How often you need to bathe your dog depends on various factors, including breed, size, coat type and activities. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors need to be bathed more often, while those who stay indoors typically require a bath every 2-3 months. This experience can scare your four-legged friend, but with a little knowledge and preparation, you can make it a positive one for both of you.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Preparing to Wash the Dog
Step 1. Choose a seat
If you have a very small dog, you can bathe him in the laundry area or bathroom sink. Older dogs can be washed in the shower or tub. If it's not too cold outside, you can take care of it outside.
- If you bathe your dog in a tub or sink, the bottom will become slippery when wet. To calm your dog and allow him to stay stable, place a towel on the surface of the tub or sink. You can also use a special rubber mat or non-slip adhesive pads.
- If possible, choose a confined place. The dog may become anxious or restless while bathing and try to escape. Do you use the tub? Close the door. If you wash it outdoors, be sure to do it in a fenced area so it can't escape.
Step 2. Prepare the dog for the bathroom
Brush the coat thoroughly before washing it. This is especially important if they have a thick, shaggy or double coat. Make sure you loosen any knotted or tangled locks.
- If it has ticks, it would be best to have them removed by a vet, but you can also get rid of them yourself.
- If your dog has sticky substances (such as paint, tar, pine resin) stuck to the coat, rub it with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil and leave on for 24 hours. Liquid dish soap may also work.
Step 3. Trim the dog's nails
If he needs it, do it before the bath. That way, he won't accidentally scratch you if he's fidgeting or fidgeting.
Don't cut your dog's nails too much. It happens to cut into live flesh, which can cause bleeding and infections. If you're not sure how to do this, many groomers and vets can do it at a low cost
Step 4. Get all the necessary materials
Once the washing process has begun, you need to have everything you need close at hand. You will need towels, cotton balls, dog shampoo, biscuits and a microfiber cloth or sponge. If you don't have a garden pump or hand shower, you'll need a bucket or other container for rinsing.
- Remove the cap from the shampoos and other bottles, so you don't have to do this while monitoring the wet dog.
- If your dog tends to get nervous while bathing, you may want to ask for help. Your assistant can help you keep it still while you wash it.
Step 5. Put cotton balls in the dog's ears
When they get wet, infection is possible. The cotton balls will keep the ear canal dry.
Do not push the cotton balls in too far. Secure them so they don't fall into the tub
Step 6. Remove the dog's collar
To wash the neck area, you have to remove it. If you need to keep it in place while you wash it, use a nylon one. Leather collars can shrink from wet and suffocate the dog.
Part 2 of 4: Bathing the Dog
Step 1. Set the right temperature
Just like humans, dogs are sensitive to hot water. Check the temperature before bathing him. It should be lukewarm, but not hot. Water that is too cold can make him shiver, which is especially dangerous for puppies.
If you wash it in a sink or tub, fill it so that the lukewarm water reaches the dog's knees
Step 2. Wet the dog's body with water
It is not recommended to wash his head or face, otherwise the water can get into his ears and the shampoo can cause itching in the eyes. Instead, wet it from the neck down. Make sure the coat is well soaked. This step can take some time for dogs with particularly thick coats.
- If you have a water pump or hand shower, use it to bathe your dog. Make sure the water pressure is not too high, otherwise it could scare him.
- If you use a bucket or jug to bathe your dog, be sure not to spill the water on your head.
- There are also detachable showers that you can attach to the shower head or faucet. You can find them in pet stores.
Step 3. Apply the shampoo
If your dog's coat is very thick or long, you may want to dilute the product with water in a small glass. In this way, you can get a homogeneous foam on the fur. For short-haired dogs, just pour a strip of shampoo along the body. Massage it on the mantle.
- You don't have to use a washcloth or sponge to apply the shampoo. In fact, it's best to use your hands to create the foam. This way, you can examine the dog for any unusual markings on the dog's body, such as bumps or inflammation.
- Do not apply shampoo to the dog's face or head. If the nose is dirty, use a damp cloth to gently wipe off the dirt.
