Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 4: Preparing to bathe your dog
• Part 4 of 4: Developing good bathing habits
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

How often you should bathe your dog depends on several things, such as the breed, the type of coat and what activities you do with your dog. Dogs that spend a lot of time outside need a bath more often than dogs that are always indoors, which you only have to wash a few times a year. Some dogs are scared to take a bath, but if you know what you are doing and prepare it well, it can be a pleasant experience for both you and your dog.

To step

Part 1 of 4: Preparing to bathe your dog

1. Pick a spot. If you have a small dog, you can wash it in the sink. Larger dogs can be cleaned in the shower or bath. If it is not cold outside, it can also be done in the garden or on the balcony.
   • If you bathe your dog in the bath or sink, the bottom will become slippery when wet. To soothe your dog and give him a bit more grip, you can place a towel on the bottom. You can also use a rubber anti-slip mat.
   • Pick a place that you can close off, if possible. Your dog may become frightened or upset while bathing and may try to escape. Close the bathroom door. If you bathe the dog outside, make sure it is in a fenced-in area so that the dog cannot run away.
2. Trim your dog's nails. If your dog's nails are long, trim them before taking a bath. Then he can scratch you less hard if he gets a little wild.
   • Don't cut your dog's nails too short! You can easily cut the dog's nail bed, causing it to bleed and become inflamed. If you are unsure of how to trim your dog's nails, get it done by the vet.
3. Gather all supplies. Once you start washing, you need to have everything close at hand. You will need towels, cotton wool, dog shampoo, dog treats and a washcloth or sponge. If you don't have a hose or detachable shower head, you will also need a bucket or jug ​​to rinse the dog with.
   • Remove the cap from the shampoo or other bottles, so that you no longer have to do that while you have to hold the wet dog in a hold.
   • If your dog is afraid to bathe, you may need an assistant. The dog can hold it while you bathe it.
4. Make sure the temperature is right. Dogs are just as sensitive to hot water as you. Check the water temperature before you bathe your dog. It should be warm, but not hot. If the water is too cold, your dog can get sick, which is especially dangerous for puppies.
   • If you wash it in a bathtub or tub, fill it with warm water to about knee height of your dog.
5. Give your dog a treat again. Now that he is completely clean, you can give him a treat. Praise him for being such a good dog. Give him a pet and go play with him.

Part 4 of 4: Developing good bathing habits

1. Don't wash your dog too often. There is no reason to bathe your dog unless he smells or has an infection on his skin. Usually, washing once a month is enough to keep your dog smelling good. Bathing him more often than that can irritate his skin and cause him to scratch a lot.
   • Brush his coat regularly. That helps keep him clean in between washes and is good for his skin and coat.
   • If your dog has an infection on his skin, see the vet to determine the best way to wash and treat him.
2. Choose the right shampoo. A mild shampoo specially developed for dogs is best. Look for a shampoo that is pH neutral, around pH7. Avoid shampoo with artificial fragrances and colors as it can irritate your dog's skin.
   • Never use human shampoo on your dog. Dogs have a different pH balance than humans, and using regular shampoo can upset that balance. And a disturbed pH balance makes bacteria, parasites and viruses on the skin more likely to develop.
   • Havershampoo is a good choice for most dogs. If you're not sure what to use, this is a safe shampoo to start with.
   • If your dog has a rash or other condition, he will scratch often, which will further irritate the skin. Tea tree shampoo can work well for skin irritations. Just be careful not to get this shampoo in his mouth as tea tree oil is poisonous if swallowed. Ask your vet about the best shampoo to use if your dog has a skin condition.
   • Some shampoos can help against fleas. Look for a shampoo with pyrethrin or citrus oil.
3. Stay away from your dog's anal glands unless you know how to express them safely. Your dog has two small pockets on his buttocks, at the edge of the anus. Some dog groomers squeeze out those glands when they clean the dog. If your vet agrees, and if you know how to do it safely, you can try it now. Otherwise, just stay away from it.
   • If your dog's glands are irritated or inflamed, see a vet.

Tips

• Talk to your dog to make him feel comfortable.
• If it is warm outside, you can also wash your dog in a children's pool.
• You will get wet yourself too! Don't wear your favorite outfit when you bathe your dog. Put on old pants and an old shirt.
• Make sure you rinse the shampoo well. If left on it can irritate the skin.
• Try to clean the legs well so that there are no more dirt or bacteria on them.
• Do not use shampoo with flea poison in it. A flea collar is also toxic to you and your four-legged friend. Instead, rub diatomaceous earth through his coat when it's dry, then the fleas will die naturally. You can also sprinkle it on your carpet or take a few tablespoons yourself.
• Be careful not to get soap and water in your dog's nose, mouth, ears and eyes.
• Small dogs can easily be washed in the sink or in the bathtub.

Warnings

• If your dog develops a rash or irritation, see your vet immediately.
• Do not paint your dog's coat. This can have serious consequences for his health.

Necessities

• A bath or sink
• Towels
• Shampoo for dogs
• Water
• Sponge or washcloth
• Bucket or pitcher, or a detachable shower head
• Wimps
• A brush