The "Beach Dog" Guide

How to Wash a Beach Dog: Getting Sand and Saltwater Out of the Coat

There is nothing better than watching your dog sprint down an Australian beach, diving into the waves. But the car ride home is a different story, and the aftermath on their coat can be disastrous.

Saltwater and fine beach sand are the ultimate enemies of a healthy dog coat.

Why Saltwater Ruins Dog Skin

When saltwater dries on your dog, it acts as a desiccant, it literally sucks the moisture right out of their skin and hair. Combine that with microscopic grains of sand rubbing against their skin like sandpaper, and you have a recipe for severe itching, hot spots, and a brittle coat.

The Post-Beach Recovery Routine

You can't just let a beach dog "air dry." You need to actively remove the salt and replace the lost moisture.

Step 1: The Fresh Water Flush Before applying any product, thoroughly rinse your dog with fresh, warm water for at least two minutes to physically flush the sand out of their undercoat.

Step 2: The Hydrating Wash Do not use a high-detergent shampoo; their skin is already dehydrated from the salt. Use our Barkmere 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner.

• The Benefit: It is made with filtered rainwater, handmade glycerine, and organic coconut oil. This low-foaming formula gently cleans away the sticky salt residue while instantly depositing moisture back into the hair shaft.

Step 3: The Tangle Spritz Saltwater leaves long-haired dogs incredibly knotty. After towel drying, spray their damp coat with the All Day Spritzer. The Lavender and Eucalyptus infused water acts as a lightweight conditioner, allowing your Slicker Brush to glide through the fur, removing the last of the stubborn sand without pulling.