- If your dog has particularly long hair, massage the shampoo in the direction of growth. This prevents it from getting knotted.
Step 4. Wash the dog's body
Massage the shampoo all over your body, excluding the head. It creates the foam on the armpits, belly, tail and groin area and paws.
Leave the shampoo on for the time indicated on the package. Some products contain mild flea repellents, and often need to be on for a certain amount of time for them to be effective
Step 5. Clean the dog's face
If it's dirty, use a damp towel to do it. Don't put it in your ears - they can get too wet and this can cause an infection.
- Some dogs suffer from a skin infection on the chin called "furunculosis", which manifests itself as pimples or red bumps. If your four-legged friend is affected, you should consult a veterinarian to find out how to properly wash the area. He may suggest a disinfectant shampoo or ointment.
- If your dog has creases on the skin of the muzzle, be sure to use a towel to clean the furrows between them.
Step 6. Rinse the dog until the water flowing from the coat is clear
It is important to remove all shampoo residue from your furry friend's coat. It can take a while to do this thoroughly, especially if the coat is thick or double. Avoiding rinsing the hair properly can cause skin irritation and pH imbalances.
Remember not to pour water on the dog's head and muzzle. If you are using a jug or a bucket for rinsing, pour the water so that it flows over your back, not towards your muzzle. Avoid spraying it on it when using a pump or hand shower
Step 7. Dry the dog
If you find a rather absorbent microfiber towel, the process will be faster. However, a classic bath towel is also enough. Lay it on the dog's back and pat it dry. Do not scrub, as this can cause knots in long-haired breeds. Remember that the dog's natural instinct will be to shake off the water, so be prepared for some sketches.
Someone could use the hair dryer. Set it to a low or cold temperature to avoid burning it. Never direct the hairdryer towards the dog's face
Step 8. Comb the dog's coat
If he has a very long or shaggy coat, you need to do it while it is wet to prevent it from becoming tangled. To make the process easier, you can use a detangling spray.
Step 9. Give the dog a biscuit
To get him to make positive associations with the bathroom, give him a treat every time you wash him. Praise him for his behavior. In this way, he will realize that it is not a time to fear, but a fun occasion that involves treats and cuddles.
If your dog is particularly nervous while bathing, you might as well give him a small treat while you wash him
Part 3 of 4: Grooming after the Bath
Step 1. Clean the dog's ears
Remove the cotton balls from the ears. You should get rid of excess earwax to prevent irritation or infection. You can use a specifically formulated product: ask your vet for advice. You can also use witch hazel, hydrogen peroxide, or a solution made up of equal parts apple cider vinegar and purified water.
- Apply ear cleaner to a cotton ball. Do not use cotton swabs: you could damage the dog's eardrums if you insert them too far inside.
- Rub the cotton ball around the inner ear. Check it to see if there is any residual earwax. Once you don't see any more, your ears will be clean. You can also use a wet cotton swab to clean the outer ear area (large, moving parts are called "fins").
- Try not to pour or spray the solution directly into the dog's ears. Many don't like it, and you need to avoid negative associations with the bathroom as much as possible.
- If your dog has hair sticking out of the ear canal, consult your vet. Some breeds can develop knots, which can lead to infections.
Step 2. Clean up accumulations of tears
Some dogs suffer from a condition called "epiphora", which occurs when there are pouring of tears on the cheeks. It is quite common among brachycephalic breeds, such as many terriers and chihuahuas. Wash these build-ups to avoid irritation or bacterial infections.
- Colloidal silver is usually recommended because it is safe to use around the eyes. It is available in the form of sprays or drops. Apply this to a cotton ball and dry the dog's eyes.
- Dabbing a few drops of coconut oil under the dog's eyes, where tear stains are observed, can help prevent skin irritation.
- Many pet stores sell tear stain cleaning products and pre-soaked tampons as well. They are easy to use. Just make sure they are hypoallergenic and do not contain an ingredient called "tylosin tartrate" - this antibiotic is not approved for use in dogs or cats.
