Use The Proper Shampoo

Avoid using human shampoos and soaps as these can irritate your dogs skin. The ingredients used in human soaps and shampoos are not suitable for dogs. Always use caution when trying new products on your pet and watch for signs of allergic reactions.

How Often to Bath Your Dog

How often you give your dog a bath will vary depending on the breed of dog and his coat. For example a Poodle should be bathed about every four to six weeks while a breed like the Pointer can go up to four months between baths. Some other breeds with long coats like the Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier and Norwegian Elkhound do not need to be bathed as often, because bathing tends to soften the coat. Dogs who are kept in the house most of the time can be bathed more often because they need to be kept clean.

 Items Needed

Bathing keeps your dogs coat and skin clean and healthy. Always brush your dog before giving a bath to remove the dead skin and hair and clear out the mats in long haired dogs. Gather everything you need before starting to bathe your dog. These essentials include:

* your water source (most likely the bath tub)

* shampoo

* conditioner (for long haired dogs)

* brush

* rubber tub mat

* spray hose

* sponge

* towel(s)

* and possibly a leash if needed to secure dog

Giving The Bath

Secure your dog safely with the leash giving him about a foot of slack if needed. This will depend on your dogs reaction to getting a bath. I prefer using two people to give the bath using one to hold the dog making sure he does not jump from the tub. This will help keep him from hurting himself if he tried to jump out of the tub. A rubber tub mat is also a good safety measure.

Wet your dogs coat thoroughly with warm water using the spray hose. Put a small amount of shampoo onto your hands and spread onto your dogs coat. You can do this with a sponge if you prefer, however, I like to use my hand and massage my dog while applying the shampoo and working in the lather. You can use a sponge for the ears, rectum area and pads of feet. When the coat has been thoroughly scrubbed, rinse with warm water using the spray hose.

When rinsing have your helper or yourself place your thumb over the ear openings to prevent water from getting into the ear canal. Also cover the eyes with your hand to prevent getting soap into them. If your dog is extremely dirty you may need to repeat the lather and rinse a final time. Always read the directions on the shampoo to see if repeating is necessary. Make sure you rinse thoroughly as leaving soap residue in the coat can irritate the skin.

Gently squeeze the hair on the legs, tail, ears and other parts of your dogs body to remove the excess water. Remove dog from the tub and dry with a towel. You can now let your dog run wild around the house rubbing himself dry on the furniture and carpet or use your blow drier to complete the drying process.

With practice bathing your dog can be fun for both you and your pooch. This should not be a burden and will help in bonding with your pet.

Article Source: Nancy Cope