Why and how often
A healthy dog does not need frequent baths: washing too often strips the skin's natural oils, and the skin can dry out. Bath your dog when it has rolled in mud or something smelly, or when the coat is greasy or smells unpleasant. Otherwise, brushing and wiping the paws is enough.
Use only a shampoo made for dogs: shampoos for people are made for a different skin acidity and can irritate a dog's skin. If your vet has prescribed a special shampoo, use only that one, exactly as told.
What you need
- A mild shampoo made for dogs Grooming
- A brush or comb to work through the coat before the bath Grooming
- A non-slip mat for the bottom of the bath
- Two large absorbent towels
- Treats as a reward Treats
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Step by step
- Brush before the bath Brush out loose hair and mats: wet mats shrink and get even tighter.
- Have everything ready Lay the non-slip mat down and keep the shampoo and towels within reach. Never leave your dog alone in the bath, not even for a moment.
- Wet with lukewarm water The water should be lukewarm, as for a baby. Wet the dog from the neck towards the tail, leave the head until last and keep water out of the ears and eyes.
- Massage in the shampoo Work the shampoo through the coat down to the skin, not forgetting the belly, paws and the area under the tail. Wash the head with a damp cloth, avoiding the eyes.
- Rinse thoroughly Rinse until the water no longer foams and the coat no longer feels slippery: leftover shampoo irritates the skin and causes itching.
- Dry well Squeeze the water out with your hands, wrap your dog in a towel and dry it well. In cold weather, do not go out until the coat is completely dry, and if your dog does not mind a hairdryer, use it only on a cool setting and from a distance.
When to stop and see a vet
Stop if your dog is very frightened, shaking or trying to escape: split the bath into several short sessions instead. See a vet if the skin turns red or itchy after a bath, the coat stays greasy or smells bad although the dog was bathed recently, flakes or scabs appear, or your dog scratches all the time.