as it has tons of tips and advice on dealing with this problem, and a whole host of great products that you could try.

It's much better for Rottweilers to live inside with their family rather than outdoors. They don't do well in hot weather and are a breed that has a strong desire to be close to their 'people'. Even if he has to be outdoors a lot, bathing him twice a month is too much. If he gets really dirty then give him a bath, but otherwise he shouldn't need bathing more than once every two or three months.

Do use a good, effective flea and tick preventative on him, either Frontline Plus or Advantix is what I would recommend and make sure to keep his surroundings parasite free.

Hope this helps, best of luck with your dog.