- Some breeds, such as poodles and shih tzus, suffer from a condition called "distichiasis," meaning eyelashes grow inward rather than outward. This can cause eye irritation and excessive tearing. If you notice that your dog has frequent accumulations of tears, consult your veterinarian. This may be simply due to the shape of the head, but it's always best to be sure.
- Do not use hydrogen peroxide, apple cider vinegar, makeup removers, human eye drops, or milk of magnesia to clean your dog's eyes.
Step 3. Give the dog another biscuit
Now that he's clean, reward him again. Praise him for good behavior. Caress him and maybe play with him.
Part 4 of 4: Acquiring Good Hygienic Habits
Step 1. Avoid washing your dog too often
You usually have no reason to bathe him particularly frequently, unless he has a skin infection or an unpleasant odor. You can usually wash it once a month to keep it smelling nice. If you wash it more often, you can cause skin irritation and cause it to scratch a lot.
- Brush your dog's coat often. This will keep it clean between baths, and is also beneficial for the skin and coat.
- If your dog is suffering from a skin infection, consult your veterinarian to find out how to best wash and treat him.
Step 2. Get your dog used to the bathroom
If you have recently had this pet, it may be afraid of it. You can teach him to associate washing with positive experiences with a few simple tricks.
- If your dog is terrified of the bathroom, place him in an empty tub (or whatever other container you wash him in). For now, don't let the water run. Talk to him in a reassuring voice and give him a cookie or toy to entertain himself with. This will allow him to associate bathing with a pleasant experience.
- Gradually proceed until lukewarm water runs over your body. Whenever you bathe him, give him a small treat.
- Get your puppy used to the bathroom by washing him after he turns five weeks of age. Helping him associate washing with a pleasant experience will make it easier for him to accept the bathroom when he is older.
Step 3. Choose the right shampoo
A mild shampoo formulated for dogs is preferable. Look for a product that has a neutral pH, around 7. Avoid artificial fragrances and dyes, as they can irritate the dog's skin.
- You should never use your own shampoo to wash your dog. Its skin has a different pH than human skin, so the products you use for yourself can damage its balance. An unbalanced pH can cause a proliferation of bacteria, parasites and viruses.
- Oatmeal shampoo is a good basic choice for most dogs. If you're not sure what to use, it's a safe product to start with.
- If your dog is suffering from a skin irritation or other ailment, he will scratch often, which will further irritate the skin. Tea tree oil shampoo can be helpful for some inflammations. Avoid getting it in your mouth, as tea tree oil is toxic if ingested. Consult your vet to determine which product is best for a dog with a skin disorder.
- Some shampoos can help prevent flea infestations. Choose a product containing pyrethrin, pyretrum, or citrus essential oil.
Step 4. Don't touch your dog's anal glands unless you know how to squeeze them safely
Your four-legged friend has small glands on the back, on the sides of the anus. Some groomers offer to mash them while washing. If your vet approves and you know how to do it safely, you can give it a try at this point. If not, don't touch them.
If your dog has inflamed or irritated anal glands, consult your veterinarian
Advice
- Since you will get wet too, don't wear your favorite clothes to wash your dog. Opt for an old pair of jeans and a worn t-shirt.
- In good weather, you can wash your dog outside in a paddling pool.
- Remember not to get water or soap in your dog's nose, mouth, ears and eyes.
- Try to clean your dog's paws thoroughly to get rid of any buildup of dirt and bacteria.
- Stay away from shampoos that contain flea poisons. Flea collars are also toxic to both you and your four-legged friend. Instead, rub some food-grade diatomaceous earth onto the dry coat, and the fleas will naturally die. You can also sprinkle this product on rugs or carpets and, if you want, consume a few tablespoons yourself.
- Small dogs can be easily washed in both a sink and tub.
- Talk to your dog to calm him down.
Warnings
- If your dog develops a rash or has any other signs of an allergic reaction, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Do not dye the dog's coat. This can cause serious health problems.
