Bathing Your Pet

Once your puppy begins to get used to having a bath regularly, it is then time to develop your dog-bathing techniques. Believe it or not, knowing how to bathe your dog properly, as well as determining the best technique that works for you and your pup is important in establishing your pup’s routine.

To begin, brush your dog's coat thoroughly before they get wet. You will need to remove the matted hair and work through the tangles. Once their coat becomes wet, it is very difficult to detangle their coat. Brushing your pet will also aid in the removal of loose hair in their coat. This way, you will have less hair to clean from the tub or basin, and it will aid in the shampooing process. Finally, brushing your dog's coat helps them relax. Many dogs simply love being brushed, and it will make them less anxious when you begin the wetting and washing process.

It is always helpful to have a designated dog washing spot. For smaller dogs, the kitchen or laundry room sink work just fine. If you have a larger dog, you will need to bathe them in a tub. Be sure to purchase a hair catcher to place over the drain so it will not become clogged with your pet's shed coat. If the weather is nice and warm outside, washing the dog with the garden hose may be tempting. However, the water that comes out of the water valve is often cold and unpleasant for your dog. Bathing outside may also prove to be too distracting for your pet to stay still enough to be bathed.

As far as bathing products go, do not use human shampoo. The Ph levels are much too harsh for canine skin. Instead, purchase the dog shampoo that best corresponds with your pet's coat and skin type at your local pet supply company. If you are unsure about what to choose, feel free to ask your veterinarian what brand and type will work best for your pet. Don't forget to get a tearless shampoo; this way the soap will not harm or sting your pup's eyes. Also if you want your pet's shampoo to last longer, or if you are unable to get a tearless shampoo, you can water the shampoo down (don't worry, it lathers well, and gets your dog just as clean).

To begin washing your dog, you will want to get them wet starting at their head, and moving back to their tail. This way, you are able to get the worst part out the way, and it will not surprise your dog because they can see what you are doing. In the same way, work the shampoo first from their head, then down to their tail and back legs.

Finally, dry your dog off gently. To prevent them from getting too cold, work quickly and use two towels. Keep one on their backside as you dry the front, and then move the dry towel to their head as you dry their behind.

Bathing a puppy can be a difficult task, but once they become accustomed to getting bathed regularly, you can work on your technique. One way to make bathing easier and quicker is to try the HydorSurge Rapid Dog Bath. Good luck bathing your pup!