How to give your dog the best bath
GIVE YOUR DOG THE BEST BATH
Has your dog started to smell a bit, rolled in dirt and filth during your walk, or does your puppy need to learn what it means to take a bath? In this blogpost, we will discuss how to give your dog the best bath and how to dry them properly - whether it's a fully grown dog or a young puppy.
We will help you give your four-legged friend the best bath, covering everything from brushing, washing, and drying, so you can have a clean and happy dog. It's important to keep in mind that this is just a general guide. There are several factors to consider, such as the breed of your dog, their type of coat, and how comfortable they are with water.
The requirements can vary greatly depending on the breed and fur type of each dog. Therefore, this guide will be general, and you will need to assess whether it makes sense for your particular dog. But always remember to praise your dog - especially if you have a puppy that is having their first bath. It should be a positive experience, so always make sure to have dog treats on hand.
START WITH BRUSHING YOUR DOG
If your dog is not already wet, we recommend starting by brushing them. This way, you can get rid of any tangles that water may worsen and remove any shedding hair. The severity of the situation will depend on the breed and season, of course.
In the meantime, you can fill the bathtub or sink with lukewarm water, making sure it reaches your dog's knees. You can also turn on the shower and wait until the water reaches a comfortable temperature. If you're worried about your dog slipping in the water, you can place a non-slip mat.
DOG WASHING
Now you can wash your dog either in the bathtub or under the shower. Remember to praise and encourage your dog so they feel safe and secure. Then pour water over your dog or hold the showerhead close to their coat to prevent them from getting nervous or playful due to the water stream.
Next, use a shampoo that is suitable for your dog's coat - not human shampoo. It's important to use a proper dog shampoo to ensure that you don't strip away the natural oils from their fur and to account for the difference in pH levels between dogs and humans. Additionally, human shampoos often contain perfume, which is not suitable for dogs.
Be careful with water in the ears and soap in the eyes, as it can be uncomfortable for the dog. Finally, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any soap residue.
DRYING YOUR DOG AFTER THE BATH
Drying your dog can be a wet affair for many, often resulting in water all over the bathroom. However, you can minimize the amount of water by having the right towel on hand. Start by pressing the water out of your dog's coat before taking them out of the shower or bathtub, so they bring less water onto the floor. You can also place a drying mat on the floor to prevent water spilling everywhere.
Although many people use towels, we recommend using a drying coat also called drying robe for your dog. This way, you can effectively keep your dog dry and warm, and you won't have to struggle with smelly towels since our dog robes are made with antibacterial bamboo that significantly reduces the odor of wet dogs. We also have special dog towels and gloves, if you need some extra help with drying the ears and paws. After just 15-20 minutes, the material in the Siccaro drying coat will have absorbed about 90% of the moisture from the dog's fur. Then your dog can move around the house without dripping water all over the place.
Remember to dry your dog's ears thoroughly so they are not wet. Bacteria can hide in moist ears, increasing the risk of ear infections. Praise your dog along the way and reward them with treats when bath time is over.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG HATES BATHING?
You can't avoid having to bathe your dog. So if your dog hates taking a bath, you can't just skip it because it will be necessary sooner or later. You must arm yourself with patience and teach them that water is not dangerous.
The earlier you teach your dog that water is not dangerous, the better. So try to make bath time a positive experience when your dog is a puppy. However, it can help if you bathe with your dog. This way, you can show them that it is not dangerous, and you can also make the bathtub or shower a safe place for them to be.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD A DOG BE BATHED?
Although bathing is important, it is not necessary to bathe your dog frequently. Bathing a dog too often can remove the natural oils from their coat. However, regular baths are still necessary to wash away dirt and debris from their fur. In addition to regular baths, it is also good to give an extra bath if your dog has rolled in dirt and mud.
But how often should a dog be bathed? This is a matter of personal preference and depends on the dog's activity level, your location, and the type of fur they have. As a general rule, one bath per month is sufficient for most dogs. If your dog has oily fur, bathing once a week may be necessary. Some dog breeds may require more frequent brushing and less frequent bathing.
We hope that this post has been helpful, and that you are better prepared for bath time next time, whether it's with a dog that has experienced it before or with a puppy trying it for the first time. By following these steps, you will hopefully get a dog that enjoys bath time.
