Fairy Liquid is a popular household dishwashing detergent most commonly found in the U.K. While it might be good at washing dishes, it’s not something you should use to wash your dog. Fairy liquid contains a number of chemical compounds which although designed to remove grease and grime from dishes can have some negative effects on your dog’s fur and skin.
Using fairy liquid to wash dogs is not safe or recommended, it can cause skin irritation, dryness, and other health issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Fairy Liquid to Wash Your Dog
Fairy liquid is packed with chemical compounds designed for stripping grease and grime, but the problem is that these chemicals can actually strip natural oils and irritate your dog’s skin. There’s a reason why certain shampoos are specially formulated for dogs, it’s because their skin and fur have special requirements.
These ingredients that can have negative effects are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, and a couple of other lesser cleaning agents. Let’s have a closer look at these individual ingredients and how they can leave negative effects.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) And Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are chemicals used in cleaning products to remove dirt and grease. However, they can harm a dog’s skin by taking away the natural oils and making it dry and itchy. You can read a short guide here about SLS and SLES that explains in the detail the problem with using any form of soap or shampoo containing these compounds on your dog
Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Capb)
Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is a mild chemical used in shampoos and body washes that is less harmful than SLS and SLES. But, some dogs can still have an allergic reaction or skin irritation from it. Here you can read an article about a class action lawsuit regarding a pet shampoo company that used it in their products.
Ingestion of Fairy Liquid Can Also Be Harmful to Dogs
If dogs eat detergent, it can make them sick and cause vomiting and diarrhea. If they eat a lot of it, it can even lead to more serious health problems. That’s why it’s important to keep cleaning products away from pets. When it comes to the ingestion of fairy liquid is really depends on the amount consumed. Fairy liquid isn’t something dogs will happily eat or liquid due to the bitter taste. If you are worried about your dog consuming fairy liquid you should contact your local veterinarian for some advice.
Other Issues
Fairy Liquid has other ingredients like preservatives, fragrances, and colorants that are safe for cleaning but may not be safe for dogs. Dogs have a more sensitive sense of smell than humans, so strong smells can make them uncomfortable or cause breathing problems. In general, anything that’s fragrant and has a strong smell can make your dog feel overwhelmed and uncomfortable.
Importance of Choosing the Right Shampoo for Your Dog
Choosing the right shampoo is surprisingly important for your dog. This is because the wrong shampoo can cause significant irritation and other health issues. A good dog shampoo should contain gentle ingredients and be free from harsh chemicals that can strip away the natural oils from your dog’s skin. It can also lead to dryness and itchiness. It should also be pH-balanced to match the dog’s skin and coat to avoid further damage.
Signs of Skin Irritation or Allergies
It is important for dog owners to be aware of the signs of skin irritation or allergies in their pets. These signs may include excessive scratching, licking or chewing of the skin, redness, bumps, rashes, hot spots, or a foul odor coming from the skin. Allergies can be caused by many different things, such as certain foods, environmental factors like pollen, or exposure to certain chemicals in shampoos or detergents. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Alternatives to Fairy Liquid
There are different types of shampoos that you can use to bathe your dog. Some shampoos are specifically made for dogs and are gentle on their skin and coat. Hypoallergenic shampoos are good if your dog is prone to allergies or has sensitive skin. Natural shampoos use ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil and are free from chemicals that can irritate your dog’s skin. If you want to make your own dog shampoo, you can use ingredients like apple cider vinegar or baking soda, but be sure to research what’s safe for your dog’s skin.
Summary
In summary, while Fairy Liquid may be effective at cleaning dishes, it is not recommended for use on dogs. The harsh surfactants in the detergent can strip away the natural oils on a dog’s skin and coat, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, ingestion of the detergent can be harmful to dogs. It is always best to use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs when washing them, as these shampoos are formulated with ingredients that are safe and gentle for a dog’s skin and coat.
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) at Nation Taiwan University,Master of Science (M.S.) in Biomedical Engineering at National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
