How to Wash Your Dog
Washing you dog is a relatively simple process.
It probably won't be a fun event for either of you. It isn't a secret
that dogs hate getting a bath, and it may be a bit of a struggle to get
them clean. There are a few ways to make it better though.
The general rule is that you should make the bath a weekly ritual for
your dog. This reduces the stress level and will eventually condition
them to just accept it as a natural part of their life. Monitor your dog
though. If they develop a skin condition, you should speak to your vet
to see if baths should be reduced.
The actual bath isn't much of a challenge. You can get a pet bath at
most pet stores. If you don't want to make the investment, a large sink
or bath tub will do the trick. Just remember to keep the water warm, but
not hot. Don't use human bath products either.
Buy a nice bottle of shampoo from the pet store. Some pets will have
special needs in the case of skin or fur conditions. If you don't know
of such a problem, just use a basic low-chemical mix. This usually means
going light on the fragrance. They might not smell like perfume, but it
will reduce the number of allergic reactions that they may have.
During the bath, apply the shampoo and lather it throughout their fur
in a comforting manner. Just use a relaxing massage-style rub to give
them a good wash. Leave it sitting for the required amount of time. If
the bottle doesn't mention it, just leave it in for about 5 minutes
while you rinse their legs and ears well. Once the alloted time has
passed, just gently wash the shampoo out. Once it's mostly cleared, take
a soft towel and dry your dog. A hairdryer may be used, but you
shouldn't set it on hot. Only use barely warm air to prevent any
reactions on their sensitive skin. Before you are done, you should take
a q-tip or cotton ball and ensure that their ears are dry. An infection
may result if soapy water getting into their ear.
Our dog actually develops rashes really easily but we found that a
salt water bath was the best cure. Salt water is cheap, natural and
settles most skin type allergies quickly. It worked much better than
anti-biotic that the vet had prescribed.
Finally, just make sure that they have a comfortable and warm area to
rest in while they completely dry.
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