Jan 15 2010
Dog Bath Tips
How often your dog should be bathed is depending on breed and skin condition of your dog. If your dog is prone to skin allergies, frequent bathing will be beneficial. Ask your veterinarian if you think your dog has any skin problems. Your veterinarian can recommend how often you should bathe your dog and what kind of shampoo you should use.
Make all supplies within your reach:
Everything you need should be within your reach so that you don’t have to leave your dog in a tub while trying to get something you need. If you leave the area, your dog will probably try to jump out of the tub: this can be potentially dangerous.
Protect your dog’s ears:
Place one or two cotton balls in each ear to avoid water accidentally get in the ear canal.
Water temperature:
Water temperature should be lukewarm, not hot and not too cool.
Wetting your dog:
Soak your dog’s coat completely. Start with the hindquarters and work towards the front of your dog, head as being last. Slightly lift the face so that the water runs down the back of the head instead of into the eyes or nose.
Shampooing:
Always use a shampoo made for dogs and follow manufacturer’s directions. Choose a type of shampoo that is suitable for your coat and skin condition. Start with the hindquarters and work your way to the front of your dog. The head and face should be the last. Use a tearless shampoo for the face. Avoid shampoo to get into eyes. Make sure you work the shampoo well down into the coat and into the skin. A rubber brush can be helpful for this task.
Rinsing:
Start with the head and hand rinse the soap from the face. Continue to rinse the rest of your dog, using your free hand to knead the soap out of the coat. Rinse thoroughly because soap residue can cause a skin irritation.
Drying:
Using your hands, squeeze the excess water out of the coat. Blot the excess moisture from the coat with a towel. Remove the cotton balls from the ears and use the clean cotton balls to absorb any moisture in the ear. A blow dryer can be used on the low setting on the body, but avoid blowing into your dog’s face.
