It’s important to bathe your dog all year long, but it’s especially needed during the hot summer months. Besides cooling off your dog, specially medicated pet shampoos help kill fleas and ticks that are more prevalent during warm months.
When to Bathe Your Dog
Often owners make the mistake of bathing their dogs too often. A good rule of thumb is to bathe Fido only whenever his coat is greasy, which is usually monthly rather than weekly. Other signs may be doggie odor, which is another good reason to give him a bath, especially if you’re expecting company. During the winter months dogs can go longer without bathing.
Preparing for Your Dog’s Bath
If possible, have a family member or friend help you. Get all your supplies ready before involving your dog. Supplies should include a water source, shampoo, water for rinsing, towels for drying, sponge or washcloth, cotton balls, a comb and brush. If using a tub, have it already filled before getting your dog to prevent running water scaring him off. Remove old hairs from his coat with a comb and brush. Finally, place cotton balls in his ears to protect against ear infections.
Shampoos for Bathing Dogs
In bathing your dog always use pet shampoos and never products designed for people. Even though some human products, such as baby shampoos, are mild, there’s a two-point difference in the amount of alkalinity or acidity (pH) of the products. Using a product formulated for humans can dry out a dog’s coat. There are shampoos for maintaining pearlescent whiteness for white coats, as well as special shampoos for enhancing the shine of dark-colored and black dogs.
Tips for Shampooing
If you’re bathing your dog outside with a garden hose, first test out the water, ensuring it isn’t too cold or too hot. Next, wet your dog with a hose. After he’s thoroughly soaked, apply shampoo, starting on his back and then gently working it through the coat for roughly ten minutes. Be careful not to get soap in his mouth or face. Using a sponge or washcloth, gently clean and rinse his face. Use a soft brush for cleaning paws and between his toes on his nails. Wait the recommended time for the flea shampoo to work. Usually this takes about five minutes.
Rinsing and Drying Tips
Rinse your dog’s coat thoroughly, making sure to remove all soap. First, let your dog shake off the water. Next, dry his coat with a thick absorbent towel, trying to remove as much water as possible. Keep your dog on flooring (rather than carpeting) or a blanket until he’s dry as dogs normally like to roll in grass or carpeting following a bath.
Bathing Your Dog in the Winter
Rather than go the entire winter without a bath, bathe your dog inside. Some toy breeds can use the kitchen sink as a tub, while larger dogs can bathe in either a bathtub or shower. Lay down a non-slippery rubber bath mat to avoid your dog slipping in the tub. If you have a skittish dog, afraid of bathtub water, shower bathing, using a hand-held showerhead, will probably worker better. Also, the ability to stand on solid ground will make him feel more secure.
Most of all make sure you create an atmosphere of fun both before and during the bathing process. If your dog senses that you dread this job, he’ll most likely pick up on your negative attitude and adapt the same feelings, making it an unpleasant experience for both of you.
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